In case you have noticed water that is trickling at the bottom of your fireplace or critters getting into the property, you might need professionals. In case this happens when it snows or rains, there can be a problem with the chimney. For those homes that can effectively prevent rain and snow from coming down your chimney, they use a chimney capping cowl.

Snow is a sign of freezing temperatures and slushy conditions while the snow melts. These thawing and freezing cycles can affect the chimney masonry very badly. You can pay for chimney cleaning services to help keep snow out of your chimney. You can read this article until the end to know more.

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Use a Chimney Crown

A chimney crown is placed on the chimney opening outside your house to prevent moisture and debris from going into the flue. Since this component is an outdoor element, it goes through damage while it ages.

If the chimney crown breaks or cracks, it cannot perform its job effectively. This is the defensive tactic to prevent snow from pouring down inside the structure and going into your home. When you are inspecting the chimney at the beginning of the season, make sure that you are also checking for crown damage. This component should be replaced if you see breaks so you can protect the structure during winter.

Chimney Flashing

The chimney has a metal part and it is mainly a waterproof seal between the chimney and the roof. Installation is hard to perfect. It is not strange for a chimney leak to be the exact result of damaged or improperly installed flashing. Ensuring the chimney flashing’s effectiveness is one of the reasons why you should schedule a yearly chimney inspection based on recommendations.

Weatherproof Your Chimney

The masonry will hold the chimney bricks together, which is very porous, making it prone to moisture. The more water your chimney absorbs, the higher chance it will erode and break down. Waterproofing materials can easily be added to the exterior of the chimney to prevent moisture from penetrating. After a chimney inspection that has deemed your structure to be very sound, you need to have a clean exterior cleaned and contact a professional to apply weatherproofing.

You must also take note that chimneys with moisture-proof stones can still be damaged by water. That is because they need a mortar base between stones to create the chimney structure.

Repair the Mortar

The brick and mortar are an important part of holding the chimney together. The mortar is responsible for connecting each brick. While your chimney can last a long time, the mortar’s lifespan is shorter. In case this begins to crack or flake away, it will create moisture and water paths so that it can seep into your chimney and brick.

If you see cracks in the mortar, you do not really have to rebuild a part of the structure. You will find companies that offer chimney repair services where technicians will do a thorough check that got damaged or cracked to save you money for rebuilding.

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Use a Cricket for Diverting Water

Melting snow and rainwater creates a serious run-off that will likely sweep past the chimney. Protecting it from the flow is important to structural integrity. The easiest way is to install a diverter called a cricket. It can simply be fixed so that means there is a difference between the chimney standing tall or water folding when under pressure.

You can contact chimney sweep  anytime before winter to have your chimney cleaned and inspected.    

Call Us at 877-959-3534 for Chimney Service

The post How to Keep Snow from Going Inside Your Chimney first appeared on First Class Chimney Services.

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

Think about your ideal Christmas scene. It likely includes a sparkling tree with presents underneath, your family snuggled together on the couch, and a warm fire crackling in the fireplace. We can almost guarantee it does not include an accidental fire from unsafe elements and the arrival of an entire crew of firemen followed by potential damage to your beautiful Christmas celebration. Fireplace safety during the holidays is extremely important. Here are some tips to keep you and your family safe.

Hang your stockings with care

That picture-perfect Christmas image usually includes stockings full of goodies adorning the mantle. Unfortunately, this can be a safety hazard. Specifically, if there are less than three feet between your stockings and your burning fire, a spark could escape and quickly lead to a quickly burning fire.

To be as safe as possible, we’d advise you to find an alternate location for your stockings. At the very least, you will want to remove them from the mantle before lighting a fire. This three-foot rule extends to your tree, presents, and some of your decorative holiday pieces as well. Give your fire space to keep your family safe.

Use fire-resistant decor

Now to be clear, we aren’t saying that you should leave your fireplace and mantle empty this season. After all, we know it is typically the focal point of a room, especially during the holiday season!

