When it comes to the maintenance of your home, you don't want to forget about your chimney. It's important for you to make sure you have professionals come out to clean your chimney annually. It's best for you to have someone come out to clean the chimney before you start using it for the winter. This way, you know that it is ready to go when you use it for the first time of the year. Here are some of the reasons why having your chimney cleaned on a yearly basis is so important:
It helps prevent carbon monoxide poisoning
Carbon monoxide poisoning should be a real concern for homeowners. Carbon monoxide poisoning is also commonly referred to as "the silent killer" because it can occur with no warning and without any really noticeable signs that it's taking place. The symptoms can mimic other conditions, leaving people not realizing what's happening, so they don't know to leave the home. Some symptoms include dizziness, headaches, fatigue, confusion, nausea, and more. When you have someone come out and clean your chimney, it is going to significantly decrease the risk of carbon dioxide poisoning. Things like twigs, leaves, and even birds' nests in the chimney will be removed to allow for better airflow. Reduced airflow is what increases the risks of carbon monoxide buildup.
It helps to prevent fires in the chimney
When your chimney is cleaned, the buildup of creosote will be removed. Creosote is a sticky substance that is highly flammable. This means that using the fireplace year after year without having it cleaned means there will be more creosote collecting and the more there is, the greater the risk will be of a fire breaking out.
It helps the fireplace to function more efficiently
When you have your chimney cleaned, it removes the buildup of any debris that would cause the chimney to become clogged. When it is clogged, it affects the amount of oxygen that is able to reach down into the fireplace. Since oxygen is necessary for a good fire, cleaning the chimney allows the fireplace to get enough oxygen to allow a good fire to grow in the fireplace. Not only can this give you a great-looking fire, but it can also really help to heat up your home better. Now that you have more knowledge of the importance of having your chimney cleaned, you want to be sure you remember to schedule your annual cleanings.
Contact a chimney cleaning service for more information.
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