What is the problem with your chimney? The odds are you’ve only gotten around to lighting one or two fires this season. Maybe it was difficult to light or sent too much smoke into your home. Perhaps you heard a roaring fire in the chimney, or it stinks after the fire is out. Whatever the issue is–it IS an issue. Your fireplace should work properly, and if it’s giving you trouble, it’s a problem with the system or how you’re using it. Continuing to use a fireplace that isn’t working properly can be a recipe for disaster leading to accidental fire, health emergencies, property loss, and even death.
Proper Fuel
Your system is designed to burn a specific fuel type and nothing else should be burned in it. Period. Your wood-burning appliance should only burn properly-seasoned wood. Do not burn paper, leaves, trash, or clothes. Your gas fire should never be used to burn other items either. Burning improper fuel can damage your liner, lead to flue fires, and put your family and home at risk.
Damaged Parts
If your fireplace isn’t working properly it may be due to damaged parts. A damper that is rusted or otherwise damaged may not allow your fire to vent properly. If your fireplace is smoky every time it’s lit, despite your best efforts to correct it, you may need to have it checked out by a professional. If there is no damage present, there is likely a draft issue, a fuel problem, or a flue-sized issue. Do not let it go. You may be seeing only a small issue that is a big hazard. A small amount of visible smoke in the home may be causing you to breathe microscopic particles and carbon monoxide.
Prevention = Safety
You can prevent and solve problems by scheduling routine appointments such as inspections and sweeps. Many of your chimney issues are due to a dirty system or unknown factors such as damage or leaks. Pristine Sweeps can diagnose your chimney issues quickly and easily. We can help you troubleshoot all the chimney problems that are keeping you from your beautiful hearth and warm home this season. According to the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), the safest and most efficient chimneys are those that are swept regularly and inspected annually. Having the chimney system cleaned will ensure it works efficiently, vents properly, and optimizes the fuel for the best heat. Having it inspected means the system is hazard-free and all parts are in working order for the season ahead.
Before you hire an amateur for your chimney issues, troubleshoot for yourself. If that doesn’t fix your problem, it’s time to call in the professionals.
A Pristine Sweeps professional is a phone call away! Just call 206-574-8414 and get started today.