A variety of items in Illinois are burned in a wood burning fireplace, from proper/improper wood, coal, cardboard, paper and even plastic. Burning the right materials is essential to keeping a safe environment inside the home. The wrong burning materials may cause a terrible smell inside the home, and a contribution to the rising air pollution levels. How can we help reduce the amount of pollution and improve safety inside our home fireplaces?

Burning Plastic Causes Pollution

According to the World Health Organization, 33 out of the 50 most polluted cities in Europe are located in Poland. Upon visiting Poland, it’s apparent that there’s an issue with air pollution. After visiting the clean air of the mountainside in the south of the country, moving only 1-hour north into the most polluted cities, such as Krakow and Wroclaw, is a drastic change. Chimneys pump out thick green and black smoke from their tops, which give the impression of entering a storm. Polish citizens and authorities state that the pollution comes from the burning of plastic in wood burning fireplaces. As gas is not a common way to heat the home in Poland, homeowners’ resort to using these materials to burn. It results in a red, hazy smog that hides the sun for months. Currently, authorities attempt to fix the pollution problem by providing free coal and improvements to gas heating systems. Yet, the fix is slow, and political and financial issues in the country hinder the progress, causing residents to burn even more plastic than in previous years.

What can be burned in a fireplace?

When burning papers, plastics and Styrofoam in a wood burning fireplace, the combustion process releases chemicals that when breathed in, are toxic. If a thick, black smoke is coming from a chimney, it’s a sign that there are plastics being burnt. This residue can stain the home as well. Burning paper also releases toxins, and makes an immense amount of heat. Little scraps of hot paper are likely to float up through the chimney and land outside, potentially causing a fire. Burning coal releases carbon monoxide, a very dangerous and deadly chemical.

Hardwoods and softwoods can both be safely burned in a wood burning fireplace. Hardwoods include walnut, maple, and oak, where softwoods are pine, cedar, and spruce. The wood should have 25% water content or less to be safely burned. If the wood has a green color, it has a high moisture content and cannot safely be burnt. The wood should be cut & seasoned, around 1.5 – 2 years old, and not treated or sealed with any chemicals or paint. When burned, the wood should release a grey-ish transparent smoke from the chimney.

Last notes

Keeping your fireplace cleaned and safe for you and your home is very important. An unsafe fireplace may also harm those around, by causing air pollution and expelling toxins. If you have any further questions about what you can and cannot burn in the wood burning fireplace, the experts at Superior Chimney can help. Keep your fireplace safe by scheduling an inspection with us at Superior Chimney, and call 877-244-6349.

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

With high humidity levels and above normal temperatures, your chimney may be in need for chimney masonry repairs. Normally, Chicago, Illinois is met with a below freezing winter with high winds, low humidity and lots of snow. However, this year’s winter has been unique. This winter in Chicago has been warmer than usual with high levels of humidity. There has been more rain than snow. Water seeping into the porous cracks of a brick chimney is expected to become a real issue when maintaining your chimney the remainder of this winter and upcoming spring. The humidity levels are going to rise with the spring rains. This, along with higher temperatures, will quickly break down the mortar.

What are Chimney Masonry Repairs?

A masonry chimney is made of both masonry and metal materials, such as brick, stone, tile, steel/cast iron, concrete and mortar. All these materials are susceptible to changes in rainy or humid weather due to their porous nature. They act like a sponge. Water freezes and melts based on the varying Chicago winter temperatures, causing the moisture inside porous materials to go through stress from the expansion and shrinking. Additionally, metals become weakened and rusty. How do you know if you need chimney masonry repairs?

You may be able to observe some of this damage if you check your chimney, such as:

• Cracks in the masonry: Letting these cracks go unfixed cause a buildup of deposits. The chimney should transport the combustion chemicals away from the home. With cracks, the chemicals become trapped, causing a fire hazard.
• Cracks in the chimney crown: the crown may be crooked, cracked or falling apart.
• A damaged chimney liner: the chimney liner should help preserve the structure of the chimney and protect it from moisture damage. Any damages may cause water to leak into the chimney.

When to Call Superior Chimney

If you notice any of the above damage to your chimney, you need emergency chimney masonry repairs. Not attending to these repairs only cause further water damage, spreading quickly throughout your chimney. This damage may also cause a house fire. These repairs are recommended to be made in warmer temperatures, but it is possible to also do emergency chimney masonry repairs in winter. It’s possible to prevent this damage by installing rain covers or by waterproofing your chimney.

Even if you are not experiencing any of the damages listed above, it’s beneficial to keep up with the potential damage that this winter may have had on your chimney. It is often difficult to recognize the need for chimney masonry repairs. Superior Chimney’s experts can help identify any hidden or potential problems by giving your chimney an inspection. Our experts can advise on appropriate prevention methods as well. Call to set up your chimney inspection today at 877-244-6349.

