Soon autumn will be here and you’ll be doing all those great fall activities: raking leaves, going on hikes, and watching football games. State fairs are going on, and isn’t that food great? Not to mention, the kids are back in school and involved in lots of activities! It would really be nice to have some of those necessary, but not so fun jobs done already. One of those jobs would be to call and schedule your annual chimney inspection and cleaning.
Inspection and Cleaning
You may be wondering how often it’s necessary to have your chimney inspected and cleaned. Inspections should take place on an annual basis. Most experts agree that cleanings should be done when there is an ⅛ inch build up in your chimney. This is one thing that your chimney inspector will be looking for. Since the term ‘chimney inspector’ has been used, let’s talk qualifications for a good chimney inspector.
The first thing you should know? The highest accreditation that your chimney inspector can have is through the Chimney Safety Institute of America. The CSIA website gives details of what to look for in a chimney inspector: How long have they been in business? Do they have valid liability insurance? Have there been valid complaints filed against them? Can they provide references?
What Are They Looking For?
Your chimney specialist will be looking for several things. One of these is obstructions that could potentially start a fire. Something that is notorious for causing a blockage is bird or animal nests. Chimneys make excellent places for creatures to build nests; they’re small, warm, dark, out of the way of other predators, and out of the way of wind and weather. Unfortunately, when the babies are out of the nest and the parent animals move out. Leaving the nests to remain, a potential fire hazard can happen when you use your fireplace in the winter months!
Another potential fire hazard is creosote. When you use your fireplace, the smoke that is released up the chimney is composed of water vapor, a variety of gases, and a variety of chemicals. When the smoke hits the cool top part of your chimney, it condenses and forms creosote. This substance is highly flammable, especially as it builds up! Your chimney inspector will be able to determine how much creosote you have, and whether you need to have the chimney cleaned.
Another thing that your inspector will be looking for is any damage that might need to be repaired. If there is anything that might be causing instability in your chimney, your inspector will recommend the necessary repairs.
CSIA Certification
Do you live in north-central Ohio and are looking for top rated, professional, courteous CSIA certified chimney specialists? If so, give Chim Cheroo Chimney Service a call today to set up your annual inspection and cleaning. Then go out and enjoy the beautiful autumn season!