Rather, we encourage each of our Northeastern Chimney customers to choose decor that is labeled fire-resistant to safely decorate your room. This doesn’t mean these won’t catch fire if placed too close but that they are less likely to accidentally ignite. The three-foot rule and other safety measures should still be practiced.

Tree safety

Another item that should be a safe distance from your fireplace is your tree. If you choose an artificial tree, ensure it is labeled as fire-resistant. If you have a real tree, keep it watered regularly as the heat from your fireplace will dry your tree out faster. In addition, if you’re using a real tree, even your Christmas lights can slowly dry it out. This is yet another reason to keep it fully watered all season long.

Consider a spark guard

If you have an open hearth, adding a spark guard is another excellent safety decision. This will help keep loose sparks and embers from entering your home. You can buy simple guards that can be left in place all year or look for ones that are Christmas-themed to add to your festive decor.

Ring in the holidays with fireplace safety

One last tip, keep a fire extinguisher handy! As we all know, we can do everything to prepare but fires can quickly get out of control. In addition, a chimney full of creosote can spark quickly, so if you don’t know the last time your chimney was cleaned and/or inspected, give us a call.

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

If your chimney is full of soot and debris, you might be looking for an easy and fast way to clean it. Chimney cleaning logs certainly seem to fit the bill – they are easy to find at your local home improvement store and are intended to clean your chimney just by burning it. But do cleaning logs really work? Let’s take a look at some of the pros and cons of chimney cleaning logs.

How do chimney cleaning logs work?

Cleaning logs contain chemicals that are designed to loosen soot and creosote buildup in your chimney so that it flakes off and is easier to sweep away. Creosote is a natural by-product of wood-burning fires, and it builds up in particularly large quantities if you are using freshly chopped wood.

Many people think that cleaning logs completely remove all debris from your chimney, but this is actually a common misconception. In fact, you’ll still need to manually sweep and remove debris from the chimney – you just won’t have to worry about it sticking to the walls.

Call Us at 877-959-3534 for Chimney Service

Pros of Cleaning Logs

The biggest advantage of cleaning logs is how easy they are to use. They’re designed for use with any wood-burning fire and are quick and easy to light. They’re also a simple shape that will fit well in most chimneys.

Cleaning logs are also very safe to use. As with any fire, you should always monitor them while they are in use. When you’re not using them, you can store them safely with your normal firewood. Affordable prices make it easy to stock up on them.

Cons of Cleaning Logs

The biggest disadvantage of cleaning logs is that they will not completely clean your chimney on their own. You will still need to sweep away all of the soot, creosote flakes, and other debris after the cleaning log has finished burning. You’ll also need to use cleaning logs fairly regularly, as creosote can build up quickly.

Additionally, cleaning logs are not a viable substitute for a professional cleaning. Professional chimney sweeps are much more thorough than a cleaning log. In addition to removing all of the debris built up in your chimney, they can also check for any potential chimney structural issues and recommend any necessary repairs. Ideally, you should have your chimney cleaned professionally at least once per year to keep it in good condition.

No matter what method you use, it’s important to clean your chimney regularly to avoid buildup, which can be a fire hazard. Cleaning logs paired with a regular professional cleaning is an easy way to make sure your chimney stays in great shape so you can enjoy your fireplace all winter long.

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

Call Us at 877-959-3534 for Chimney Service

If you are thinking of a wood stove, you should be thinking about the chimney after that. The best quality stove, furnaces, boilers, water heaters, and more can also perform well when they are connected to a chimney. They will work together as one system. The chimney will drive the system by exhausting flue gases from your stove and it simultaneously pulls fresh combustion air into your stove. The continuous air supply is important when it comes to maintaining a steady fire. That air supply depends on the chimney’s ability to exhaust any flue gases because they are produced by the stove combustion.

You can read on until the end if you want to know more before contacting chimney inspection if you think something is wrong.

