Regular maintenance is crucial to your chimney’s performance and safety. In addition to annual chimney inspections, routine chimney cleaning is needed to ensure your home is safe. Dirty chimneys can cause various problems and hazards, including fires.
Continue reading as Batts’ Chimney Services shares four tips on how to prepare for your appointment with a chimney sweep.
1. Remove Decorative Elements
When the fireplace is not being used, it’s common for homeowners to decorate it with pictures and other knick-knacks. However, any decor should be stored in a safe place before your chimney cleaning appointment to make the process more efficient. This will also protect your belongings from accidental damage.
2. Make Sure the Firebox is Empty
Clear your firebox before the chimney sweep arrives. Put away logs as well as the grate, fireplace tools and any other decorative elements that are on your fireplace.
3. Keep Your Fireplace Cool
Your fireplace needs to be cool to the touch for the chimney professional to perform his work safely. That said, avoid lighting the fireplace or stove 24 to 48 hours before your appointment. It would also help to remove any leftover ashes from the fireplace.
4. Unblock Access to Your Fireplace
Your chimney technician will require access to the fireplace as he needs to bring in cleaning tools. Before the technician arrives, ensure there are no objects blocking the fireplace. The technician will also cover the firebox during the cleaning process. You may also want to cover any nearby furnishings to protect them from dust or soot particles that might be floating in the air.
Whether you need a chimney repair or maintenance service, look no further than Batts’ Chimney Services. We have the skills and equipment needed to help keep your fireplace in good working condition. To schedule a consultation, call us at (205) 956-8207 (Greater Birmingham Area) or (256) 660-1338 (Northern Alabama). You can also fill out our contact form to get an estimate.
