In warmer months, lawn and pool care naturally become priorities for homeowners – but did you know chimney cleaning is also best completed in summer? Scheduling an annual inspection of your chimney during the summer months can save you frustration in the autumn, says the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA). Traditionally, Labor Day is the start of the busiest time of year for chimney sweeps.
“Chimney sweeps get extremely busy in the fall; if you wait to schedule, you are not likely to get an appointment as soon as you might like,” says CSIA Director of Education Ashley Eldridge. “By scheduling now, you will have time to complete any necessary repairs before the start of the heating season. Not to mention the peace of mind you will get knowing that your fireplace or wood stove is ready to go for those dark days of winter.”
When you have your chimney and heating system inspected, be sure the technician inspects furnaces for missing panels and ductwork or open cold air returns. If these situations exist in your home, they should be repaired.
When hiring a chimney sweep, look for the CSIA certification. This demonstrates the professional has passed an extensive examination of fire codes, clearances and standards for the construction and maintenance of chimney and venting systems. They are also well-versed in the characteristics of fuels available for home heating, such as wood, gas and oil.
Source: CSIA
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