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Chimney Cleaning
Chimney CleaningChimney Inspection:We offer visual and Level II(camera) inspections which we recommend be performed annually as a proactive measure against a potential fire hazard. A thorough examination of the chimney and fireplace and all of it's components will help insure that any damage or deterioration is discovered and evaluated. Further recommendations will then be made on correcting any deficiencies found. Failing to maintain your fireplace or wood stove properly can lead to a chimney fire.Chimney sweep:During the inspection, if it is found that the flue has a buildup, it will require a chimney sweep. If your chimney is not regularly swept it can develop a heavy build up of creosote which is a highly combustible material that can ignite and cause a fire in the flue. When we sweep a chimney/fireplace we use wire brushes(or poly brushes for metal liners)with connector rods that attach to get the entire flue clean. There are several sizes & shapes of brushes to fit the many different sized flues(clay tile and metal liner). We lay down tarps to protect your carpet.During the cleaning process we have our Soot Sweeper turned on to ensure that all dust and soot is contained in the machine. It then returns clean, filtered air back into the room. The Soot Sweeper is not designed for vacuuming ashes or debris, which can cause damage to the filter.We have an array of smaller hand held brushes(wire and poly bristle) for cleaning the smoke chamber,firebox and damper areas.
Chimney Fire Facts![]() Failing to maintain your woodstove or fireplace properly can lead to a chimney fire. Chimney fires occur when combustible deposits on the inner walls of the chimney ignite. These combustible deposits, called "creosote," are a natural byproduct of woodburning. A fire hazard exists if 1/4 inch of creosote (or more) coats the inner walls of the chimney.Prevention:Chimney fires do not occur in clean, intact, properly installed chimneys. Have a professional chimney sweep clean and inspect your appliance at least once a year. More frequent cleanings may be required, based on the type of wood burned, the type of appliance, and the frequency of use. In general, an older, uncertified woodstove, or any appliance that is used frequently, will require more than one cleaning per year.Detection:The first indication of a chimney fire is usually the noise—a roaring sound that grows louder as the fire’s intensity increases. Clouds of black smoke and sparks will be seen exiting the top of the chimney; in severe fires, flames can extend several feet above the chimney.![]() Action:In case of a chimney fire, follow these steps:
2. Alert others in the house to evacuate. 3. Close the appliance’s dampers and/or the primary air inlet controls, limiting the fire’s air supply and reducing its intensity. If there is a barometric damper in the chimney connector, plug or close the opening in the barometric damper. 4. Open the appliance door just enough to insert the nozzle of a 10 lb. dry chemical fire extinguisher rated for Class ABC fires. Discharge the entire content of the extinguisher into the appliance and shut the door. 5. If possible, wet down the roof and other outside combustibles to prevent fires ignited by shooting sparks and flames. 6. Closely monitor all combustible surfaces near the chimney. During severe chimney fires, these surfaces can become hot enough to ignite. 7. Contact your insurance carrier. | ||