How to identify signs that your chimney needs cleaning?

How To Identify Signs
That Your Chimney Needs

Cleaning?

Your home’s chimney is a crucial element that beautifies your home and keeps it warm during
the cold months. Whether you burn wood to ignite a fire in the fireplace or you are using a gas
fireplace chimney, either way, your fireplace & chimney will need regular inspection and
cleaning to stay pristine. As per the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), an annual
chimney cleaning and inspection must be performed by a certified professional regardless of

how often it is used. Therefore, it is recommended to hire a professional chimney repair,
chimney maintenance and chimney cleaning service in Essex County, NJ, at least once a year.

But, how would you know when it is time for chimney cleaning?

As the chimney is not an easy place to visually inspect from the inside, you might never observe
clues that indicate your chimney is in dire need of cleaning. You wouldn’t want to hire the
expensive chimney maintenance contractors in Essex County, NJ, unless it needs cleaning.
However, neglecting regular inspection and cleaning can put your family’s safety at risk. Thus,
the following are a few signs to know when it is time to get professional chimney cleaning
services:

● As per the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) guidelines, it is suggested that the
fireplace and chimney need to be cleaned if there is 1/8″ of soot or Creosote buildup
inside the chimney’s liner.

● If your chimney smells strongly of burned wood even when it is not being used, then it is
a sign that your chimney needs cleaning.

● Another indicator of when your chimney needs cleaning is if the fire is not burning as
effectively, and it takes more time and effort to start the fire. It could be caused due to an
obstruction in the chimney’s airway or moisture in the chimney. In that case, you need a
professional contractor to inspect the chimney.

● When your chimney is not in use, it becomes a nesting site for birds and other animals. If
the nest is on the inside, it may be difficult to remove. Thus, if you hear any animal noises
from the chimney, make sure to contact a professional for chimney cleaning services.

● If a lot of smoke accumulates in the room when you start a fire, even though the flue is
open, it is a sign that your chimney needs to be inspected and cleaned.

● Also, make sure to check the chimney damper periodically. If it appears black, it is a sign
of creosote build-up.

If you notice any of these signs, it is time to schedule chimney cleaning and maintenance
services in Essex County, NJ. Whether you need chimney repair, installation, or maintenance
services, or roofing repair and maintenance services in Essex County, NJ, contact our team for
expert assistance.