Schedule your inspection now before the rush

As the colder months approach, it’s natural to start thinking about cozying up by the fireplace with your family. But before you strike that match and light your first fire of the season, there’s a crucial home maintenance task that you shouldn’t overlook: your chimney.

Many homeowners hold a mistaken belief:

Chimney inspections and repairs can wait until visible problems occur.

But the truth is—waiting for visible signs of damage or malfunction could put your home and family at risk. Hidden issues often develop out of sight, leading to dangerous situations if not addressed early on. Regular chimney maintenance isn’t just about keeping your home warm; it’s about safeguarding your home, health, and wallet.

Unlike other parts of your home, a chimney is an enclosed structure, which makes it easy to overlook potential problems until they escalate. Often, damage starts small but grows progressively worse over time. By the time you see visible signs, the damage may have already led to unsafe conditions. Here are some of the risks you may face by delaying a professional inspection:

Chimney Fires:

One of the biggest hazards of a neglected chimney is the risk of fire. Over time, a substance called creosote builds up on the inner walls of your chimney. This highly flammable material can ignite and cause a devastating fire that spreads quickly through your home. Even a small chimney fire can cause structural damage, and in severe cases, affect the surrounding walls and floors in and around the chimney.

Carbon Monoxide Poisoning:

Cracks, blockages, or deteriorating mortar in your chimney can prevent toxic gases like carbon monoxide from venting properly. When this odorless, colorless gas is unable to escape your home, it can cause serious health problems and even be fatal. Carbon monoxide poisoning is particularly dangerous because it often goes unnoticed until it’s too late. Regular inspections can catch these issues early, preventing life-threatening situations.

Water Damage and Structural Deterioration:

Your chimney is exposed to the elements year-round, and moisture is its biggest enemy. If left unchecked, water can seep into small cracks in the chimney, causing brick and mortar to deteriorate. Over time, this can lead to extensive damage not only to the chimney itself but also to your home’s interior walls and ceilings. The result? Costly repairs that could have been easily avoided with regular maintenance.

Animal Infestations:

Small animals, such as birds and squirrels, often find chimneys an ideal place to build nests. While these nests might seem harmless, they can cause serious blockages, which prevent smoke and toxic gases from escaping your home. Additionally, these animals can bring diseases and pests, creating an unhealthy environment for your family. Regular inspections can ensure that your chimney is clear of any obstructions.

Benefits of Regular Chimney Maintenance

Regular chimney maintenance isn’t just about avoiding disasters; it’s about enhancing your home’s safety, efficiency, and longevity. Here’s why it’s so important:

Catch Small Issues Early:

Routine chimney inspections allow you to identify minor issues before they become major (and more expensive) problems. Whether it’s small cracks, debris build-up, or early signs of water damage, addressing these issues early will save you from costly repairs in the future.

Ensure Proper Ventilation:

A well-maintained chimney ensures that harmful gases like carbon monoxide are properly vented out of your home. This ventilation is critical to maintaining healthy air quality indoors.

Improve Heating Efficiency:

If your chimney is blocked or damaged, your fireplace or heating system may not work efficiently. Proper airflow is essential to keeping your home warm without excessive energy use. By maintaining your chimney, you can lower your energy costs and improve your home’s overall efficiency.

Prolong the Life of Your Chimney:

Regular inspections and cleanings help extend the life of your chimney. Without proper care, minor issues like moisture exposure or creosote build-up can lead to premature wear and tear, requiring a costly overhaul or even replacement of the entire structure.

Stay in Compliance with Homeowners Insurance:

In some cases, insurance companies may require proof of regular chimney inspections and maintenance to provide coverage in the event of damage caused by a chimney fire or other related issues. Staying on top of your chimney’s upkeep ensures that you remain in good standing with your insurer.

Signs Your Chimney Needs Immediate Attention:

While annual inspections are the best way to ensure your chimney is functioning properly, there are a few warning signs that may indicate your chimney requires immediate attention. If you notice any of the following, contact a professional right away:

• Visible cracks in the chimney or surrounding masonry
• Excessive creosote buildup inside the fireplace
• A strong, unpleasant odor coming from the chimney
• Water stains on the walls or ceiling near the chimney
• Smoke filling the room or trouble starting a fire

These symptoms often point to underlying issues that could pose serious risks to your home and health if left unaddressed.