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

Many homes have the added charm of a wood-burning fireplace. Not much is better than sitting in front of a fire on a cold day in the comfort of your own home! A classic focal point and practical tool, a wood-burning fireplace can actually have benefits over other sourced fireplaces. Read on to learn about the benefits and rewards of using a wood-burning fireplace in your home.

Lower Utility Bills In Cold Months

Fuel costs are rising, so whether you’re using gas or electric heating systems, you’re likely hoping there’s a way to cut down on those costs. Using a wood-burning fireplace can help lower your utility bills in the colder months since a fire does not require electricity, power, or gas. You can use your fireplace to help supplement the heating source you currently use and even add  a radiant fireback to optimize heat output while burning.  Turn your system’s heat temperature down and get some added heat from your fireplace to save some money.

Heating System During Power Outages

Winter storms can impact many aspects of our lives. Road conditions may be poor, temperatures may drop dangerously low, and strong winds can cause damage to property and power lines. During a prolonged, or even a short, power outage, you can’t use your central heating system. Being without power during cold temperatures will cause your home to lose heat. If you have a wood-burning fireplace and dry firewood, you can still warm your home during a power outage! If you’re living in an area where power outages during cold months are common, you can greatly benefit from using a wood-burning fireplace.

Environmentally Friendly Option

Being an environmentally friendly alternative to other home heating sources, a wood-burning fireplace can provide great comfort through warmth in your home and great comfort in knowing you’re not damaging the environment. Waste from burning wood is less taxing on the environment than fossil fuels. Fossil fuels are burned to create electricity for central heating systems, and the burning of these fossil fuels releases more carbon dioxide than wood. Not only does the burning of wood release carbon dioxide, but also living trees, before being cut down and made into firewood, absorb carbon dioxide to survive. Feel better about your warmth by reducing your greenhouse gas emissions.

Easy to Maintain

A tried and true classic, a wood-burning fireplace has great longevity. While you do need to contact professionals if you run into an issue, issues are likely to occur less often than issues with electric or gas heating systems. Aside from disposing of ashes after a fire, a wood-burning fireplace should be inspected once a year. Chimney inspections and cleanings can allow for better home heating by creating a clear passageway for optimal flow. They can also help you ensure you have the proper equipment for your chimney, like chimney caps and dampers to prevent a drafty chimney.

Contact Boston’s Best Chimney for Your Boston, MA Area Wood-Burning Fireplace and Chimney Needs

Boston’s Best Chimney can provide all of your chimney needs. From chimney sweeping to repairs and more, our team of knowledgeable chimney technicians can provide the chimney services you need to maintain your wood-burning fireplace’s benefits. Click here or call (781)893-6611 to schedule an appointment with a technician.

The post Why Choose a Wood-Burning Fireplace? appeared first on Boston's Best Chimney.

Do you know how many or what tools are needed to conduct a chimney sweeping? Chimney cleaners use various chimney sweeping tools, even some you may not have known were needed for a chimney cleaning! Keep reading to learn what tools are used to clean a chimney and why it’s important to have a professional conduct your cleaning.

Chimney Sweeping Tools

Brush Types

There are many more types of brushes to use during a chimney sweep than most people may have realized. Each type of brush serves a different specific and necessary function.

Wire Chimney Brush

Every chimney sweep uses the most dependable chimney sweep brush—a trustworthy wire brush—to attack difficult-to-reach crevices and corners. These work particularly well for cleaning clay-flued masonry chimneys. This kind of chimney sweep brush might be sufficient to remove the glazed or tarred creosote deposits from a flue, but occasionally you need to use the heavy-duty equipment for chimneys that haven’t been touched by a bristle for a while.

Polypropylene Brush

An alternative to the wire brush for more delicate chimneys, such as those lined with stainless steel, is a polypropylene brush. A soft poly brush makes sure that the homeowner’s steel liner’s warranty isn’t deemed void due to unnecessary scratching and scuffing.

Smoke Chamber Brush

There are other parts of the chimney that might accumulate creosote in addition to the flue lining. By including the proper smoke chamber brush in your chimney cleaning kit to remove creosote buildup, you can ensure that homeowners won’t be put in danger.

Chimney Sweeping Rods

Sometimes, the brush a chimney cleaner has isn’t long enough to reach all of the crevices they need to clean. When that is the case, they must have a flexible chimney cleaning rod. With a rod that fits many different types of brushes, a cleaning rod can be used universally on brushes as an extender to reach everywhere within the chimney.

