When winter arrives, you’ll probably be ready to unwind with your friends or loved ones by your fireplace, especially if you’ve put up some lovely winter fireplace decor! However, you should first make sure that your chimney is secure before lighting your fireplace. We will share numerous steps you may do to ensure the security of your chimney with you.
For more than 20 years, Instant Chimney services has provided comprehensive chimney services to the Houston region. We provide a variety of chimney services for both homes and businesses. If you need a chimney service, call 832-459-3634 or click here to contact us.
How to Evaluate the Safety of Your Chimney
Here are a few methods you may take to make sure your chimney is okay to use for the current season before lighting it.
Schedule a Chimney Inspection
The first and most crucial step in the procedure. A yearly chimney inspection is advised by the Chimney Safety Institute of America. There are three different levels of inspections, and each one looks more closely for things like obstructions, leaks, cracks, and masonry problems.
By having your chimney inspected, you can be sure that it is suitable for usage this time of year.
Get a Chimney Sweep
A chimney sweep clears your chimney of undesired materials such as creosote buildup, soot, ash, and even animal nests. Any of these could accumulate and impede the chimney flue without yearly chimney sweepings, which could cause chimney fires or carbon monoxide leaks.
We strongly advise having your chimney swept by a CSIA (Chimney Safety Institute of America) certified chimney sweep. You can trust these licensed specialists with the safety of your chimney since they have completed in-depth training programs and adhere to a code of ethics.
Be Observative
Even if you are most likely not an expert in chimneys, you might be able to detect problems with your chimney. Be alert for any strange scents, animal noises, ceiling leaks near your chimney, and of course, any smoking indications. Before lighting your chimney, in particular, if you have any suspicions that something is wrong, stay careful and call a team of experts to inspect it.
Consider Safety Measures
Verify the functionality and battery life of your carbon monoxide and smoke detectors. In fact, we advise developing a habit of doing this during Daylight Savings Time. Refresh the batteries! To be sure that your chimney is not spewing smoke or carbon monoxide into your home, take a few simple steps.