Flow

The most basic in chimney design is based on the fact that hot air rises. The higher the temperature difference between exhaust fumes/gases in your chimney and the air outside, the gas rises at a faster pace. This is a natural movement of exhaust fumes that goes up the chimney draft. For it to have enough draft to maintain the right combustion, there is a particular volume of gases that should move through your chimney. This is known as the flow, and if the draft is stronger, the flow is greater.

Kind of Filter

There are three kinds of filters in any modern chimney – Cassette Filter, Baffle Filter, and Charcoal Filter. For an Indian kitchen, the Baffle Filter is the best because it removes oil and spice particles coming from the air and it keeps high suction power. A cassette filter has tiny holes in the aluminum mesh that will trap particles and it purifies the air. Charcoal filters have a layer that takes out odors and you can use it with Baffle and Cassette filters.

Size

The right kitchen chimney should be the same size as the stove or larger, but it should never be smaller. A chimney with a size of 60 cm is better for a 2 to 4-burner stove, and 90 cm is great for a 3 to 5-burner stove. In case the chimney size is smaller compared to a stove/hob, some cooking fumes can escape the direct suction power and spreads in the kitchen.

Mounting Style

There are three mounting styles that you can choose from, which depend on your kitchen’s construction and available space. It should be built-in, an island, or wall-mounted. Based on the name, wall-mounted chimneys can be fitted on the wall and they are ideal for kitchens where there is a cooking stove against the wall. Your island chimney is great for modern homes where the cooking stove is in the middle of your kitchen. This is perfect for small kitchens, and a built-in chimney is compact and fixed, integrated into the kitchen woodwork so it will not take up additional space.

Suction Capacity

Kitchen hoods are available with suction capacities that are between 700 m3/hr to 1600 m3/hr. The rule is that more cooking requires higher suction capacity. In addition, since a lot of households have a family of four and can cook three meals daily, it consists of spicy, vegetarian, and non-vegetarian dishes. It is suggested that you invest in a chimney that has more than 1200 m3/hr suction power.

Maintenance

Make sure that you buy a chimney from a good brand that has free installation and quick after-sales service. Since they are doing a lot of heavy-duty work, chimneys need regular maintenance.

Call Us at 877-959-3534 for Chimney Service

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

Call Us at 877-959-3534 for Chimney Service

Fireplace dampers come in two varieties: a throat damper, which is located just above the firebox, and a top-mount damper, which is installed on the exterior of the chimney at the top. In both cases, dampers are very important when you’re using your fireplace as well as when you’re not. Fluesbrothers Chimney & Fireplace of Kansas City, KS, would like to share some helpful information about getting the most out of your fireplace damper.

The purpose of a damper

A damper is a device with a plate system that opens and closes with a handle that’s located somewhere near your fireplace and is easy to access. The primary purpose of a fireplace damper is to regulate the flow of air when starting and maintaining a fire in the fireplace. A secondary purpose is to seal off the exchange of air between the home and the outside when the fireplace isn’t in use.

Correct damper operation

When you’re starting a fire, the damper should be fully open. If it’s particularly cold outside, hold a lit rolled-up newspaper beyond the damper and into the flue to warm the air. Super-cold flue air is heavy and will hinder the drafting of warmer, lighter smoky air from the fireplace. When the flue is warmed up a little, keep the damper open and light your kindling to get the logs burning. During this time, a fully open damper will provide enough draft air to allow the logs to combust properly and completely. Once your fire is burning well, adjust the opening of the damper to control the vibrancy of the fire. A little less air will slow the combustion; more air will make the fire more robust.

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When you’re finished using the fireplace

After the fire has died down and no more smoke and flames are visible, you should shut the damper completely. This will prevent warm air from the house and radiant heat from the fireplace from escaping up the chimney. At any time the fireplace isn’t in use, it’s good practice to keep the damper closed. There are several reasons for this.