Chimney Cleaning Agents

When brushes aren’t enough, a professional chimney cleaner would resort to chimney cleaning agents. The walls of the flue lining can become severely coated with soot and creosote deposits, therefore experts know to use tried-and-true chimney cleaning products that have been shown to remove even the thickest layers of creosote. When standard cleaning techniques fall short, these high-grade chemical cleaners remove glazed creosote.

Industrial-strength chimney cleaners provide a speedy, safe solution without breaking the bank or requiring you to scrub for an eternity. To avoid hazardous emissions compromising the air quality of the household, choose a cleaning chemical that is non-toxic and environmentally friendly.

Ceramic Glass Cleaner

Not all fireplaces and chimneys are constructed using the same types of common building supplies. You must use a cleaning solution made for ceramic glass when you come across it. You can remove creosote or soot buildup from the ceramic glass itself and prevent further formation by using a conditioning liquid for fireplaces and grills.

Powder-Based Creosote Remover

Professional chimney cleaners continue to favor A.W. Perkins Co. Creosote Remover when looking for a chemical cleaner that is effective with airtight fireplaces. Modern homes frequently have zero-clearance fireplaces, which are typically constructed with a metal flue. By eliminating any buildup of soot and ash, a powder-based mixture will enhance the fireplace’s overall function while also improving ventilation.

Call Boston’s Best Chimney for Your Next Chimney Cleaning

As you can tell, a lot goes into chimney cleaning, including knowing what chimney cleaning tools to use. Boston’s Best Chimney’s technicians are highly knowledgeable with years of experience. They know all the right chimney cleaning tools to use so that you don’t have to worry about it all. Get in touch with us to schedule your chimney cleaning here or give us a call at (781) 893-6611.

The post What Kinds of Tools Do Chimney Techs Use? appeared first on Boston's Best Chimney.

“Internal chimney deterioration” is a diagnosis that any homeowner dreads hearing. It usually means that extensive repairs will be needed for safe function. Today, we’ll discuss what typically causes internal chimney deterioration, along with signs that your chimney is deteriorating and ways to prevent this from happening.

Do you suspect that your chimney is deteriorating inside? Our team would be happy to inspect your chimney for damage. If you are located in the Greater Boston, MA area, don’t hesitate to click here or call (781) 893-6611 to get in touch with us.

Now, we’ll dive into the specifics of chimney deterioration. 

What Causes Internal Chimney Deterioration

Chimneys usually corrode from the inside out as a result of heating flues being exposed to constant usage throughout the winter. The heat exhaust and moisture from fuel combustion takes a toll on the flue, ultimately causing internal deterioration.

Signs Your Chimney is Deteriorating

If your chimney is showing signs of deterioration on the outside, it is probably worse on the inside. Some external signs of deterioration include: 

• Soot stains
• Poor draft
• Debris in the chimney
• No more hot water
• Heating equipment not properly working

If you are seeing any signs of damage, don’t hesitate to contact our team to discuss measures to take.

How to Prevent Chimney Deterioration

• Have your chimney inspected and swept annually.  Regular maintenance will help keep it in top shape and help prevent chimney issues, such as deterioration. 
• Waterproofing your chimney will protect the bricks from absorbing water. 
• Installing a chimney cap will keep rain out the chimney, slowing internal decay
• Ensuring that your chase cover is in good order will also keep precipitation out of your chimney

For more chimney flue care tips, check out our chimney flue guide.

Need Assistance with Your Chimney? Contact Best Chimney Services

If your chimney needs an inspection, sweep, or other service, get in touch with our team. We are an all-service chimney company with over thirty years of experience and we’re ready to serve you! 

The post What Causes Internal Chimney Deterioration? appeared first on Boston's Best Chimney.

Winter weather in New England is cold and wet, which can take a toll on your home. Thankfully, there are winter maintenance checklist items that can help ensure that your house stays in great shape throughout these harsh months. Today, we’ll share our top winter home maintenance tips with you, including some winter chimney care tips. 

Here are some ways that you can better maintain your home and chimney this winter.

Get Your Chimney Inspected and Swept

When was your last chimney inspection? Your chimney needs to be inspected annually to make sure that it is not threatening your family with carbon monoxide poisoning or as a fire hazard. Chimney inspections will also help ensure that your fireplace is working efficiently and not causing energy loss in your home.

Similarly, your chimney should be inspected once a year and swept as needed to remove soot and creosote build up, which becomes unsafe if unaddressed. We recommend hiring a CSIA certified chimney sweep for the job to ensure that your technician has undergone extensive training and is fit for the job.

If you are looking to have your Boston, MA area chimney swept or inspected this winter, click here or call (781) 893-6611 to contact our team!