Protect Your Home Today!

At Best Chimney, we understand the importance of maintaining a safe and efficient chimney. Don’t wait for visible problems to arise—schedule your inspection today and enjoy peace of mind knowing your home is safe, warm, and energy-efficient.

P.S. Have any questions about chimney maintenance? Our experts are here to help. We’re just a phone call or email away!

The post The Hidden Dangers of Delaying Chimney Maintenance appeared first on Boston's Best Chimney.

Life in historic Hartford, along the majestic Connecticut River, memorialized by the legendary writer Mark Twain, is a tale of two worlds: The bustling city center with urban amenities and a sprawling suburban landscape with panoramic views of nature’s bounty. But when the seasonal colors of fall begin to disappear, everyone knows it is a sign that winter is near. Many folks here in Central CT prefer the warm and cozy ambiance of a wood-burning fireplace and stove during the colder months. However, it’s crucial to prioritize chimney safety to ensure a safe and comfortable heating season.

Celebrating Fire Prevention Week in Hartford County, CT

To stress the importance of chimney safety, Northeastern Chimney is proud to participate in Fire Prevention Week alongside the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA), a leading authority in chimney safety, and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). Our goal is to educate homeowners about the importance of regular chimney inspections, sweeping, and repairs.  

Take a few easy steps to observe this year’s Fire Prevention Week theme: “Smoke Alarms: Make Them Work For You!” Take a walk around your home to ensure that each bedroom has a working smoke detector installed! Install or replace any missing or damaged smoke detectors. Make sure you are testing smoke detectors monthly and replacing them at least every ten years. 

About The Chimney Safety Institute of America

The CSIA-certified chimney Sweep credential ensures that a technician has successfully passed a thorough training program, demonstrating their expertise in chimney and venting systems. To maintain their credential, a CSIA-certified sweep must also adhere to a strict code of ethics and complete a current training program every two years. 

The Importance of Chimney Safety

Why is chimney safety so important? Unfortunately, chimney fires are more common than you might think. Local fire departments across Greater Hartford respond to hundreds of fires each year. Just recently, a Southington homeowner was surprised when a lightning strike set the chimney on fire. Fortunately, the resident evacuated safely, but the blaze caused significant property damage. As certified chimney professionals, our number one priority is to help owners prevent chimney fires with a thorough cleaning to remove flammable creosote buildup. 

Tips for Preventing Chimney Fires

At Northeastern Chimney, we are committed to providing expert chimney inspections, cleaning services, and repairs to homeowners in Hartford, CT. Our CSIA-certified technicians have the knowledge and experience to assess the condition of your chimney, ensure heating appliances are installed properly, and make any necessary repairs and replacements to bring your venting system up to code. 

• Regular Inspections: Schedule annual chimney inspections to identify and repair minor problems before they become severe.
• Proper Cleaning: Ensure your chimney is cleaned regularly to remove creosote buildup, a fire hazard.
• Correct Installation: To ensure the correct and safe installation of your fireplace or stove, only use a CSIA-certified professional.
• Quality Fuel: Use seasoned wood to minimize creosote deposits.
• Smoke Detector Maintenance: Install and maintain working smoke detectors throughout your home, including near the fireplace or stove.

Remember: Chimney safety is a year-round responsibility. Regular inspections and maintenance are essential for preventing fires and ensuring the longevity of your chimney system. You can enjoy a safer and more comfortable heating season with annual chimney inspections and cleaning by a CSIA-certified chimney sweep.

Hartford Chimney Sweep Services

Don’t let a chimney fire ruin your winter! Northeastern chimney is committed to providing expert chimney inspections and cleaning services. Our certified technicians have the knowledge and experience to ensure your chimney is safe, efficient, and structurally sound. Contact us to schedule an appointment with a Certified Chimney Sweep® . Homeowners in Canton, Granby, Simsbury, Windsor Locks, and Greater Hartford, CT, trust us for safe, reliable, and efficient service.