• Keeps conditioned house air from escaping
• Keeps non-conditioned outside air from moving in
• Helps to prevent chimney odors from entering the house
• Provides a barrier against the intrusion of squirrels, birds, rodents and other small animals

A note on top-mount dampers

Top-mount dampers do the same job as throat dampers where fires are concerned, but they also add a layer of protection at the top of your chimney to keep out moisture, debris and animals. If you use a throat damper, it’s a good idea to have a full-width chimney cap installed at the top of your chimney. This device will keep things out of the flue.

When to call for damper service

A squeaky or difficult-to-move damper needs to be looked at. Cleaning or repair work might solve the problem. If the damper is severely rusted out or otherwise damaged, it should be replaced. The fireplace damper is an important part of your overall fireplace/chimney system. It should be inspected once a year along with all other parts of the system to ensure safe, efficient operation.

Call Us at 877-959-3534 for Chimney Service

The post How Dampers Control Fires and Air Flow appeared first on Fluesbrothers Chimney Service.

Winter storms can wreak havoc with chimneys. In the Midwest, we regularly see powerful storms that bring snow, wind, hail and ice to our cities and towns. Fluesbrothers Chimney & Fireplace of Kansas City, KS, would like to share four important tips for getting your chimney ready for whatever winter brings.

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Tip 1: Have your chimney inspected

Before the cold season starts, schedule a chimney inspection with a licensed chimney technician. You can do your own visual inspection, but a trained technician will be able to see things you can’t. A proper inspection will turn up areas that need repair and parts that need replacing. Having the inspection done in the summer or early fall will allow plenty of time for any work that might be necessary.

Tip 2: Install a custom full-width chimney cap

If there’s no cap on the top of your chimney, your flue is open to all sorts of stuff you don’t want in there. Rain, hail and snow will move into your chimney and can easily begin a cycle of water damage to the flue liner, interior masonry, smoke chamber, fireplace damper and other parts of the system. Along with keeping out winter storm elements, a full-width chimney cap will do two other things for you:

• Prevent small animals from taking refuge in your chimney
• Protect the concrete chimney crown from damage that will send water to the interior areas of your chimney

Call Us at 877-959-3534 for Chimney Service

Tip 3: Consider a top-mount damper

A top mount damper does much the same job as a standard throat damper located just above the firebox. But it also allows you to seal off the top of the chimney when the fireplace isn’t in use.This is beneficial when you want extra protection against moisture inside the chimney flue. Another benefit is that top mount dampers have mesh siding to keep fiery sparks and embers from jumping out of your chimney.

Tip 4: Waterproof your chimney

Two of the biggest reasons for service calls to chimney companies are masonry damage and leaky chimneys. When bricks become loose or cracked, and when mortar joints begin to crumble, trouble is almost always on the way. Damaged masonry will allow water from winter storms (and water from any kind of storm at any time of year) to infiltrate and begin a cycle of chimney deterioration. Severely damaged masonry can lead to major problems throughout the chimney system and eventually cause a chimney to collapse. Your masonry can be protected by having your chimney technician apply a waterproofing sealant. This will keep water away from the bricks and mortar and out of any cracked or decayed areas. Because the sealant is “vapor-permeable,” it will allow naturally occurring moisture to escape the seal and not build up against the masonry.

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The post How to Prepare Your Chimney for Winter Storms appeared first on Fluesbrothers Chimney Service.

Do you have a drafty chimney? If so, this is most likely a major disappointment. After all, your fireplace is supposed to add value to your home and keep your house warm and cozy during the cold winter months. The good news is that there are ways to stop a drafty chimney.

If your chimney has been drafty or if you are in need of any chimney service, our team is here to help.

We will now explain some possible causes of drafty chimneys, along with how to stop your chimney from being drafty.

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Causes of Drafts and How to Stop a Drafty Chimney

Here are some reasons why your chimney may be drafty and tactics for preventing drafts.

Chimney Cap and Damper Problems

Downdrafts are frequently the cause of a drafty chimney. Downdrafts happen when cold air from outside is able to enter the chimney and travel downward into your home.

