Spending time together in front of a roaring fire is the cornerstone of the holidays for many families. However, before the hustle and bustle of the holiday season begins, make sure your fireplace and chimney are ready to use; schedule a chimney sweeping with a CSIA certified chimney sweep! Doing this will keep your fireplace burning safely and efficiently this holiday season – and for the rest of the winter.
How often should my chimney be swept?
The Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) recommends that all homeowners have their chimneys swept at least once per year. Whether you use your fireplace only a few times each winter or on a near daily basis, an annual sweeping is one of the most important ways to keep your fireplace burning safely.
In addition to an annual sweeping, the CSIA also recommends that chimneys “be inspected at least once a year for soundness, freedom from deposits, and correct clearances.” An inspection by a certified chimney sweep ensures that in addition to removing soot, ash, and creosote, there are no other areas of damage or deterioration in the chimney.
The importance of regular chimney maintenance.
Having regular chimney maintenance done is especially important before heavy use periods, such as the winter burning season.
“A chimney inspection is like an annual dental check-up,” says Ashley Eldridge, Director of Education for the CSIA. “It’s preventative maintenance that helps minimize potential hazards.”
Chimney sweeping before the holidays significantly reduces chimney fire risk. The accidental ignition of buildup of flammable creosote in the flue is the leading cause of accidental chimney fire; removing creosote, as well as soot and ash, during a chimney sweeping can significantly reduce the risk of chimney fire.
The importance of using a certified chimney sweep.
Remember, not every person with a truck and a brush is a certified chimney sweep! Before hiring someone to work on your chimney, it is important to make sure they are a “real” certified chimney sweep. Sweeps certified by the CSIA carry laminated credentials that include a photo, identification number, and expiration; likewise, the CSIA database of certified sweeps lists all credentials.
If you are in Shelby County, trust the experts at Coopertown Services to care for your chimney system. Since 1977 our licensed, bonded, and insured CSIA certified chimney sweeps have been servicing chimneys in the local community. Our years of experience, education, and certifications ensure we can care for all of your fireplace and chimney needs – from the bottom of the firebox to the top of the flue!
Have your fireplace and chimney swept before the holidays arrive to ensure their safety. Do you live in the Shelby County area? If so, contact Coopertown Services today to schedule your next chimney sweeping or inspection with one of our certified chimney sweeps.