Experts Advise Homeowners Safe Chimney Maintenance

28 March 2012 – Long periods of unused and disrepair – or at least neglected maintenance – would make the chimney potentially dangerous when you start using it actively again. Officials and experts advise homeowners to be prudent and have their chimneys checked at least once a year, twice if they use it more often.

Heating systems and fireplaces are being used during seasons when they weren’t typically used. When the winter season approaches (and indeed, during the season and after the last snowflake falls) most homeowners would be calling in electricians and chimney sweeps to inspect, maintain, and repair the heating systems and the chimney. But in seasons when use of it is less expected, these heating sources may be left ill-maintained, or worse, in disrepair.

Improperly maintained chimneys and heating systems can cause chimney fires and other accidental hazards that can damage property and endanger lives. It is always best to check if the systems would work smoothly before actually putting them to use. DIY inspections, maintenance, and repairs in light if saving as much money as possible on expenses are allowed, but major repairs and work need to be left to professionals.

Safety officials advise checking the chimney pipes that typically run through the attic, and seeing that they are suitably away from the insulation and woodwork as recommended by safety organizations and contractors. If DIY inspection can’t be performed and the safety of lives and property may be put at risk, calling in professional chimney sweeps to do a quick inspection is always prudent.

Chimneys and fireplaces can be kept safely functional by a routine thorough clean up and sweep at least once a year, twice for some cases.

Always contract only a professional chimney sweep Denver with paperwork and experience. Any maintenance that goes beyond DIY should also be best left to them.