FAQ
FAQ

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS 

At American Fireplace and Chimney Sweep, we want to make sure our customers are safe. Owning a fireplace is a huge responsibility, and since any number of things can go wrong when they are not maintained properly, it’s important to learn as much about your chimney and fireplace as possible.

Let us answer some of our most popular questions below, and be sure to give us a call if you have any further concerns.

Q: HOW DO I KNOW WHEN I NEED TO HAVE MY CHIMNEY OR FIREPLACE CLEANED? 

A: The National Fire Protection Association Standard 211 says; "Chimneys, fireplaces, and vents shall be inspected at least once a year for soundness, freedom from deposits, and correct clearances.” It is important to have cleaning and maintenance done when necessary, because even if you don't use your chimney often, animals may build nests in the flue or you may have other types of deterioration that could make the chimney unsafe to use.
Q: WHAT ARE THE MOST COMMON CHIMNEY PROBLEMS? 
A: Chimney flues often get blocked by creosote, animals, and other obstructions. Some other common problems include cracking settling in the tiles and moisture buildup. 
Q: WHAT COULD HAPPEN IF PROBLEMS ARE NOT CORRECTED?
A: Many things can happen, including flue fires, poor ventilation, smoke inhalation, build-up of sulfur deposits in the soot residue, animals and parasites nesting in the flue, increased deterioration of flue lining, and sickly odors. 
Q: MY FIREPLACE STINKS, ESPECIALLY IN THE SUMMER. WHAT CAN I DO? 
A: Creosote deposits in the chimney flue are a natural byproduct of wood burning. These deposits may emit a certain smell during the off season. Commercial chimney deodorant can help with cleaning fireplace creosote deposits. If the problem persists, it is most likely caused by the air being drawn down the chimney, a symptom of overall pressure problems in the house. Some make-up air should be introduced somewhere else in the house. Installing a tightly sealed top mounted damper will also reduce this air flow coming down the chimney. 
Q: I HEAT WITH GAS. SHOULD THIS CHIMNEY BE CHECKED, TOO? 
A: Definitely! Gas is generally a clean burning fuel, but your chimney can become non-functional from bird nests or other debris that can block the flue. Even modern furnaces can cause many problems with the average flues that are designed to vent the older generation of furnaces.
Q: ANY MORE QUESTIONS? 
A: Call the professionals at American Fireplace & Chimney Sweep today! We can inspect your chimney and help you sleep soundly knowing you've just helped make your home safer from fires and improved the air quality. Cleaning and sweeping can save you on costly chimney repairs. 
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