Do you need to clean an unused fireplace?
Even if you no longer fire-up your fireplace, you still need to have your chimney cleaned and inspected annually. Think of it like an annual physical for your house. Since your chimney and flue help your house “breathe,” you’ll want to make sure they’re in peak physical condition.
What happens if you don’t clean chimney?
When your chimney is not cleaned for a long time, a substance called creosote keeps building up in the flue during the use of the fireplace. This creosote is highly flammable and can lead to a dangerous chimney fire (an uncontrolled 2000 degree fire burning inside the chimney).
How do I clean my unused fireplace?
How To Clean Your Fireplace
- Step 1: Prepare Your Space. Thanks to the nature of fireplaces, cleaning them can get messy, fast. …
- Step 2: Remove and Clean Grates. …
- Step 3: Sweep Away Ashes. …
- Step 4: Get Scrubbing. …
- Step 5: Create Your Cleaning Solution. …
- Step 6: Spray and Scour. …
- Step 7: Clean Doors and Facing.
How do I know if my fireplace is OK to use?
5 Easy Steps to Make Sure Your Fireplace Is Safe
- #1 Examine the Firebox. Look for any cracks, gaps, or signs of wear in the lining of the firebox (the interior of the fireplace). …
- #2 Look for Telltale Smoke Stains. …
- #3 Make Sure Your Grate Is the Right Size. …
- #4 Check the Chimney. …
- #5 Double-Check Your Fire Extinguisher.
How often should you clean ashes out of fireplace?
However, the general rule is to clean the ash out of your fireplace every week or so. When you do, make sure to leave a one- to two-inch layer behind for future fires.
How often should a wood burning fireplace be cleaned?
If you have oil or wood burning fireplaces, Spisto says that you should clean those twice a year, depending on usage. While you should hire a professional to get your chimney cleaned and inspected annually, you can also follow best practices to help maintain your chimney year-round.
How often should fireplaces be inspected?
once per year
The National Fire Protection Association recommends that chimneys, fireplaces and vents be inspected at least once per year. Another, idea to try out when it’s time to clean your chimney is a chimney sweep log.
Can a fireplace fire cause carbon monoxide poisoning?
Yes, gas fireplaces are one potential cause of carbon monoxide poisoning. While there are many potential sources of such exposure, including certain appliances and devices, motor vehicles and wood stoves, gas fireplaces are a common culprit.
Is my wood burning fireplace safe to use?
The best way to ensure your fireplace is safe to use, whether it be wood burning or gas fired, is to have a professional inspection annually. The lack of proper maintenance of your fireplace can cause many hazardous conditions including fire, carbon monoxide poisoning and toxic fumes.
How do you know if your chimney is clear?
Quote from the video:
Quote from Youtube video: If I shine the light right in a good spot. What you're looking at there as you go up the chimney. And what you want to see is you don't want to see any kind of white streaks. And you build up any
How much does a chimney sweep cost?
Chimney sweep costs can range from $129 to $378, with a national average of $252. Prices vary regionally and according to the level of cleaning required as well as other factors.
How do you test a chimney for creosote?
Use your fireplace poker.
Scratch the smoke chamber above your damper to see if there is any creosote. Even if the layer of tar seems very thin, it’s time to call a chimney sweep ASAP. If you have more than 1/8 of an inch of buildup, do not use the chimney until it is clean.