If you do not already have a chimney cap, we recommend having one installed. Not only can a chimney cap help with downdrafts, especially with wind-induced draft issues,  but it will also keep animals and debris out of your chimney, keeping it more clear and helping to prevent dangerous blockages. If you already have a chimney cap, but it is old, it is possible that it needs to be replaced. Check out our ultimate chimney cap guide to learn more. 

Your chimney damper may also be causing this problem if it is old or not ideally positioned. Many chimneys have throat dampers, which are usually just above the firebox. These are too close to the fire and therefore unable to seal tightly enough. We recommend having a top sealing damper installed to ensure a tight seal and prevent downdrafting. 

Incorrect Usage

Sometimes, draftyness is caused by homeowners not using their chimneys correctly. Here are some tips for correct usage that will prevent drafts: 

• Close your chimney’s damper when it is not being used
• Before starting your fire, prime the flue (view our blog about how to start a fire in a fireplace for instructions) 
• Make sure that your chimney has been recently swept. Having dirty connectors from the fireplace/stove to the chimney can cause issues. We recommend having your chimney swept annually. 

Consider Installing a Fireplace Insert

Fireplace inserts are an option in both wood burning or gas. Inserts for wood burning are placed inside the firebox, so you’re not using any additional floor space, and usually have blowers that circulate the heat to nearby rooms. Inserts for gas fireplaces are super efficient and allow you to turn on/off and adjust temperature via remote control keeping your home nicely heated. 

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The post How to Stop a Drafty Chimney appeared first on Boston’s Best Chimney.

As the seasons change — you need to be ready for the season, and your fireplace becomes dormant until the fall. It is the perfect time to undergo yearly gas fireplace maintenance to avoid any problems with your fireplace.

Maintenance is crucial for the longevity of your fireplace and its safe operation. However, it is best to perform fireplace maintenance by professionals because if any of the gas components get damaged, it can be potentially dangerous.

For gas fireplace servicing, you must contact High’s Chimney Service in Maryland, Washington, DC, or Virginia. At the time of the visit, we will inspect the venting, corrosion, excessive condensation, proper fittings, and mutual connections.

Today, gas fireplaces have outpaced traditional wood-burning fireplaces, and homeowners appreciate them because they run on natural gas and are also healthier for the environment.

 

Types of Gas Fireplaces

There are two primary types of gas fireplaces; freestanding and insert-type. Both fireplaces can be installed with a relatively simple process. They require proper upkeep and regular maintenance to prevent damage to your gas fireplace or chimney.

Difference Between Freestanding and Insert-type Fireplaces

Freestanding Fireplace: This fireplace does not require a unique installation space but must have its chimney to bring the heat and smoke from the fire out of the room.

Insert-type Fireplace: It typically can be installed into a wall opening or other space and share a chimney with another structure.

If you need a fireplace in Frederick, MD, or nearby areas, then you have come to the right place, High’s Chimney Service. We can help you with everything from minor repairs to complete overhauls. Further, in this particular service, we will provide you with the following;

• gas fireplace installation
• gas fireplace repair 
• gas fireplace cleaning 

This Winter, are you planning to install Regency Fireplaces? So if you need more clarification about the regency fireplace prices. Then, please call 301-519-3500.  

Learn What To Do For Gas Fireplace Maintenance and Servicing

No matter what type of fireplace you have in your home, it’s always wise to know a few tips about keeping it in good shape.

Here are the 8 major steps that are required for gas fireplace maintenance. 

1. Inspection & Cleaning 

Gas fireplace inspections ensure they are in good condition; however, you must take the fireplace repair service yearly. Also, there are a few things you have to keep monitoring: 

• Is the unit adequately mounted or not?
• Does the fireplace have any gaps or cracks in the structure?
• Is there a gas leak in your house?
• Do you feel any odor coming from your fireplace?

2. Check The Fireplace Logs 

It includes logs made from ceramic or cement, which can deteriorate over time. Most often, their color will start to fade. The good news is that they can be swapped out without replacing the fireplace.

If there are any obstructions on the fireplace logs, you can remove them by using a fireplace poker or fireplace tongs. Once the obstruction is removed, check to see if the logs are still burning.