Check for Gaps Around Your Doors and Windows

Spaces around the windows and doors of your home can let cold air in and make your house drafty and uncomfortable. That is not to mention the energy loss that will occur as your heating system tries to keep your chilly house warm. Stand near your doors and windows this winter to see if you feel drafts coming from them and if you do, check for small gaps. You can add caulking to your doors and windows or weatherstrip your windows to close these gaps if needed.

Replace Your Smoke Detector and Carbon Monoxide Detector Batteries

We recommend changing your smoke detector and carbon monoxide detector batteries twice a year. Winter is a good time to either check or replace the batteries, since it is when you will be using your fireplace and keeping your windows closed. Check out our fire safety checklist for more tips on keeping your fireplace secure.

Clean Out Your Dryer Vent

Clean out the lint filter and the lint vent of your dryer regularly year round, but especially during the winter when your dryer is likely being used more. Failing to do so can cause a fire in your home. The National Fire Protection Association reported the following:“In 2010-2014, U.S. fire departments responded to an estimated average of 15,970 home structure fires involving clothes dryers or washing machines each year. These fires caused annual averages of 13 civilian deaths, 444 civilian injuries, and $238 million in direct property damage. The vast majority of fires (92%) involved clothes dryers.” Cleaning out your dryer vent is a quick and simple step that you can take to prevent major issues.

Get a Chimney Cap

Do you have a chimney without a cap? We highly recommend having a chimney cap installed this winter if you do not already have one. During the winter, having a chimney cap will keep animals from hibernating in your chimney and prevent snow from entering into your chimney. If you’d like to learn more, take a look at our chimney cap guide for more information.

Take Care of Your Home This Winter

Make sure that your house is taken care of during the long winter months by following some of our winter home maintenance tips! If your home has a chimney and you are located in the Greater Boston, MA area, don’t hesitate to contact our team for your chimney needs. We look forward to using our more than thirty years of experience to serve you!

The post Our Winter Home Maintenance Checklist appeared first on Boston's Best Chimney.

The fireplace is a central relaxing ambience of the home, and nothing can beat reading a book with a hot chocolate mug in front of a blazing fire during a cold night. But sometimes, it feels gloomy, especially in front of the gas fireplace, as the fireplace glass becomes foggy with moisture. However, they are convenient and easy-to-use. 

The gas fireplace is less appealing, and you need propane to light it up, which is an expensive heating fuel. That’s why some people still prefer traditional wood-burning fireplaces in their homes.

And , if you’re one of those homeowners who want to experience the warm and cozy feeling of a real wood-burning fireplace, follow these tips and convert the fireplace from gas to wood burning one. 

6 Steps to Convert the Gas Fireplace to a Wood-Burning Stove

If you have recently moved into a new-build home, your gas fireplace may not convert to a wood-burning stove. Because many new-built homes today do not have functioning chimneys, which are required for wood-burning fireplaces.

A few steps allow homeowners of new-build homes to convert their gas fireplaces to wood-burning stoves. Make sure to follow them properly! 

1. Know your situation
2. Get approval
3. Have your chimney inspected
4. Change your flue
5. The conversion process
6. Ensure you have proper ventilation

• Know Your Situation

Before getting started with the conversion process, ensure to reconsider your situation. Do you really need to convert a gas fireplace into a wood burning one? 

Suppose you live in a newly-built home with an originally built gas fireplace, that doesn’t  have  an actual flue and chimney installed—then the process of conversion  will take extra time. 

To proceed with the conversion, you’ll need to replace the entire fireplace as well as install a flue and chimney. 

However, if your home originally has a wood-burning fireplace, but it operates with gas, then it is easy to convert such a  fireplace back into a traditional wood-burning fireplace.

• Get Approval

Before beginning a gas-to-wood fireplace conversion, ensure that your fireplace is suitable for the change. 

Additionally, it’s recommended that you first verify with the local authorities for any building codes and permit requirements to avoid any potential legal issues. 

Secondly, do thorough research before investing in a major home renovation project like gas fireplace conversion into wood one.

• Have Your Chimney Inspected

If you already have a chimney associated with your gas fireplace, it is essential to get it inspected before converting it into a wood-burning fireplace. The chimney is crucially connected to the functioning of a wood-burning fireplace, and a fireplace may not be able to work without the addition of a chimney. 

Ensure that the brick and mortar, chimney liner, damper, crown, and cap are in good condition before using the fireplace.  If you want chimney repair & cleaning, then reach out to us at High’s Chimney by calling 301-519-3500. 

Note: This step is not necessary for homeowners installing a new chimney.

• Change Your Flue

Gas flues can’t handle high temperatures from wood stoves and single-skin flues can’t effectively channel fumes. They don’t release fumes directly into the chimney, as hot air may not rise and could cool and descend into living space.

