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Have questions about chimney cleaning, repairs, or maintenance? We've compiled answers to some common questions our customers ask. Can't find what you're looking for? Contact us directly - we're here to help.
When gas, wood, and oil burn in vented heating systems, the dangerous fumes produced – including carbon monoxide – are released into the chimney through a connector pipe. Funneling these fumes out of the living area is the primary purpose of the chimney.
In addition to carrying off toxic gases and smoke, chimneys also create draft (flow of air) that provides the proper air to fuel mixture for efficient heating appliance operation.
Unfortunately, many chimneys in daily use in homes throughout the country are either improperly sized or have conditions that prevent them from performing their intended function. These conditions may include:
Keeping up with inspections, maintenance, and cleanings can help ensure that your chimney operates as it should, so you can enjoy a safer home. This is why it's necessary to have your chimney serviced annually.
The answer is air pressure! When you have a fire going in the fireplace, the fireplace exhausts household air, creating negative pressure. To equalize the pressure, the home will draw air down through the unused flue (connected to your basement fireplace), bringing in smoke through the fireplace.
So what’s the solution? Some possible solutions to this include the installation of a top mount damper on the fireplace that’s least used or the installation of a chimney fan, which can work to pull smoke and carbon monoxide up and out of the home when there isn’t enough makeup air.
Most fireplace odors are the result of creosote deposits in the chimney. Creosote is a natural byproduct of wood burning, but when the humidity is high in the summer months, the odor can really become noticeable.
One thing you can do is have your chimney cleaned, but you may also want to invest in a top sealing damper. This can prevent the downdrafts that carry the smell of creosote down through the chimney and into your home. Some people have also found it helpful to put a little kitty litter or baking soda in the fireplace.
A smoky fireplace is often caused by a cold flue, blocked chimney, or insufficient airflow. Start by opening a window slightly to improve air circulation, and warm the flue before lighting a fire by holding a lit piece of newspaper near the damper. Make sure your damper is fully open, and have your chimney inspected and cleaned by a professional to rule out blockages or buildup.
Yes! Gas is a clean burning fuel, but that does’t mean the chimney never needs to be checked! You’ll still want to have the chimney that vents your gas appliance regularly inspected for bird nests, blockages, and damage.
The National Fire Protection Association’s answer: “Chimneys, fireplaces, and vents shall be inspected at least once a year for soundness, freedom from deposits, and correct clearances. Cleaning, maintenance, and repairs shall be done if necessary.”
The Chimney Safety Institute of America’s answer: “Open masonry fireplaces should be cleaned at 1/4” of sooty buildup, and sooner if there is any glaze present in the system. Factory-built fireplaces should be cleaned when any appreciable buildup occurs. This is considered to be enough fuel buildup to cause a chimney fire capable of damaging the chimney or spreading to the home.”
Whether you use your chimney or not, whether you burn gas, oil, wood, or coal, make sure to have your chimney inspected every year, and a professional will let you know whether or not it’s time for a cleaning.
We're here to answer your questions, whether it's about how your fireplace is functioning, what type of services we offer, or what our mission is as a company. Don't hesitate to reach out. We've got your back.
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