Chimney fires are one of the leading causes of home fires every year. The Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) states that more than 20,000 residential house fires are results of chimney fires yearly. However, most of these house fires are preventable with an annual chimney inspection and sweeping. The National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA) also stated that the main cause leading to home fires is having a chimney or flue that is dirty. At TN Fireplace and Chimney, we can’t stress enough the importance of scheduling an annual chimney cleaning. Put your worries to rest and give our team a call now to schedule an annual chimney cleaning!
Why Chimney Cleaning is Important
When you use your fireplace, the fuel that you burn releases smoke, soot and gas byproducts. As these byproducts move up your chimney, they begin to cool down and condense on the inside of your chimney. This condensation is a mixture of chemicals that didn’t get hot enough to combust in your fireplace. Eventually, this condensation begins to accumulate to form a thick tar-like substance called creosote. Creosote is combustible at very high temperatures, and if it does catch fire, it is incredibly difficult to extinguish.
Although there is no way to stop creosote from building up on the inside your chimney. The process of accumulation can be slowed down by burning hotter fires. Hotter fires mean that more chemicals in your fuel are being burned and not accumulating on your chimney. However, if you are using your chimney regularly, you will still accumulate creosote. This is why it is very important to schedule an annual chimney cleaning!
It is also vitally important to have your chimney inspection and cleaning performed by a Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) certified chimney technician. Only a CSIA certified chimney technician has the safety training and chimney maintenance experience to properly clean and inspect your chimney. If you live in the Knoxville area, TN Fireplace and Chimney is the only CSIA certified chimney technician available.
Every fuel type creates creosote. No matter what type of heating appliance you own, it’s important to get your chimney inspected and swept annually. Spring is a great time to get a chimney inspection and cleaning. That way your chimney will be ready to operate safely in the fall when it gets cold again. Don’t put off your chimney inspection and cleaning any longer, call TN Fireplace and Chimney today at (865) 922 2262 or schedule an appointment online today! We look forward to serving you.
