When Your Air Conditioner Won't Work

Have A Fireplace? Key Signs You Need A Thorough Chimney Sweeping

28 May 2020 by Clara Fernandez

The number of perks that come along with having a fireplace is almost too long to list. Not only does a fireplace provide you with the perfect place to snuggle up with a special someone, but it can also pump out much-needed warmth if your central heating system happens to malfunction. If you are the kind of person who uses your fireplace often, you are probably well aware of the benefits. However, do you know that your fireplace also requires a certain amount of maintenance if it's going to keep working correctly? Here are just a few signs to look for so you'll know when it is time for a good chimney sweep.

Smoke Builds Up Quickly When You Light A Fire

When your chimney is nice and clean, you shouldn't notice any smoke inside your house when you light up the fireplace. The natural order of things is for the smoke from the flames to climb up through the flue and escape outside, while outside air is pushed down through the flue to create a draft that keeps the fire burning. 

However, when there is something blocking up the flow you might notice that smoke quickly pours into your living quarters, often making it difficult for you to see or breathe. This is a major problem that you don't want to overlook. Call up a chimney sweeping professional to come out and clean your fireplace so that you won't have to deal with a burning sensation in your eyes or throat every time you want to enjoy a cozy fire!

Your Fireplace Is Starting To Smell

Pay close attention to any random scents that you begin to pick up when you crank up the fireplace. Creosote, also known as soot, can build up along the walls of your fireplace. If the substance isn't promptly cleared away, you might notice a strong, smoky smell that is similar to tar. Think of the scent you get from a freshly paved outside surface. The smell can be quite disturbing and make you think that perhaps the fire isn't being contained in the chimney. In order to avoid the unpleasant nature of soot, it's best to have your chimney swept on a regular basis.

If you want to keep your fireplace burning, it's important to care for your chimney's condition. Ask a chimney sweep to clear away the debris from your fireplace so you can keep your home toasty all winter long.

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