The post Fire Prevention Week 2024 | Smoke Alarm Safety appeared first on .

This post first appeared on https://www.mychimney.com

When a chimney sweep is dealing with ashes, soot, burned logs, and possibly old chimney parts, it is impossible for them not to make a mess. So, if you have been wondering if a chimney sweep makes a mess, they do.

While this is the case, you should note that a skilled chimney sweep should carefully set up a drop cloth or plastic to protect your property and a twin HEPA filter vacuum to keep dust levels low.

They will either start at the flue and up the chimney, start on the roof and work their way down, or do both.

Regardless, the vacuum should run the entire time to keep your home’s air and floor clean.

The sole goal of a reputable chimney cleaning professional is to scrape all of the coating that has accumulated from fires off the chimney lining so that it falls down the chimney. They then carefully vacuum and sweep it away before leaving.

How often should you clean your chimney?

The National Fire Protection Association recommends annual chimney cleaning or inspections. The tasks should be undertaken by a professional chimney service provider accredited by the Chimney Safety Institute of America.

The fireplace chimney and furnace system are pretty complex, and an inspection can detect a possible problem before it becomes a costly repair or a safety hazard.

How do you prepare for the chimney sweep?

It’s always wise to ensure that your fireplace is easily accessible. Move any furniture and decorations out of the way and cover them just in case.

Ensure that access to the fireplace and chimney is unobstructed so that the chimney sweep can do their work.

Chimney sweeps are concerned with your safety inside your house. If you have questions about your fireplace, fireplace safety, brickwork, or the entire chimney service, now is the time to ask.

The quality of their customer service throughout this visit should leave you feeling satisfied with the work and safe to burn a fire.

How does the chimney sweep clean the chimney?

A chimney sweep cleans chimneys, smoke ducts, fireplaces, and flue pipes to minimize gas emissions and soot fires. A chimney sweep also has knowledge and abilities in fire prevention and follows specific standards and procedures to ensure a complete and professional service.

They educate homeowners on proper burning procedures to prevent fires and clean from the bottom up, including the firebox, smoke chamber damper, smoke shelf, and flue liner.

The entire chimney service process can take 20 to 45 minutes, depending on whether the homeowner prepped the area before arrival and whether any fire safety concerns surface in their home. A routine chimney cleaning should take about an hour.

How do you hire the right chimney cleaning professional?

To hire the right contractor for your chimney cleaning tasks, you shouldn’t hire just any contractor. You should take your time and find a reputable professional to help you get the work done.

Some of the things you should do to ensure that this happens include:

Ensure the contractor is regulated

The Certified Sweep Institute of America (CSIA) provides a national training standard for chimney sweeps. You want a CSIA-registered chimney sweep to execute the services for your property.

When hiring, get proof of certification from the guy executing the task. Sometimes, only the proprietor of a sweeping company is CSIA-certified, and he or she will dispatch professionals who have not completed the training or obtained the certification.

Don’t accept an unregulated technician working on your chimney, as they might cause problems. Even if you work with a regulated company, ensure that the individual technicians sent to your property also have the certification. Don’t put your life at risk, and always ask for the certification.

Verify the NCSG membership.

A chimney sweep who belongs to the National Chimney Sweep Guild (NCSG) exhibits a commitment to knowledge and professionalism. An NCSG membership is not a certification, but it does demonstrate that the company is prepared to stay on the cutting edge of the industry, including being aware of the latest technology in chimney sweeping masonry repair and all other aspects of the industry.

Ensure the cleaning professional has liability insurance.

Verifying that the contractor you are working with is fully insured with liability coverage is a crucial way to protect yourself against any damage from a chimney sweep entering your home or going onto your roof. If the company does not have liability coverage, you will be accountable for any damage that occurs and you don’t want this, do you?

Check the current reviews.

