Having your chimney professionally cleaned regularly is extremely important for maintaining safety and efficiency. According to Bob Vila, there are more than 25,000 chimney fires per year in the U.S. alone. However, if you've never used a chimney cleaning service before, you may be wondering what exactly the appointment entails. Knowing what to expect ahead of time will help you feel fully prepared, so let's review a few considerations below.

The Technician Arrives

You can expect the chimney technician to arrive on time in a marked company vehicle equipped with all the tools needed for chimney cleaning. They'll first ask to see your fireplace or wood stove to gain access for inspection. The technician will also need access to where your heating system is to inspect that flue as well. They'll be conscious of your home's furnishings and floors and be careful while walking through your home. A thorough technician will begin with an inspection using a high-powered flashlight to look for any signs of damage, leaks, nests, or other blockages before beginning the cleaning process.

The Cleaning Process

The actual chimney cleaning process starts with a specialized brush on the end of sturdy poles to loosen debris on the inner walls of your chimney. Next comes the vacuum system, which is powerful enough to contain the dust within the chimney and remove all of the residual soot, creosote, and nesting material that may fall during the cleaning process. For severely blocked chimneys, rotating chimney whips may be utilized as needed to dislodge years of hardened buildup. This can be a messy and loud process, which is why drop cloths are used. The technician cleans as they descend, ending at your fireplace opening.

The Finishing Touches

Once they're done cleaning inside, the technician will clean up the fireplace opening and surrounding area, dispose of all debris collected in your chimney, and remove their drop cloths before giving the whole system a final inspection. Now is the time when any recommended repairs, replacements, or maintenance will be discussed. With your approval, simple repairs like chimney crown work or spark arrestor installation can sometimes be completed on the same day.

You now know what to expect when hiring a professional chimney cleaning service. Maintaining your chimney's health is important for safety and efficiency, so don't put off calling our friendly team at Horizon Chimney Services to schedule an appointment if your chimney is due for a cleaning. We look forward to hearing from you soon!