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When you burn wood in a fireplace or other wood burning appliance, creosote and soot tend to build up in the chimney. If these materials are not frequently removed, your warming fire could end up burning your house down. According to most chimney sweeps, including the staff at Charlie’s Chimney Sweeps and Masonry in New Richmond, OH, you should have your chimney inspected annually to note any dangerous buildup and locate any damage to your chimney’s structure that could result in a house fire.

Most homeowners will usually have a chimney sweep performed following an inspection. This is incredibly important if you require a chimney to keep your home warm during the colder months, as even a small amount of creosote can result in a house fire. Other items that should be cleaned during your chimney sweep include the fireplace, stove, furnace, and any other heating appliance systems. Neglecting any areas where creosote could build up is dangerous and could result in more expensive repairs later on.

Even homeowners who only use their fireplace or stove a few times a year should call their local chimney service to perform an inspection. They will then be able to advise you on whether or not you require a chimney sweep as well. Moderate to heavy users, on the other hand, might actually require more than one cleaning a year.

chimney sweepThe initial cleaning should take place before you begin using your chimney for the season. This will allow the chimney service to not only remove past creosote, but also remove any animals that may have been nesting in your chimney in the off-season. Leaving them there could create a blockage and make it difficult for the toxic gasses to leave you home, creating dangerous conditions for carbon monoxide poisoning.

Additional cleanings are recommended as you proceed using your fireplace and chimney. These should be performed anytime there is at least 1/8-inch of soot and/or whenever glaze is noticed on the flue. Ignoring both of these warning signs is the fastest way to allow a chimney fire to start that could spread throughout your entire home.

If you plan on using your fireplace or other heating appliance and chimney this winter, don’t neglect a chimney sweep. For chimney cleanings and inspections in the New Richmond area, contact Charlie’s Chimney Sweeps and Masonry. Schedule an appointment by calling (513) 553-0229. You can also learn more about their services by visiting them online and on Facebook.

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