Aside from reviewing internet reviews, which a company can fake, ask the chimney sweep company for referrals. Contact the clients who have offered their names and phone numbers to inquire about their satisfaction with the chimney sweep company’s work. Do not engage a chimney sweep who cannot or unwillingly furnish you with the references.

When you receive the references, contact the clients and chat about their experience with the company.

Be on the lookout for phone scams.

Telephone scams for chimney sweep services are expected. Telemarketers that phone and entice you with meager prices sometimes sell leads to unqualified independent contractors who make as many calls as possible in a day.

Even worse, permitting a stranger into your home based on a phone conversation might open the door to criminal activities and expert fraudsters who earn your trust, steal your money, and go.

Even if you desperately need a chimney cleaning services Columbia MD provider to clean your chimney, don’t fall for the phone scams, as they might lead to plenty of problems later down the line.

Instead, you should stick to your lane and do your due diligence to find a suitable professional for your property and someone you feel comfortable allowing into your house.

The post Does A Chimney Sweep Make a Mess? first appeared on First Class Chimney Services.

This post first appeared on https://www.firstclasschimneyservices.com

Gas logs have revolutionized the way we enjoy fireplaces, offering convenience, warmth, and a touch of elegance without the hassle of traditional wood-burning systems. However, with several options available—vented gas logs, vent-free gas logs, and direct vent gas inserts—it’s essential to understand which type best suits your needs and aesthetics.

Understanding the Differences

A common misunderstanding is that all gas logs are simply referred to as “inserts,” which is inaccurate. Each type serves a distinct purpose and comes with its pros and cons. Vented gas logs are the most aesthetically pleasing but don’t provide much heat. Vent-free logs can efficiently heat a room but may not look as realistic and can emit unpleasant odors. Direct vent options, while requiring upfront installation, offer superior efficiency and odor-free operation, making them a top choice for many homeowners.

Vented Gas Logs

Vented gas logs are designed to be used in traditional wood-burning fireplaces. These logs provide a stunning visual display, creating a realistic flame that mimics a wood fire. However, one of the drawbacks is their heating efficiency; they are not designed to heat a room effectively since they vent combustion gases up the chimney. This makes them ideal for those who prioritize ambiance over heat. If your home has an existing wood-burning fireplace in good condition, vented gas logs could be the perfect choice for creating a cozy atmosphere.

Vent-Free Gas Logs

Vent-free gas logs, on the other hand, offer a more efficient heating solution. These logs are designed to burn cleanly and do not require a chimney or venting system, making them a suitable option for vent-free fireplaces or masonry chimneys that may not meet current codes but can be modified. While vent-free logs can heat a significant portion of your home or living space, they are known to emit an odor that some users find bothersome. Additionally, the appearance of vent-free logs may not be as realistic as their vented counterparts, which can impact the overall aesthetic of your space.

Direct Vent Gas Inserts

For homeowners looking for an economical alternative to costly repairs on wood-burning masonry fireplaces, direct vent gas inserts present an excellent option. Contrary to common belief, inserts are designed to fit inside an existing masonry fireplace, providing a closed system that draws fresh air from outside for combustion. This design eliminates the need for a chimney and significantly increases heating efficiency. Because direct vent systems have a fixed piece of glass over the front, they offer a clean look and create a cozy ambiance without the drawbacks of vent-free options.

Making the Right Choice

When navigating the world of gas logs, it’s essential to consider your specific needs and home layout. Southern Chimneys is here to help you make the best decision based on your wants and needs. Our experienced professionals will assess your existing fireplace setup, discuss your heating requirements, and guide you toward the ideal solution that combines aesthetics, functionality, and safety.

Whether you choose vented gas logs for their beauty, vent-free logs for their heating efficiency, or a direct vent gas insert for an economical upgrade, understanding the differences is crucial for a satisfying fireplace experience. Take the time to evaluate your options and consult with a certified professional to ensure your gas log choice enhances your home’s comfort and charm.

The post The World of Gas Logs – Choosing the Right Option for Your Home first appeared on Southern Chimneys.

