Signs You Need a Chimney Cleaning

According to the Chimney Safety Institute of America, most chimney fires are caused by a dirty chimney, so it’s crucial to your safety that you stay up to date on cleaning and maintenance. However, how do you know when your chimney needs a thorough cleaning? Let’s take a look.

Fireplace Inefficiency

People use fireplaces to warm their homes and create a relaxing atmosphere, so it’s frustrating when it becomes difficult to start and keep a fire going or not getting adequate heat. While a fireplace and chimney system seems simple, it requires a perfect balance of airflow and oxygen to maximize efficiency. Blockages in the flue, either from creosote buildup, debris, or critter nests, block airflow, making it a challenge to keep your fire going strong.

Back Puffing

Back puffing happens when the smoke that goes up the chimney flows back into your home and is another sign that you have a chimney blockage. Back puffing isn’t just annoying, it can be dangerous, as toxic carbon monoxide gas can quickly fill the room without your knowledge. If smoke flows back into the house, or you feel the effects of carbon monoxide poisoning when using your fireplace, it’s a sure sign that your chimney needs a good cleaning.

Creosote Buildup

If you burn wood in your fireplace as a fuel source, you must pay attention to creosote buildup in the flue. Creosote is a byproduct of wood-burning fires and coats the chimney’s interior lining with a sticky substance that’s highly flammable. What many homeowners are unaware of is that it doesn’t take much creosote buildup to become dangerous. Again, the Chimney Safety Institute of America states that a 1/8 inch buildup is enough to cause a chimney fire. Signs that you have a creosote problem include, reduced fireplace drafting, less ash and more wood left after burning, black soot or flakes around the fireplace, and unusually dark smoke coming from the chimney.

Bird or Rodent Activity

As mentioned, it’s common for birds and rodents to get into your chimney and make their nests, causing blockages. If you notice bird activity on the roof or around your chimney, unusual odors, or droppings, it probably means you have an infestation.

Chimney Cleaning Frequency

As we’ve seen, a dirty chimney is a dangerous chimney, so keeping it clean must be high on your household chore to-do list. The National Fire Protection Association recommends yearly chimney sweeping and inspection by a qualified professional. Hiring a certified professional for regular cleaning also gives you the opportunity to identify issues like cracked masonry materials that could compromise your chimney’s structural integrity. Detecting and resolving these problems early prevents more expensive repairs down the road.

About Fire N’ Stone

We’re a full service, family-owned and operated stove shop, custom stone and chimney business located in Central New Hampshire with over 13 years of experience. Our technicians are highly trained, fully insured and certified, and we use the highest quality products to provide results that last. Whether you need routine chimney cleaning and maintenance, fireplace or stove installation, or custom stone installation, you can count on us.

Please don’t hesitate to visit our 3,400 square foot showroom at 539 Laconia Rd, Tilton, NH, or call us at 603-293-4040 for more information or to book an appointment.