Are Chimney Cleaning Logs Safe?
Many clients ask us if creosote sweeping logs are safe to burn and if they’re an acceptable substitute for having your chimney swept in lieu of a professional sweeping. At Best Chimney, chimney safety is our number one priority, so we wanted to share our knowledge on this important topic.
Do you need a chimney sweep, inspection, or other residential or commercial chimney service in the Greater Boston, MA area? Our team has over thirty years of experience and is ready to serve you. Click here or call (781) 893-6611 to get in touch with us.
Now, we’ll share what you need to know about creosote removing logs.
What Are Creosote Sweeping Logs?
Creosote sweeping logs are designed to loosen and reduce creosote that has built up in your chimney. They are usually successful in reducing stage one creosote build up, but nothing heavier. Check out our blog on how creosote build up works if you are interested in learning more about how creosote can impact your chimney.
Essentially, the chemicals that these logs contain loosen up deposits and can allow your chimney to burn more efficiently.
Are Creosote Sweeping Logs Safe?
Under certain conditions, creosote removing logs are generally safe to use. It is recommended that the logs are burned every 50-60 fires to help chemically transform the creosote to light fly ash. Some of this ash then falls to the base where you can clean it out. This can get tricky if there is an offset in the flue where the ash can collect and actually cause a blockage. Ash can also fall on top of the damper frame preventing the mechanism from opening and closing. It is therefore essential to follow instructions closely and use caution.
Can You Replace Chimney Sweeps with Creosote Sweeping Logs?
One of the dangers of using creosote sweeping logs is that people believe that they are a substitute for regular chimney sweepings, and this is simply not the case. The National Fire Protection Association states that “Chimneys, fireplaces, and vents shall be inspected at least once a year for soundness, freedom from deposits, and correct clearances. Cleaning, maintenance, and repairs shall be done if necessary.”
In short, there is no substitute for regular inspections and sweepings. If you are diligent about having these services performed, you should not need to use creosote removing logs at all!
What to Burn to Clean Your Chimney?
As we mentioned, if you have regular inspections and sweeps, you should not need to burn creosote removing logs in between. That being said, there are guidelines on what to burn to avoid creosote build up to begin with. We recommend oak, maple, and several other options (check out our blog on the best woods for firewood to learn more). By burning the correct type of wood in your chimney, you can greatly decrease the amount of creosote produced in between inspections and sweeps and eliminate the need to even consider creosote removing logs.
Call Best Chimney for Your Chimney Needs
Have you had your chimney inspected and swept yet this year? If not, the team at Best Chimney is ready to assist you. Click here or call (781) 893-6611 to get in touch with our team for more information. Remember, by following basic chimney care tips, you can avoid creosote buildup and most importantly, keep your family and home safe.
The post Are Chimney Cleaning Logs Safe? appeared first on Boston's Best Chimney.