This post first appeared on https://southernchimneys.com

Maintaining a commercial chimney stack is crucial for ensuring the safety and efficiency of your building’s heating system. One often overlooked component that plays a significant role in chimney function is the chimney cap. A well-functioning chimney cap protects your stack from the elements, prevents debris accumulation, and keeps animals out. However, like any part of your building, chimney caps can wear out over time.

At Best Chimney Services, property owners come to us for our commercial chimney services because of our detail to craftsmanship and reputation for integrity since 1989. If you’re looking for a chimney technician in the Boston area who will give you expert advice, give us a call to book your first inspection with us! In the meantime, learn how to identify when it’s time for a chimney cap replacement, below. 

Missing or Damaged Cap

One of the first indicators that your chimney cap may need replacing is visible damage, or worse, missing completely!   Look for:

• Missing screening or lid: wind can do lots of damage, especially at increased heights. 
• Cracks and Rust: Over time, exposure to harsh weather conditions can cause metal chimney caps to rust or crack. This damage compromises the cap’s effectiveness and can lead to further issues with your chimney.
• Bent or Dented Sections: If you notice any bends or dents in the cap, it could be a sign of damage from heavy winds and severe weather. These issues can affect the cap’s ability to shield your chimney properly.

Animal Intrusions

Chimney caps also serve to keep animals out of your chimney. If you notice signs of animal activity, such as animal droppings or nests, it could mean that your chimney cap has become compromised. Animals can cause significant blockages and damage, making timely replacement of the cap essential.

Water Damage Inside the Chimney

Although it can’t prevent all water intrusion, a chimney cap’s primary function is to prevent water from entering your chimney. If you start noticing water stains or damage inside your building, it could indicate that your chimney cap is no longer effectively keeping water out. Water infiltration can lead to:

• Masonry Damage: Water can cause significant damage to your chimney’s masonry, leading to costly repairs if not addressed promptly.
• Creosote Buildup: Excess moisture can contribute to the buildup of creosote, a flammable substance that increases the risk of chimney fires.

Age of the Chimney Cap

Chimney caps, like any component exposed to the elements, have a finite lifespan. Even if there aren’t obvious signs of damage, if your chimney cap is several years old, it might be time to consider a replacement. Regular commercial inspections can help you determine the cap’s condition and whether a replacement is necessary.

Increased Debris Accumulation

A well-maintained chimney cap should prevent leaves, branches, and other debris from entering your chimney. If you find a lot of debris in your chimney or around the base, it might be a sign that the cap is damaged or not functioning correctly. This accumulation can obstruct airflow and reduce the efficiency of your heating system.

Call Best Chimney Services for a Chimney Cap Replacement

A functional chimney cap is vital for the safety and efficiency of your commercial chimney stack. Regular inspections and timely replacements can prevent costly repairs and ensure that your heating system operates smoothly. If you notice any of the signs mentioned above, schedule an appointment with us to get these resolved!

The post When It’s Time for a Commercial Chimney Cap Replacement appeared first on Boston's Best Chimney.

Finding birds in your chimney can either be a delightful or a concerning discovery, depending on the homeowner. No matter the case, it’s essential to handle the situation correctly to ensure the safety of both the birds and your property, especially if those birds are Chimney Swifts.

At Best Chimney Services, we understand the importance of dealing with this issue delicately. We’ve been in business since 1989, helping homeowners and property owners navigate chimney troubles safely and effectively. Our services range from residential chimney services to commercial chimney services to cover a variety of chimney solutions. If you’re looking for a chimney technician you can count on, schedule your first appointment with us today! In the meantime, here are the steps to take if you find birds in your chimney, with a special focus on respecting active Chimney Swift nests.

Understanding the Situation

Trying to stop birds from coming down your chimney can be difficult and frustrating. But before taking any action, it’s crucial to identify the type of birds in your chimney. The most common culprits are Chimney Swifts, which are small, agile birds known for their distinctive call and rapid flight. These birds often choose chimneys as their nesting sites due to their long claws—perfectly suited for chimney walls—and a chimney’s secure and sheltered environment.