A 316-grade flue liner is a recommended solution, as it can effectively channel the combustibles and handle the burning seasoned wood.

• The Conversion Process

After verifying that your chimney is all prepared for wood burning through necessary inspections and cleanings, you can finalize the process of converting your fireplace from gas to wood.

The final step in the conversion process is to remove the gas logs and either turn off the gas supply or have a gas lighter installed for your wood fireplace. Here a  gas lighter simplifies the task of starting fires compared to manual methods.

Keep in mind that converting a gas fireplace to a wood-burning one requires attention to detail and technical expertise. For a safe and proper conversion, it’s best to leave the process to the gas fireplace servicing professionals. 

• Ensure You Have Proper Ventilation

When it comes to your fireplace, proper ventilation is important. Whether you are using a wood-burning fireplace or a gas fireplace, you need to ensure that you have adequate ventilation to prevent carbon monoxide and other harmful fumes from building up inside your home. 

In order to keep a  wood-burning stove in proper working condition, you  need two components;  wood and oxygen. Without adequate oxygen, the fire will not be able to sustain itself. The wood burning stove takes in the necessary oxygen from the surrounding room, making proper ventilation crucial to its operation.

Also, it’s essential to read out the new regulations and ensure that you have a proper ventilation system in your home to keep your family safe and healthy while also enjoying the comfort and warmth of your wood-burning fireplace.

4 Benefits of Having a Wood-Burning Stove

Wood-burning stoves have been a center of attraction in homes for centuries, and for a good reason. Not only do they provide a cozy and warm atmosphere, but they also offer a number of practical benefits that make them an excellent choice for homeowners and still highly preferable.  

• Efficiency

One of the biggest advantages of a wood-burning stove is its efficiency, as  they retain heat much more effectively. 

However, this not only means that you’ll enjoy a warm and comfortable home, but it also means that you’ll be able to save money on your energy bills, as the wood burning fireplace is cost effective. 

• Environmental Benefits

Another great benefit of having a wood-burning stove is that it’s an environmentally friendly option. Wood is a renewable resource, and it releases carbon dioxide into the atmosphere when it’s burned. 

These wood-burning stoves have a much smaller carbon footprint.

• Aesthetics

In addition to its practical benefits, a wood-burning stove also adds a touch of charm and character to any room. It comes in a variety of styles and designs, from sleek and modern to rustic and traditional, so be sure to find one that fits your personal style and aesthetic. And, of course, there’s nothing quite like the warmth and glow of a wood-burning fire to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere.

• Cost-Effective

Another great advantage of a wood-burning stove is that it can be a cost-effective way to heat your home. Wood is often readily available and can be obtained for a relatively low cost, especially if you have access to your own supply of firewood.

How Much Does a Fireplace Conversion Usually Cost?

The cost estimate for a gas-to-wood fireplace conversion project in Maryland is based on several factors, such as the ventilation system and chimney work. The age and condition of the home and chimney, as well as any previous damage caused by fire or water, may impact the cost. Generally, these conversions can cost a few hundred dollars or less if you are able to handle some of the work yourself.

If you are looking for the exact amount for the fireplace conversion, then schedule an appointment today by filling out a query form.  

Where Can I Get a Fireplace Expert?  

Finding gas fireplace experts near you, especially in Maryland can be easily done by searching online or getting recommendations from friends and family. However, it’s advisable to contact the certified experts at High’s Chimney. Our team will provide you with comprehensive information on the six steps involved in converting a gas fireplace to wood, including:

• Improving efficiency and heat output
• Selecting the right fuel type
• Choosing the appropriate insert
• Installing a chimney liner/ grate/blower

Get the Gas Fireplace Services in Maryland!

If you are still trying to decide about converting your gas fireplace to a wood-burning stove, drop us a query by calling our gas fireplace expert at 301-519-3500; they will help you make a final decision.  

The post How To Convert a Gas Fireplace to a Wood-Burning Stove? appeared first on Highs Chimney.

Regular duct cleaning is necessary to remove  debris, mold, germs, and pests from your ducts, in order to improve indoor air quality. However, the question that comes to mind after looking in the cleaning process, does the air duct cleaning process create a mess?

Yes, it does create a mess while cleaning the air duct. This is because, during the cleaning process, a high-powered suction machine is used, which can cause the dispersal of debris and dust within your home, as ducts are located throughout the house.

Though, there are some ways that can help you prevent the mess! 

Ways to Prevent The Air Duct Cleaning Mess 

Air duct cleaning is a task that requires specialized tools and training and can result in some degree of mess. 

However, certain precautions can be taken to ensure that the dust and debris are contained within the ducts and properly vacuum with high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA)-rated equipment. If the air ducts are thoroughly sealed and inspected by a professional technician, the escape of dust and other contaminants into the rest of your home during the cleaning process will be kept to a minimum.

