Chimney Maintenance Is Essential

General Maintenance Tips

Both metal and masonry chimneys require maintenance to ensure smoke and flue gases are properly ventilated. You should have your chimney inspected annually before each heating season. In addition:

• Have your chimney cleaned on a regular basis to reduce creosote buildup.
• Make sure your masonry chimney has a flue liner in place to reduce the possibility that the masonry could absorb creosote.
• Replace damaged liners, as they will allow creosote to accumulate and heat to escape.
• When hiring someone to reline your chimney, only allow the contractor to use a product that has been tested and listed by a nationally recognized testing laboratory.

Chimney Fires Annually

The U.S. sees roughly 20,000 chimney and fireplace fires each year, depending on reporting and definitions. These incidents cause over $100 million in annual property damage, largely driven by creosote buildup and lack of routine chimney maintenance.

Specific Maintenance Tips

There are two types of chimneys that require specific maintenance to limit the risks in your home.

1. Fireplace inserts: Make sure the vent is connected to the flue of the chimney.
2. Factory-built metal chimneys: Do not use natural gas, fuel oil vents, well casing, stovepipe or other material in the chimney, as they cannot withstand the heat in the wood burner.

Keep These Precautions in Mind

Do not vent more than one heater or appliance into a single flue, as major complications can arise. If one fuel-burning appliance is connected to a flue and you then attach another appliance, such as a water heater, you risk various problems—including heavy creosote accumulation, deterioration of the flue, or CO drifting into your home.

For additional home maintenance guidance and homeowners’ insurance solutions, contact us today.