1. Assess the Situation

When you discover birds in your chimney, the first step is to assess the situation. We recommend observing from a distance to take note of the bird species, if you can,  and their activity. Look for signs of nesting, such as twigs or feathers. Listen for the characteristic sounds of the birds. Chimney Swifts, for instance, make a series of rapid, high-pitched calls. They are not known for being aggressive birds and rarely travel down the chimney, but it’s still best to not approach them. 

2. Respect Active Nests

If you find Chimney Swifts, it’s crucial to understand that their nests are protected by law. Active nests should not be disturbed or removed during the breeding season, which typically spans from late April to early August. Disturbing these nests can be illegal and harmful to the birds. Avoid attempting to remove the nest or the birds yourself. This can be stressful and potentially harmful to the birds. Additionally, removing an active nest without proper authorization can result in legal consequences.

3. Keep an Eye (and Ear) Out

Monitor the situation from a safe distance. Keep an eye on the birds and listen for any changes in their behavior. If the birds are quiet, it may indicate that they have finished nesting and are preparing to leave.

4. Consider Future Protective Options

Once the nesting season is over and the birds have departed, it’s a good idea to install a chimney cap. A chimney cap serves as a protective barrier that prevents birds and other animals from entering your chimney. We recommend getting necessary chimney inspections as well because a chimney technician can check for signs of nests actively being built. This proactive measure helps ensure that your chimney remains clear and functional for future use.

5. Seek Professional Assistance

If you’re unsure about how to handle the situation or if you need to address any potential damage caused by the birds, it’s wise to consult a professional. They can provide guidance on a safe and legal approach, and even remove the nest after it’s been vacated to discourage the birds from returning.

Call Best Chimney Services to Install Your Chimney Cap

By respecting active nests, keeping a vigilant watch, and seeking professional help when needed, you can manage the situation effectively and humanely. Avoid the future conflict of finding birds in your chimney by installing a chimney cap! Give us a call today to book your appointment. 

The post What to Do if You Find Birds In Your Chimney appeared first on Boston's Best Chimney.

When bricks start to chip, crack, flake, and break down, this is called spalling. This is quite common as the bricks age. Eventually, the bricks will fall away from the structure if not repaired. 

What Causes Spalling Bricks?

Several factors may cause spalling bricks. Over time the aging of bricks will cause spalling. The weather causes spalling bricks. Whether you live deep in the south or well into the north you have to deal with the elements that come with such drastic weather conditions. Extreme heat and water infiltration to name a few. In the North, the effects of freezing and thawing water can be very detrimental to the life of bricks.

Spalling may start in a very small crack. Over time water infiltrates that small crack. If left alone and not repaired, the crack will continue to grow. Left too long it can become a devastating situation as it may damage the structure. The spalling bricks break down and start to fall out of the structure. Think of it as a game of Jenga. The bricks or blocks start to fall out and eventually, the structure collapses.   

Once spalling bricks are noticed it is important to get in touch with a professional chimney company such as Northeastern Chimney, Inc. 

How is Spalling Bricks Repaired?

• To repair spalling bricks, first, our technicians will remove the brick that has begun to see spalling. We scrape all the mortar away from the existing area. We make it clean so that a new brick can sit on the spot level. Dust and debris are brushed away so there is a perfect fit. 
• Next, it is important to choose a brick that is an exact fit. The color and texture are also very important when replacing spalling bricks. 
• Once the brick is chosen, the repair begins. Mortar is placed on all sides of the opening and the brick is inserted. 
• We make every effort to clean around the new brick 
• Water repellent may be added after the mortar has dried for extra protection.

Professionals suggest that an annual Chimney sweep and inspection be conducted. When a problem arises, the best plan is to tackle it as soon as possible. This will cost you much less than if you let the damage to the fireplace and bricks go on too long.

Northeastern Chimney, Inc. are here for you.

We can work around your schedule at your convenience. We service all of Hartford, Tolland, and Litchfield Counties. All our chimney technicians are CSIA certified. We are active in the National Chimney Sweep Guild (NCSG) and the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA)

In addition, Northeastern Chimney, Inc. maintains a rigorous training schedule and a strict code of performance and ethics.