Below, we have listed down the ways that can help you prevent or at least minimize the mess of air duct cleaning for a better indoor breathing environment.  

• Cover Your Furniture & Flooring: Before starting the air duct cleaning, it’s essential to ensure that you cover all the furniture and flooring with protective covering sheets to prevent any dust from settling in there. 
• Seal Off the Ducts: If possible, seal off the ducts to prevent dust and debris from spreading throughout your home.
• Vacuum Thoroughly Before & After Cleaning: Vacuum your home thoroughly before and after the cleaning air duct to minimize the amount of dust that escapes back into your home.
• Open Windows & Doors: Also, open windows and doors to allow for ventilation and reduce the buildup of dust and debris inside your home.
• Hire a Reputable Duct Cleaning Expert: A professional and experienced duct cleaning expert at High’s Chimney will use the right equipment and techniques to minimize the mess caused while cleaning the air ducts. Our experts use state-of-the-art vacuum systems with HEPA filtration to trap dust, debris, and other particles, so they don’t escape into your home.

The Importance of Air Ducts Cleaning 

Regular duct cleaning is important to keep your home’s ventilation clean from dust particles and other contaminants. It is essential for quality indoor air, energy efficiency, and longevity of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems.  

• Maintain Good Air Quality 

The air that flows through your ducts is the same air your family inhales on a daily basis. If you leave ducts unchecked, then there’s a chance that they may collect allergens such as pollen and pet dander, which can then be released back into your living space through the air vents. 

Although these dust particles may not pose a significant health risk, they can cause problems for individuals who suffer from asthma, allergies, or other respiratory problems. But having your air ducts cleaned can improve air quality and ensure that your air remains free of airborne particles.

• Boost Energy Efficiency 

If air ducts are not cleaned, the buildup of debris can hinder the flow of air to and from the HVAC system components. When ducts are clogged, your furnace or air conditioner must use more energy to perform effectively. Maintaining clean ducts will ensure optimal efficiency for your HVAC units.

• Protect Heating & Cooling Equipment 

A poorly maintained ventilation system can result in clogged air conditioner coils, dirty air vents, contaminated blower wheels, and other problems that can lead to expensive repairs. Incorporating duct cleaning into your regular maintenance routine can prolong the lifespan of your HVAC system.

Did you know? On average, a single duct cleaning process results in the removal of approximately six pounds of dust and other debris from the home.

How Often Should Air Ducts Require Cleaning?

The frequency of air duct cleaning depends on several factors, such as the size of your home, the number of pets you have, and the level of indoor air pollution. As a general guideline, it is recommended to have air ducts cleaned every three to five years. 

However, it’s always a good idea to consult with a professional HVAC technician who can inspect your ducts and provide a recommendation based on your specific situation and guide you on how often you should take a dryer vent repair service.

Get Air Duct Repairing & Sweeping Service From High’s Chimney

Air duct cleaning is not a simple task that can be easily carried out by anyone. It requires specialized equipment and the expertise of skilled technicians to be done properly. Here at High’s Chimney, we have the right tools and experienced technicians to provide you with a thorough and effective cleaning of your home’s ductwork. 

Let us help you improve the air quality in your home; all you have to do is call us at 301-519-3500.

The post Does Air Duct Cleaning Make a Mess? appeared first on Highs Chimney.

Air duct cleaning and sweeping after home renovation should never be taken lightly, because you never know when there could be a giant dust bomb waiting to go into your air duct system. 

Fortunately, you can take multiple steps to minimize the impact of air duct cleaning, such as sealing vents and tapping the registers (vent cover and grills) with the help of protective coverings. 

However, if you have failed to cover your vents before renovations, and dust/debris has already settled in your air ducts, then take swift action to clean up the mess. 

Air duct cleaning is important to ensure that your indoor air quality is healthy and safe.

If you are still unclear about the needfulness of duct cleaning, then this blog is for you. It will clear all your doubts and help you make informed decisions about air duct cleaning.  

Is Cleaning Air Ducts Worth it Right After a Home Renovation?

Yes! Due to the massive amounts of dust raised during such projects, you must clean your ducts immediately after finishing a home renovation. The dust particles are very likely to become trapped in your duct, and as  a result, duct cleaning is required.

So, knowing that you need duct cleaning services after renovation, here is why it’s beneficial for your home’s indoor environment.  

Why Do You Need Air Duct Cleaning? 

Air duct cleaning is essential for several reasons, which are mentioned below; 

1. Clean debris from the duct
2. Prevent allergic reactions
3. Increased energy efficiency
4. Extended HVAC system lifespan
5. Improves air quality
6. Eliminates unpleasant smells 

Let’s explore these reasons one-by-one in detail. 

