While many homeowners have a good amount of chimney knowledge, it still remains a source of a few myths. It is good to learn as much as you can about this heating source, but you should be aware that there is still some misinformation out there. Here are a few more chimney myths that you should know about.
- Metal liners don’t need to be inspected. A metal liner is a wise investment as it is durable and can help to extend the life of the chimney. Many homeowners are making the switch, but unfortunately some believe that they can skip regular cleaning., Remember that the liner does not affect the buildup of creosote when you use your fireplace. Poor maintenance can also void your liner warranty, so be sure to protect your investment. Inspections will also alert you to any kind of blockage inside the liner such as debris or nests.
- Softwoods are bad for the liner. It has been suggested for years that pine and other softwoods can damage the chimney liner while burning. Studies and tests have shown that this is not the case. As long as the wood is dried properly, it will not lead to more creosote than any other type of wood. You should also learn how to create efficient fires that give off the right amount of heat.
- Professional cleaning is not necessary. No chimney professional would discourage you from taking an active role in caring for your chimney. However, you should understand the limitations of the tools you have for this process. While some online tips make DIY chimney cleaning seem easy, it does require special equipment to get rid of creosote. Professional sweeps are also able to get deeper inside the structure, and they can find even the minor signs of damage that can affect efficiency and safety.
- Inspection is not necessary with infrequent use. Even if you only use your fireplace occasionally, this does not mean that you should skip annual inspections. There is more to chimney maintenance than dealing with creosote. The chimney sweep will check for leaks, look for signs of damage and make sure that there is nothing blocking the chimney. The sweep can also carry out repairs if necessary.
Knowing chimney facts will help you to use it safely and increase efficiency. This is also a good way to lower your home’s heating bill and to extend the life of the chimney.
Fireplace Safety and Chimney Inspections in Lima
We have two CSIA Certified chimney sweeps standing by to assist you with your chimney needs. Give us a call at 610-626-2439 to schedule an appointment for a chimney inspection or cleaning. We provide chimney services throughout the Main Line region.