How Often Should You Clean Your Fireplace?

Even though you may not think about it much, the reality is that many house fires start due to the buildup of creosote in the interior of the chimney. Homeowners neglect cleaning their chimneys despite this risk. In the 19^th century, when homes were heated via fireplaces, chimney sweeps were in demand because homeowners knew about the importance of keeping the chimney clean to prevent fires. Today, however, this is something of a forgotten art.

You may be wondering when to clean your fireplace in Wausau, WI. This is a job best left to the professionals who know how to keep the chimney clean and operational. Let’s take a closer look at how often to clean your fireplace.

Wood-burning fireplaces

Every year, owners of wood-burning fireplaces should have a chimney inspection performed by a reputable chimney sweep company. If you use the fireplace very frequently, you might need service more often than that.

There are a number of factors that determine how much creosote sticks to the chimney walls, including the airflow into the chimney and the kind of wood you’re burning. The rule of thumb is that you should have the chimney cleaned once there’s 1/8” of sooty buildup.

Gas-burning fireplaces

In general, gas-burning fireplaces are more convenient and easier to use than their wood-burning counterparts. But many people incorrectly assume that because you have a gas fireplace, you don’t need to have the chimney inspected and cleaned.

Gas is a mostly clean-burning fuel, but it’s possible for other problems to develop. For example, ceramic logs can deteriorate over time and clog vents, which then malfunction. Valves and connections may develop leaks. Here again, an annual inspection by a certified technician is a smart idea to keep things safe and clean.

Rarely used fireplaces

You might assume that if you don’t use your fireplace very often, then you don’t need to have it cleaned and inspected. But the reality is that it’s still important to get it cleaned. The chimney can attract birds, squirrels and other wildlife that leave behind nests and debris. This may lead to improper chimney ventilation and a dangerous buildup of carbon monoxide.

If you want to know more about how to clean your chimney in Wausau, WI, you’ve come to the right place. Marcell’s Specialties Inc. is proud to be the state’s leading expert on fireplaces and stoves, backed by decades of hands-on expertise and extensive sales experience.

Our team is ready to answer the call whether you’re looking for a brand-new stone fireplace to liven up your home or you need repairs and cleaning for an existing chimney and fireplace in Wausau, WI. We’re available for both indoor and outdoor work, and we serve both residential and commercial customers alike. Our mission is always to leave you with a fireplace that looks beautiful, functions safely and adds value to your space. Contact us today at 715-848-5194 to learn more about our repair capabilities or to have one of our team members inspect your fireplace.

Categorised in: Fireplace Cleaning

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