Our technicians have continued education. We believe in staying up to date in the leading circles of sweep education. We are members of the National Chimney Sweep Guild, and the Chimney Safety Institute of America, we take advantage of opportunities for ongoing training. Each year we send sweeps to the National Chimney Convention to learn the latest techniques, technologies, and strategies in sweeping and chimney maintenance to increase their level of expertise.

The post The Causes of Spalling Bricks appeared first on .

This post first appeared on https://www.mychimney.com

“Why are we talking about chimney leaks when it has been so dry?” “No need to worry about water leaks from the chimney, all looks good in the house so far.” These are two statements that have been going through everyone’s minds. No rain, no problems, so therefore there must be no issues! Is it best to wait until you have water stains on the ceiling of your home? Or until you hear the sound of dripping water in the fireplace?  

During the last rain storm in the Chicagoland area, it really made a mess. Many branches were down, leaves were scattered everywhere and some of that debris ended up in the chimney. The humidity was high, which many homeowners reported smells coming from the fireplace. Now you have expenses of damages to pay for instead of a standard chimney inspection which would have caught these problems ahead of time.

Why Do Homeowners Wait?

Some homeowners just simply forget there’s a fireplace in the home because they don’t use it. But does that mean it shouldn’t be swept & inspected? Just the opposite.

1. Homeowners need to realize that a chimney is used for more than the fireplace. The water heater and furnace/boiler appliances also use the chimney as a path to release toxins or gasses to the outside. This is important to the health of the home and your family. Getting an inspection by a certified chimney technician is the way to go.  
2. Some homeowners use a gas fireplace. Does that need to be swept & inspected? Yes, again. Just because it’s gas and you get to turn it off means everything is okay. The chimney flue still needs to be checked for wear and tear along with the exterior chimney for cracks, mortar repair and the chimney cap which keeps critters and debris out. And let’s not forget, #1 still applies here as well.
3. Woodburning fireplaces are a fan favorite. Many homeowners like to use their fireplace. It’s a passion to pick out the perfect wood for a beautiful smell, look and warmth that it provides. It is the centerpiece for the home. Many, not all, get their fireplace, chimney and flue swept & inspected each year as they know about creosote and how the build up can be flammable.

As most homes have a fireplace…or three, they all need to be inspected and cared for to keep the house safe.

Just Remember…

When a Superior Chimney technician comes out, we include the homeowner in every step of the process. We understand that getting on the roof, or looking into the flue is not something that a homeowner does…ever. That’s why we take pictures, share them with you and give you details about the health of the fireplace through the exterior chimney with pictures and a report. When our technicians get back to the office, we email the pictures to you so you have a record to refer to next time we come out to service your chimney.

Contact us today 877-244-6349

This post first appeared on https://www.superiorchimney.net

We’re heading in that time of year where homeowners are opting for hot chocolate over an iced tea. The sound of a crackling fireplace becomes more and more desirable as the cool nights settle in. Nothing is better than the sound of a warm, cozy fireplace. As you want to get the fireplace started, you’ll want to take a few steps to keeping the fireplace in “ready for use” shape. Let’s take a closer look.

Fireplace and Chimney Inspection

According to the Chimney Safety Institute, homeowners need to have their chimney and fireplace swept and inspected each year. This ensures not only a worthy place to start a fire, but also efficient. For instance, a heat shield can increase the heat in your home by 20%. Where else would that heat go? Out. Outside of your home and into the chilly air where it will not do any good. That 20% increase in heat can help reduce your energy bill saving you money.

Sweeping the Chimney

There are a few reasons to sweep the chimney. When the weather gets chilly, our little critter friends get cold. Just because they live year round outside, doesn’t mean they don’t get cold. And when they do, they are going to look for a nice warm place to stay. How about your chimney? No wind, nice and cozy, a perfect place to set up shop and sleep for the night. How do they get in? One of the best places is your exterior chimney when the chimney cap is missing or even loose. If you can move it, so can our little friends.

