You need to get your chimney cleaned out at least once a year.
The cold temperatures are here to stay and will only get even colder. Sitting around a warm fire with all of your loved ones is one of the best ways to stay cozy this season. Before you start lighting nightly fires to stay warm and save on your energy costs, it is vital that you get your chimney cleaned out.
Hiring a professional to clean out your chimney is the best way to ensure your safety this season. A chimney sweep will do much more than just remove the dust and soot that is stuck in your fireplace. They will also clean off creosote, which is an oily, sticky substance that is created when wood burns. As time passes, the creosote on the sides of your chimney build up, which can easily allow a fire to start.
When you hire a professional, they will also take the time to thoroughly inspect your chimney and fireplace. They will look at the flue and walls of your chimney and clean out any debris that they find, such as bird nests or leaves. A clogged chimney cannot only start a dangerous fire, but it can also cause deadly carbon monoxide to back up into your house.
After getting your chimney cleaned out, there are some basic fire safety tips that you should follow all season long, including:
- Use smaller logs in your fireplace. Smaller fires will produce less creosote and smoke.
- Place logs in the back of your fireplace on a metal grate.
- Never use flammable liquids to start your fire, only use kindling.
Having the right homeowners insurance coverage will help to ensure that you are protected in case of any issue with your fireplace this season. Contact Gee Schussler Insurance Agency in Orland Park, Illinois for all of your home insurance needs.