1. Clean Debris In the Duct

During renovations, a lot of debris and dust particles can become airborne and settle onto your air ducts’ surfaces. Also, these particles can release back into the home from the air duct’s supply registers.

That’s why it’s essential to make sure that your home is free of these potentially harmful substances, and you should clean your air ducts once the renovation work is completed.

2. Prevent Allergic Reactions

Dust and other allergens can accumulate in your air ducts, causing respiratory issues for some people. Cleaning the ducts can help reduce allergens and improve the overall indoor environment.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reported that there is a possibility that some of these contaminants/clogged ducts can cause allergic reactions or other symptoms in human beings if they are exposed to it. 

To avoid severe health issues in this regard, you must get air duct cleaning services to prevent allergies! 

3. Increased Energy Efficiency

Significant mold growth can be seen on the hard surfaces, such as sheet metal, of your air ducts or on other components of your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system. The buildup of dust and debris in the ducts makes it harder for the system to circulate air, leading to increased energy costs.

Cleaning the ducts can help improve the efficiency of your HVAC system and lower your energy bills, as per EPA reports.

4. Extended HVAC System Lifespan 

Dust and dirt buildup in your air ducts can damage your HVAC system over time because they can stick to your duct surface and clog up your air filter. 

Therefore, if you take air duct cleaning or HVAC repair services, you can extend your system’s life and prevent costly repairs.

5. Improves Air Quality

Over time, dust, dirt, and other contaminants can all collect in your air ducts and affect the indoor air quality. Cleaning the ducts can remove these pollutants and improve the air you breathe.

6. Eliminates Unpleasant Smells 

By getting your air ducts cleaned, you can resolve several problems and improve indoor air quality. Duct cleaning can eliminate unpleasant odors from sources such as animal and insect droppings, cigarette smoke, accumulated dust, and mold.

How Air Duct Cleaning Works?

The air duct cleaning process involves these seven steps that can help get rid of contaminants like dust, dirt, and other particles.

1. Inspection: The first step in air duct cleaning is to inspect the ducts to determine the extent of the contamination, and decide the appropriate cleaning method according to the needs.
2. Disconnection of ducts: To clean the air ducts, the HVAC system must be turned off, and the ducts must be disconnected from the main unit.
3. Clearing debris: Once the ducts are disconnected, a powerful vacuum is used to remove any debris or dust that has accumulated inside the ducts. It may include things like cobwebs, dirt, and pet hair.
4. Cleaning the ducts: Next, the inside of the ducts is thoroughly cleaned using specialized tools, such as brushes and compressed air, to remove any remaining debris and contaminants.
5. Reassembling the ducts: After cleaning, the ducts are reassembled, reconnected to the HVAC system, and tested! 
6. Final cleaning: The entire HVAC system is cleaned and vacuumed to ensure no dust or debris remains to avoid future issues! 
7. Sanitizing: If necessary, the ducts may be sanitized to kill mold and bacteria and deodorized to remove any unpleasant odors.

However, some specific tools are required to clean your ducts, and you should be aware of them or else it is best to hire air duct cleaners.    

What Equipment Is Needed For Duct Cleaning?

Cleaning air ducts require specialized tools and equipment, which include:

• Heavy-duty gloves, mask, and goggles. 
• New air filter.
• Stiff bristle brush or vent brush. 
• Drill-powered duct brush.
• Powerful vacuum with a long hose.
• Power drill or a screwdriver
• Clean clothes/ paper towels or rags
• Leaf blower (optional)

Reasons Why to Avoid a DIY Air Duct Cleaning On Your Own

DIY air duct cleaning may sound like an appealing way to save money, but it is not recommended to do it on your own for several reasons. 

1. Lack of proper equipment to initiate the air duct cleaning, and there might be a chance you are unable to clean it properly.
2. It can be dangerous, as it involves crawling into tight spaces and handling heavy equipment. If you don’t have the proper training or experience, you can put yourself at risk of injury.
3. Identifying and cleaning all the areas that need special attention can be difficult. 
4. You may accidentally damage your ductwork while cleaning it, which can lead to leaks, lower air quality, and higher energy bills.

 

What to Expect from Dryer Vent Repair & Cleaning Service?

When you get the dryer vent repair from High’s Chimney, you can expect a thorough cleaning of your ducts to remove dust, debris, and other contaminants. This service will ensure that your dryer vent is functioning optimally and safely. 

The process typically starts with an inspection of your ducts to assess the level of contamination and identify the areas that require special attention. 

