Charlotte, NC Chimney Sweeping Services With Owens Chimney: Vital for Your Health & Safety

How Does Owens Chimney Systems Clean Chimneys in the Charlotte, NC area?

• We sweep the inside of your chimney, from the firebox floor to the chimney top.
• We clean, inspect, and adjust the damper and damper assembly.
• We use brushes attached to rods to sweep the flue, hand brushes for the firebox and smoke chamber, and a vacuum with a triple layer HEPA filter to control dust.
• After doing all of this we do a visual inspection of the outside of the chimney, checking the mortar work, brickwork, and crown. Any damage or needed repairs we find is documented with digital photos that can be sent to you.
• When we are through we will leave a copy of the written evaluation with you.
• We recommend annual chimney inspections, as does the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).

We Also Offer Furnace Flue Sweepings

Your furnace flue or chimney needs sweepings too! Neglecting this maintenance can affect your indoor air quality and the efficiency of your heating appliance – and the dirtier your flue is, the higher your risk of experiencing gas leaks and fire hazards.

Keep your household safer by scheduling your next furnace flue sweeping with our experts today.

Are Chimney Sweepings Messy?

The number one concern most consumers have with chimney sweepers in your home is the mess that is envisioned. If you’ve ever seen Mary Poppins, then you know what we’re talking about. A scene of soot-covered techs tracking dirt, ash, and grime is probably running through your brain, and you’re wondering if it’s worth hiring someone for the job at all.

Well, we’re here to tell you not to worry. When you hire us, there is virtually no mess involved with the chimney sweep process. And just in case you are interested in how we do that, here are the steps we take to make sure that your home is as clean, if not cleaner, after the job is complete.

• We wear shoe covers to ensure no tracking into your home.
• We lay tarps out in front of the fireplace to prevent your carpet and furnishing from getting dirty.
• We set up a hig- speed dust collector with HEPA filters to make sure that no soot gets into your home.

All in all, typically when you hire professional certified chimney sweep technicians, like the team here at Owens Chimney, you’ll note that they take steps to minimize the mess during the chimney cleaning process.

Our techs make it a priority to make sure those in our service area receive the highest level of cleanliness and care possible, and we will take steps to keep the mess under control and clean up thoroughly after the job is complete.

Questions? Call or start booking online with us now.

Why Do Chimneys Need To Be Cleaned?

According to the NFPA, heating equipment is the second leading cause of home fires and home fire deaths. Making sure you have your chimney appliance cleaned each year is an inexpensive and efficient way to protect your family from becoming part of these statistics – and hiring a professional team of chimney experts for the job is a must.

However, for many, even though cleaning your chimney is listed at the top of the CPSC Fire Safety Check List, they have no idea what the chimney technician is really doing – or just why it’s so important. We believe you should be an educated consumer when it comes to the care and maintenance of your fireplace.

So, why are chimney sweeping (cleaning) services such a must?

1. They prevent the buildup of creosote. Creosote is a highly combustible substance that builds up in your flue as fires are lit, and it can ignite and cause a chimney fire if too much of it forms. Creosote develops as your chimney vents the byproducts of combustion – like smoke, gases, and soot – out of your home. As the gases move up, they cool, condense, and adhere to the walls of your flue.
2. They prevent blockages. Animals, like birds and squirrels, often build nests in chimneys, which can then block the flue and prevent proper exhaust and ventilation. In addition, leaves and debris can accumulate in the chimney, reducing airflow and increasing the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning – an odorless, colorless gas that can be deadly in large quantities.
3. They improve the efficiency of your heating system. Regular cleanings prolong the life of your chimney by preventing damage and deterioration caused by excessive buildup. This also helps to reduce your energy bills, saving you money in the long run.

How Often Should I Have My Chimney Swept?

For best practices, it is recommended that you have a professional inspect and sweep your chimney at least once per year – and it’s highly recommended that you use a certified chimney technician for the job.

All that said, if you use your fireplace or stove frequently, especially if you burn wood, you may need more frequent cleanings. Burning large amounts of wood throughout the entire year might bump you up to needing a sweep every 6 months. Consult with one of our professional chimney sweeps for personalized advice based on your specific usage and circumstances.

When Should I Schedule My Chimney Sweep Services (& Inspections)?

Scheduling a yearly check-up in the spring is the best time for a chimney sweeping and inspection, and it will go a long way toward keeping your system functioning efficiently and getting that comfort you deserve. Spring is ideal because our sweeps are less busy, and you’ll have ample time to address any damages before your burning season begins.

In addition, should our overview reveal the need for fireplace repair services or chimney masonry repairs, spring and summer lend an ideal temperature for many of our products to properly cure – ensuring you the best (and longest-lasting) results possible.

How Do I Know if My Chimney or Flue Needs to be Cleaned?

