If you're uncertain when your chimney was last cleaned, then now is the time to schedule your chimney cleaning. Contact Total Screen today; we'll connect you with a "Screened Pro" chimney sweep in your neighborhood!
Failure to clean creosote from chimneys can be contributing factor to home heating fires, due to the flammability of the creosote build-up.
How Often to Schedule Chimney Cleaning
"It's best to have your chimney cleaned & inspected once per year, usually before the burning season begins in late-Fall" said a chimney sweep who has worked in San Diego since 2002.
"During Winter in Southern California, there can sometimes be a 3 to 6 week wait for chimney service. I always recommend getting a chimney cleaning in early Spring or Fall, to beat the rush."
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Regular Chimney Cleaning is Essential
The simple reason to get annual chimney service is:
chimney cleaning prevents build-up of a flammable substance called "Creosote"
Creosote inside a chimney can ignite itself, causing a dangerous chimney fire.
A "Chimney Fire" is an unintentional fire which ignites near the top of poorly-maintained chimneys; flames from a chimney fire can ignite nearby foliage on the roof, leading to a house fire.
Contact a chimney cleaner from our "Screened Pro" neighborhood network of professionals.
Things That Affect Your Chimney
For those who are uncertain how often they should get a chimney cleaning, consider the following factors for your fireplace:
Frequency of Use
The more often you use your fireplace, the more quickly creosote will accumulate.
If you burn fires daily in winter, you may need a cleaning every few months.
Type of Wood
Burning green, unseasoned wood produces more smoke and creosote than dry, seasoned wood.
Pine also tends to cause more creosote buildup.
Local Humidity
Leaks or moisture entering the chimney can accelerate creosote accumulation.
An annual chimney inspection will identify any water intrusion issues before they worsen.
Nearby Plants
Over the course of a year, trees & plants near your home can grow so much that they block the chimney.
Removing this overgrowth is important for ensuring a danger-free chimney.
Best Time to Schedule Chimney Cleaning
As a general rule of thumb, schedule your chimney cleaning and inspection once a year, in advance of when you expect to light your first fire of the season.
If you want to save money, consider scheduling your chimney service in the Spring or Fall.
Fewer people are thinking about using their fireplaces during those off-season times, so your chimney sweep will likely be able to accommodate your request same day.
Chimney Cleaners in our "Screened Pro" network are ready to help you this season.
If Chimney's Aren't Regularly Cleaned...
Neglecting annual chimney cleaning puts every resident at risk, which is why chimney maintenance is something a homeowner should take seriously.
By cleaning your chimney once per year, you'll protect yourself and your loved ones from the following :
- Unintentional chimney fires, caused by flammable creosote buildup
- Toxic carbon monoxide in your home, caused by an obstructed chimney
- Deterioration, causing costly damage to your chimney's lining
- Foul odors & dangerous smoke entering your home
If you're ready to save money by scheduling your chimney cleaning today, click here to contact your local "Screened Pro" chimney cleaner.
Schedule your annual cleaning today and enjoy a safer burning season!