Don’t forget about debris! Wind and the changing of the seasons is a great way to sneak debris into the chimney. If it isn’t swept, then the animals and / or debris can be ignited by the spark of the fire and cause damage to your fireplace, chimney and home. Best not to take that chance!

Flue Damper and Heat Shield

One of the best ways to keep heat in your home and stop it from escaping is the damper and heat shield. We just discussed the importance of the heat shield, let’s talk about the damper. When the damper doesn’t work, it allows for heat to escape. Now this isn’t when the fireplace is ON, this is when the fireplace is not burning or OFF. The damper must be in good working order as the damper needs to be open when a fire is burning in the fireplace. The allows the smoke to leave the home and keep everyone from being smoked out (and dangerous fumes, of course.)

Checking for Damages

A fireplace and chimney inspection will work to identify any cracks in the fireplace firewalls as well as cracks on the exterior of the chimney, namely the chimney crown, mortar and any ‘spalling’ on the bricks. Any cracks can cause moisture to enter into the chimney system and encourage the deterioration process and damage. By getting the cracks identified and repaired, will keep any big repair bills at bay.

Contact Superior Chimney today and schedule your fireplace and chimney inspection. Call 877-244-6349.

This post first appeared on https://www.superiorchimney.net

Gas fireplaces have become more and more popular over the past several years. Millennials are coming of age. They are busy with their careers, buying their first homes, and raising a family. However, they don’t want the added tasks of caring for and maintaining a wood-burning fireplace. This is not to say that we all seek an easier way to enjoy life.

A fireplace is a must-have for many new homeowners. The cozy ambiance that it brings to a home is not to beat. A room with a fireplace is usually the focal point of a home. A gathering place. A gas fireplace is certainly easier to keep up, but it is not completely self-maintained.

For every fireplace, a professional inspection annually is a good idea. There are certain things that you can do as a homeowner.  The regular upkeep will keep your gas fireplace or insert running efficiently year after year. 

Fireplace Safety First

Before any fireplace maintenance, turn off the pilot and the gas. Wait about an hour as the gas exits the pipeline. Let the fireplace cool down.

Homeowner Maintenance

• Clean the glass doors. If the glass doors can be detached, you may do that. Use the manufacturer’s directions. Over time the glass dulls and may interfere with its pristine beauty. Dirty glass hinders the efficiency of the fireplace. It prevents the heater from working appropriately. Use a nonabrasive cleaner and a soft cloth.
• Clean the interior of the fireplace regularly. Dust and debris will collect in the fireplace. Thus, it is important to clean this regularly to keep the efficiency of the fireplace up. Take out the logs. Vacuum out the base of the fireplace. Vacuum the pilot component, blower, and burners. Use a soft damp cloth to wipe off the logs and the inner walls of the firebox. 
• Check ventilation regularly. Ventilation is important to prevent carbon monoxide gas buildup. Confirm that there is no blockage in the vent system. At times there may be blockage or nests that have gotten inside. Contact your professional chimney company to clean out the system. 
• Upgrade when needed. After years of use, the glass doors become dated and lose their efficiency. Several new gas fireplaces are safer and more efficient than the older versions. An upgrade may be a choice for you.

By keeping your gas fireplace in tip-top shape you will enjoy years of enjoyment. Cleaning out your fireplace is your first effort to keep an efficient fireplace. When it comes to the big jobs, contact Northeastern Chimney for a professional inspection. This is the time of year to secure your inspection. Call us before the season turns cold and the appointments are not readily available. 

Call the Chimney Professionals

Schedule your inspection or cleaning soon by calling Northeastern Chimney. We can clean your chimney no matter what bend or curve you have. We come with all the equipment needed for all sorts of chimneys. Our certified chimney technicians provide quality chimney sweep services including chimney repairs, chimney cleaning, and chimney rebuilding for residents in West Hartford, East Windsor, Farmington, Glastonbury, Wethersfield, Marlborough, Cromwell, and the surrounding Central Connecticut area. Contact us today!

The post Complete Guide to Gas Fireplace Maintenance appeared first on .

This post first appeared on https://www.mychimney.com