Is your chimney reaching it’s maximum potential? How do you know? Never fear, because Coopertown Services is here to help you with all of your fireplace needs. The Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) certifies them so you know you are getting the best of the best.
Other than annual cleaning and inspection, there are simple ways to keep your heating system working at top efficiency.
When you call the technician will probably ask when you had your last chimney sweep and maintenance inspection administered. This is important because both are supposed to be done every year, and if you switch homes or have serious work done you need a higher level of inspection. During a chimney sweep they will come to your home and lay tarps or floor covering around your chimney and furniture to protect the surroundings, and then begin to use brushes to break loose and remove anything that may have built up inside the structure, such as animal nests or droppings, trees and leaves, or creosotes. They will then inspect the outside of the chimney to make sure there are no cracks or missing bricks because if so water can collect and become a breeding ground for mold.
Earlier creosotes were mentioned. These are particles that are built up in the chimney from bad wood that is burned. If enough build up they can cause draft problems, which could lead to smoke staying in your home and causing you and your family serious health risks. So, how does one pick the best wood for burning in their home? Chances are if you smell that “wood smell” that you love so much, it’s probably bad. Make sure any wood that you use is dry, because otherwise you will not only have trouble lighting it, but when lit it will produce more smoke, then causing more creosote. Some tricks for telling if wood is dry or not is if it is lightweight, cracked at the ends, and hollow sounding if hit together. However, the wood you choose is only as good as its counterpart, so make sure you have good kindling to add to the fire as will.
When having maintenance done on your chimney, hire a professional. While many household chores are DIY, the ones that involve fire should be handled in a more professional manner. In addition to the threat of fire, there is also carbon monoxide and the structural integrity of your home to worry about. Take this off your mind and call a certified sweep from Coopertown today.