Our air duct cleaning team will use specialized tools, such as high-powered vacuum cleaners, brushes, and air compressors, to remove dust and debris from the ducts. And in some cases, sanitizer or disinfectant may be used to eliminate bacteria, mold, and other harmful contaminants. 

After finalizing the cleaning, our specialists will reassemble the duct system to conduct the final inspection to ensure that the ducts are clean and free of debris. 

We ensure that you are completely satisfied with the cleaning process. 

Below, we are giving you a post-air duct cleaning consumer checklist, which will help you rate our services.  

Checklist	Questions	YES	NO
General	Did the team clean the entire HVAC system, incl. ducts, components, pans, humidifiers, coils, and fans?  Has the team adequately demonstrated duct work and plenums are clean?
Heating	Is the surface of the heat exchanger visibly clean?
Cooling	Is the cooling exchanger visibly clean?  Is the flashlight into the cooling coil? Are coil fins straight/even, is the drain pan clean/draining properly?
Blower	Is the blower clean, the blades free of oil/debris, and the compartment free of visible dust/debris?
Metal Ducts	Are interior duct surfaces free of visible debris (randomly selected return/supply side)?
Air Vent	Are the diffusers, grilles, and registers cleaned and securely reattached?
System Operations	Does the system work properly in heating and cooling modes after cleaning the air duct?

Get Your Air Ducts Cleaned With High’s Chimney Professional Sweeping Services!

In conclusion, it is imperative to have your air ducts cleaned right after home renovation to maintain a healthy and comfortable living or working environment. Cleaning air ducts helps remove dust, debris, and other contaminants, thereby improving indoor air quality and increasing the longevity of your heating and cooling system.

So if you have recently renovated your home and haven’t got the air ducts cleaned then why wait? Get professional air duct cleaning service from High’s Chimney by calling 301-519-3500 and breathe easier knowing that your home or office is healthy and comfortable.  

The post Air Duct Cleaning After Renovation – Essential or Overrated? appeared first on Highs Chimney.

Drafts are a driving force that is pulling the smoke up your chimney which allows the fire to burn effectively in your fireplace or wood stove. A fireplace or wood stove with a poor draft is going to make it hard to get a fire going and causes smoke to roll out in front of your wood stove or fireplace. Smoke that rolls out of your fireplace or wood stove is unpleasant and it causes soot stains on the ceiling and walls. This is also going to cause the smell of your home like soot and smoke. When you improve the draft of your wood stove or fireplace, it will ensure that all smoke will vent out of your home properly. You should not have to call chimney repair often if you follow these tips:

Start with a Fast and Hot Fire

When you start a fire with pieces of fast-burning wood types, and lighter blocks, a warm air that flows through the chimney will develop quickly. The warmth creates the fireplace draft and keeps the fire going. You should use the reverse or Swiss lighting method. There is better firewood combustion when it is lit from the top to bottom.

Burn Very Low Moisture Wood

The key to having a hot, fast fire is to burn the wood with 20% or lower moisture. Wood has a high moisture content that is going to burn slowly and lose the majority of wood efficiency. Basically, the fire is boiling excess moisture off before the wood can reach full combustion. Moist wood makes the top-down fire-stating method very hard. A good draft is going to start a well-lit fire.

Only Burn Wood Which Dried for Two Years

If you burn wet wood, it is harder to get a good fire going and keep it burning. After you light the fire with wood types and fast-burning materials, you should feed the fire with slow-burning wood like beech, oak, birch, and fruit tree wood. These kinds of wood should be dried for at least two years so it can burn well-drawing fire. You should not use fast-burning wood types (willow, pine, alder) in this firing phase because it leads to an output of dangerous sparks. Heating with wet wood is not eco-friendly because there are high amounts of emissions.

 Warm the Flue

Among the best ways to power up the draft in a cold chimney is to heat and prime up the flue. In cold climates, you might have to establish a draft. A cold chimney is able to create a cold bubble that blocks the flue and draft. If you are trying to start a fire with a cold chimney, you might fill your home with smoke since the chimney is very cold. The fire heat cannot overtake the cold flue that causes a smoky fireplace or wood stove.

Open the Window and Shut off the Kitchen Exhaust Hood

Open fireplace consumes about 250-250m of air an hour for combustion gas exhaust and burns off the wood. In homes that are well-insulated, the movement of a lot of air presents a problem quickly. This is going to create reverse pressure, and the smoke will soon enter your house. The reverse pressure can also be made by a kitchen exhaust hood in a home with proper insulation. You can naturally open the window, but it is an unattractive solution during winter. The oven extraction from your oven can influence the draft of your fireplace as well when you do this.

You can contact chimney relining Ellicott City anytime if you need to have your chimney inspected.

 

The post How to Increase Chimney Draft first appeared on First Class Chimney Services.

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