Consequences Of Failing To Clean Your Chimney
Posted on: 9 January 2023
Many homeowners neglect chimney cleaning only to deal with expensive repairs and other costs later. If you frequently use your fireplace, ensure you hire a chimney sweep to inspect and clean your chimney every few months. Here are some consequences of failing to clean your chimney.
Chimney Fires
When you skip chimney cleaning, there is a high risk of a chimney fire. This results from an accumulation of debris and soot in your chimney. If you live in an area with a lot of pollution, like near chemical industries, you should hire a chimney sweep frequently. This helps to keep your chimney free of debris and creosote that can easily spark a fire. Additionally, your chimney should be inspected regularly to check for blockages or problems that can lead to a fire.
Debris and Unwanted Pests
Another reason you shouldn't fail to clean your chimney is if it doesn't have a chimney cap. A cap prevents dirt, critters, and water. This protects you against fires and blockages. Without a chimney cap, animals like birds and squirrels will nest in your chimney. Furthermore, large trees above your chimney will drop branches, leaves, and debris throughout the year.
This debris interferes with your chimney's functionality. Water entry is another common concern for chimneys without caps. Apart from hiring a chimney sweep, ensure you buy a chimney cap.
Health Problems
Failing to clean your chimney can have adverse effects on your health. First, inhaling creosote can lead to breathing problems. Although anyone in your household can develop respiratory problems, there is a high risk for people with asthma and other lung issues. Carbon monoxide poisoning is one of the main causes of respiratory issues resulting from a dirty and clogged chimney.
Creosote also causes eye irritation. The smoke coming down a dirty chimney can have adverse effects on your eyes. When creosote debris touches your eyes, you experience a burning sensation. Some people also complain of skin irritation. However, for your skin to be irritated, you would have to be in direct contact with creosote.
In Closing
Chimney cleaning is one of the routine practices that every homeowner should adapt to. Many people try to save on chimney cleaning through DIY methods. However, DIY cleaning with standard equipment isn't enough to ensure your chimney is clean. A chimney sweep uses advanced equipment and techniques to clean every nook and cranny of your chimney. Compare the quality of service and costs of different chimney cleaning companies to find the one that suits you.
For more information on chimney cleaning services, contact a professional near you.
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