The following signs all are indicators that your flue could be blocked up or clogged. Call us if you notice any of the following:

• If you are burning over a cord of wood in your fireplace or wood stove.
• If you have any visual signs of a chimney problem, such as smoke or soot stains.
• If you notice discoloration on the chimney exterior or venting stack, or puff back from your furnace flue.
• If you notice the presence of soot or creosote inside the chimney – it should be addressed when reaching over 1/8th of an inch.
• If you have any obstructions, such as bird nests or debris, that are blocking the flue.
• If you notice smoke entering your home when you use the fireplace or stove.
• If you smell unpleasant odors coming from your fireplace or stove – this could be musty, campfire-like, smoky, or worse (think critters and their young).
• If you’re having trouble getting a fire started or if the fire doesn’t burn well.
• If it has been more than a year since your last chimney cleaning.

And remember – even if you use gas appliances, it’s important to have the flue inspected regularly to ensure proper ventilation and to check for any issues.

We have the expertise and tools to thoroughly clean and identify any potential problems. Don’t wait to give us a call – or reach out through our website – today.

How Can I Prepare for My Chimney Sweep?

While chimney sweeping typically does not create a significant mess, there are steps you can take to help your sweep minimize the risk of damage or other issues during the process.

Some tips include:

• Clear the area around the fireplace or stove – we advise a 6-foot range – of any furnishings or decor.
• Cover nearby furnishings and floors with drop cloths or tarps.
• Ensure that the chimney technician has clear access to the chimney and fireplace or stove.
• Communicate any concerns or questions you have with the chimney sweep before the job begins.

We’re always happy to answer any questions you have along the way as well, and if you have any further questions or concerns before we head your way, please reach out! We’re happy to assist you in any way we can.

Can I Sweep My Own Chimney?

Between creosote sweeping logs, online tutorials, endless how-to videos, and DIY tool kits filling many sales websites, you might be thinking… Why shell out the dough for a professional chimney sweep service when I could probably tackle the job myself?

So, can you sweep your own chimney? Sure. Or you can try, at least.

But should you sweep your own chimney? As experts on both chimney safety and fire safety, we say no.

First things first, to ensure effectiveness and thoroughness, you will need the following tools: chimney brushes, extension rods, drop cloths, dust masks, safety goggles, flashlights, metal buckets, and wire brushes. You will also need to make sure that you are able to reach into the entire cavity of the chimney, which can be very difficult, unless professionally trained. If spots are missed or overlooked, the risks involved with using a dirty chimney still remain.

Not to mention, having a professional on the job will ensure any other potential issues are spotted – problems that might not be so easily spotted by an untrained eye.

Oh, and remember all of our facts on how mess-free our sweeping services are? Unless you have all the equipment we do (booties, powerful vacuums, big drop cloths, etc.), you can likely expect a big mess to clean up after the fact.

Ensure a safer and more comfortable home by leaving your next chimney sweep to us – call or book online now.

What Is Creosote? Why Is It Dangerous?

Creosote is a black or brown tar-like substance that forms as the warm smoke and fumes from your fireplace fires travel up and cool near the top of your flue. The temperature drop causes condensation to form and sticky residue to attach to your inner flue walls (i.e. creosote).

Creosote is more likely to form during the incomplete combustion of wood or other solid fuels in a fireplace, stove, or chimney. In other words, your fires aren’t burning as efficiently as they should be, causing more residue to adhere to the interior walls of your chimney.

Why is creosote dangerous?

• It’s highly flammable. Creosote is highly combustible, and when it accumulates inside the chimney or flue, it becomes a significant fire hazard. Chimney fires caused by creosote buildup can be extremely destructive and pose a serious risk to the safety of your home.
• It reduces draft and airflow. As creosote accumulates on the walls of the chimney, it can narrow the flue, reducing the draft. A restricted draft can lead to poor combustion, increased smoke production, and potential problems with the efficient venting of gases.
• It obstructs the flue. Thick layers of creosote can obstruct the flue, preventing the smooth passage of smoke and gases out of the chimney. This obstruction can lead to the backup of smoke and carbon monoxide into the living space, posing health risks to occupants.
• It contains corrosive properties. Creosote has corrosive properties that can damage the chimney structure over time. This corrosion may weaken the chimney, leading to structural issues that compromise its integrity.

To mitigate the dangers associated with creosote…you guessed it…invest in regular chimney sweepings. A professional chimney sweep can remove the buildup, reducing the risk of chimney fires and ensuring that the chimney functions properly. 

It’s important for homeowners to be aware of the signs of creosote accumulation, such as visible (honeycomb-looking) deposits in the chimney, a strong burning odor, or difficulty in starting a fire – and take prompt action to address these issues.

Make Chimney Cleaning a Regular Part of Your Maintenance Routine – Count On Us

Servicing your chimney is a crucial part of maintaining the safety and functionality of your home’s heating system, and it should be done regularly by a professional chimney sweep. A swept chimney will allow for better airflow and reduce the risk of fire or carbon monoxide poisoning, and it can improve your home’s air quality significantly.

Contact us and allow us to provide a free quote on the cost of a chimney sweep so you can get this chore off of your to-do list. Owens Chimney Systems conducts all chimney work according to guidelines set forth by the NFPA, and our evaluations consist of any 1 of 3 levels of detailed chimney inspection.

Working with a professional chimney sweep can help ensure that your chimney is cleaner, safer, and running as efficiently as possible. Call Owens Chimney Service to schedule an appointment or book online with us today.

 

Booking your annual chimney inspection with our chimney services experts is the best way to stay up to date with chimney safety requirements.