As a responsible homeowner in Los Angeles, CA, you know that routine chimney cleanings can keep your home safer when you’re using your fireplace. However, like many home repair and maintenance tasks, there are always going to be a few misconceptions that stump or confuse homeowners. At Fiddler on the Roof Chimney Service, our team wants to help. We’ve debunked a few of the most common chimney sweeping myths so you’ll know what to expect and how to properly care for your chimney.
I Can Handle the Job Myself (DIY Chimney Cleaning)
Wondering if you can clean a chimney on your own? Cleaning a chimney properly takes training, time, and lots of precautions. Homeowners who attempt to clean their chimney (DIY approach) risk injuring themselves as well as doing damage to the structure of their home. Rather than trying to handle the job on your own, opt for professional chimney cleaning so you can be sure the job is handled safely and properly.
Creosote Only Comes from Burning Softwood
Creosote buildup is the most common cause of chimney fires, but it’s not caused by burning only softwood like pine or cedar. Instead, creosote is linked to the overall heat of the fire. The hotter the fire burns, the cleaner the smoke is. Avoiding the use of pine or other softwood in your fireplace will not reduce creosote buildup.
Chimneys can Only be Cleaned During the Off-Season
Luckily, a chimney sweep can be scheduled whenever is most convenient for you and your family, even if you’re using the fireplace daily. While cleaning a chimney in snowy or icy conditions is less ideal, there’s no reason to wait until spring or summer to schedule a cleaning. In fact, the more you use your fireplace, the more often you’ll want to schedule a cleaning to prevent chimney fires. If it’s been a while, don’t hesitate—schedule an appointment today.
Chimney Liners Eliminate the Need for Regular Cleanings
Chimney liners help improve the structure of your chimney and may reduce the likelihood of a chimney fire, but they don’t prevent them entirely. Creosote can still attach to the walls of the liner, regardless of the material used. If you have a chimney liner, you’ll still want to schedule a cleaning at least once a year to keep your fireplace functioning at its best.
If it’s been a while since your last chimney sweeping appointment, don’t put off that cleaning. Contact us today and schedule an appointment. Our dedicated staff will make sure your chimney is clean and in perfect working order no matter the season.
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