However, if they are not, place a new log on the fire and add more wood as needed.

3. Check The Chimney & Ensure It’s Perfectly Functional

If your home’s heating and ventilation are not working properly, a chimney inspection may help you to identify the problem. It can also ensure that the chimney is working properly or not. Even highlight the area that needs any necessary repairs required. 

However, the inspection includes the external chimney structure and the interior walls in front of and around the chimney.

In gas fireplaces, usually, the biggest threat is condensation in the chimney. The significant signs of a compromised chimney are

• Damp patches on the walls
• Stains on the Ceiling 
• Or white blotches on exterior masonry

Get the chimney sweep service today if your chimney isn’t functioning properly to avoid any hazardous issues. 

4. Check The Gas Ignition

There are a few steps you have to take while inspecting the gas ignition.

• First, test-fire the ignition under the logs and make sure it lights correctly. Make sure you place the wood-burning stove in the perfect position for optimal efficiency.
• Turn off the gas, then check all the valves and connections in the fuel system for any evidence of carbon monoxide and remove any such evidence, then wipe down the valves and connections with a dry cloth.
• Look for gas leaks. The smell will be the best indicator; if you are not sure, then brush some water mixed with dish soap over the lines, valves, and ports and watch for bubbles — it will highlight the point from where the gas is leaking.

5. Install & Maintain The Right Accessories

If you have a gas fireplace, installing and maintaining the right accessories is essential. It includes a carbon monoxide detector, a smoke alarm, and a fire extinguisher. All these accessories will help keep you and your family safe in an emergency.

However, don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any questions about maintaining your gas fireplace. 

6. Vacuum The Interior & Clean The Glass

Another thing is to vacuum the interior of the fireplace regularly. It will help you to remove dirt or debris that has accumulated.

Additionally, mix 1 cup of vinegar with 8 cups of water to clean the glass on the fireplace door. Pour the solution onto a cloth and use it to clean the glass.

7. Check Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Whatever type of fireplace you have in your, make sure your carbon monoxide detectors are working properly in accessories.

Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that can be deadly if inhaled. However, the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning include; headaches, dizziness, and nausea. If you think you may be experiencing symptoms, get out of the house immediately and call 911.

8. Regular Fireplace Servicing

It’s essential to have your gas fireplace regularly serviced to ensure it’s operating safely and efficiently. 

Book an appointment with a qualified technician at High’s Chimney Service, we will inspect the fireplace and chimney, clean the burner and perform any necessary repairs.

Book an Appointment  Today For Gas Fireplace Inspection

Follow these tips to ensure that your fireplace remains in good condition to keep your home warm through the Winter.

If you live in Maryland and are searching online for gas fireplace experts near me. Then, call and book an appointment for fireplace repair at High’s Chimney Service by calling 301-519-3500.

The post What You Should Know About Gas Fireplace Maintenance appeared first on Highs Chimney.

Chimney fires can become deadly. Even if chimneys can withstand high temperatures and prevent a fire from spreading throughout your home, they might also fail if the chimney creosote catches fire. Creosotes are a very flammable chemical compound that can build up in the chimney. A stray spark or high chimney temperature ignites it. Chimney fires are fueled by creosote and can reach 2,000 degrees F. This causes the chimney liner to start cracking and allows the flames to spread in your home.

Since creosote is flammable and can probably create the biggest hazard when you use a fireplace, you should try to minimize how much buildup occurs. Failure to get rid of creosote from the flue results in a chimney fire. You might have to contact a chimney repair service.

Call Us at 877-959-3534 for Chimney Service

Defining Creosote

Creosote is a kind of soot that forms in your chimney while you use your wood-burning fireplace. The wood will burn and create smoke that can contain creosote. In case the smoke does not rise quickly enough, the creosote will accumulate inside your chimney.

Creosote will start off to be somewhat easy to remove and clean. However, while it builds up, it can develop into a tar-like substance.

Creosote Buildup Has Three Stages

Stage 1 – It comprises thin flake layers. When you first use your wood stoves or fireplace, the smoke leaves some creosote deposits. During this time, the issue is not yet urgent, but it can cause problems over time.

If you do not remove the creosote at this point, it can go into the second stage. While you can still solve stage 1 creosote with the use of at-home products, you will find stage 2 harder.

Stage 2 – In stage 2, the creosote starts to look like tar. It can look like flakes, but you are unable to remove it as easily as before. You might have to remove it using tools, but you must consider contacting a chimney sweep if you want to get rid of it all.

Your fireplace and chimney can be salvaged, but you should act right away. This way, the creosote will not go to the third stage.

Stage 3 – This is a stage you must avoid at all costs. Stage 3 creosote is challenging to clean, and it is a very concentrated fuel that can resemble a coating of tar that drips down in your chimney liner. This kind of glazed creosote becomes thick while it hardens and is repeatedly coated using another layer. A hot fire easily ignites this kind of creosote, which is very hazardous. If stage 3 catches fire, it becomes easily removable because it will leave behind spongy residue. However, a chimney fire can cause a house fire as well.

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How to Avoid Creosote Buildup

• You should only burn seasoned and dry firewood.
• Never use artificial logs for burning
• Build clean and hot burning fires
• Make sure the fire gets enough oxygen
• Warm up a cold flue to reduce condensation
• Schedule a yearly chimney cleaning service
• Make sure the fire always has sufficient airflow

How to Treat it

If you cannot minimize or prevent chimney creosote buildup, there are a few treatment options available. You can use at-home products so you can get rid of stage 1 creosote. The logs and brushes let you get rid of creosote right away, but those are not the best options.

Call Us at 877-959-3534 for Chimney Service

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

Dryer vent cleaning is a critical part of the winter season. We wear sweaters and coats that shed a little bit of their material with every wash and dry. But have you ever wondered what happens to all those little fibers as they leave your clothes? The lint catcher of course! Well…yes…and no. Let’s take a look at how a dryer vent cleaning helps your clothes and home.

What is a Dryer Vent Cleaning?

As clothes are tumbling around with hot air blowing into the machine getting dry, little fibers come off of the clothes. These fibers are (mostly) caught by the lint catcher, however, some fibers bypass the lint catcher and settle into the dryer vent. Lint, over time builds up blocking the passage of air. What can happen if you don’t get a dryer vent cleaning done?

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Clogged Dryer Vent Result #1

You know you need a dryer vent cleaning when it takes too long for the clothes to dry. You go to the dryer thinking that everything is ready to be hung on a hanger or folded to be put away, and instead you find that your clothes are still too damp. An hour isn’t long enough? Not if your dryer vent is clogged up with lint.

Clogged Dryer Vent Result #2

You’ve noticed that you’re telling everyone to turn off the lights when you’re not in the room. But everyone is looking at you weird, “we’re not doing anything different.” Your significant other says, “I’m at work!” What could be increasing the electric bill? You probably never thought of your clothes dryer.  When it takes more time to dry, you are increasing your electric bill for every minute spent.

Clogged Dryer Vent Result #3

Fire! Now this is the biggest reason to get a dryer vent cleaning. The build up of lint in combination with the hot air can cause a fire in the dryer vent. This can cause significant damage and to your mud or utility room along with other rooms if the fire spreads quickly. According to the NFPA ( National Fire Protection Association ). washer and dryers cause an average of 15,970 fires per year costing $238 million dollars in property damage. Of course, this doesn’t include the cost of injury or life loss.

What to Do?

Once per year, a dryer vent cleaning will avoid all of the top 3 risks listed above. This is the recommendation of the NFPA in order to keep yourself, your family and home safe. Give us a call and a highly trained service technician will come to your home and clean out the dryer vent. You’d be surprised at how much builds up over time. The lint can form a solid material that surrounds the interior walls of the vent. The technician will check and clean the vents to provide safe passage of the hot air.

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