As winter bids farewell here in the Pittsburgh area and nature awakens with the warmth of spring, it’s time to shift our focus from cozy firesides to essential home maintenance. If the spring cleaning bug has started to rear its head at your home, you know what we’re talking about!
Among the tasks topping the list, you probably have cleaning out your closets, organizing the dreaded junk drawer, and washing windows. Well, we’re here to add one more – scheduling a chimney inspection.
It may seem odd to be thinking about chimney maintenance now, right when your burn season is ending and your system will be out of use, but now is actually the ideal time to get it done! Learn why by reading below, then get in touch with our team to set up your appointment. We’ve got your back.
When Is the Best Time To Schedule My Chimney Inspection?
As you may have guessed already, booking a chimney inspection in the spring offers several advantages. Some include:
- Assessment of Winter Damage: Spring inspections allow professionals to identify and address any damage or wear and tear caused by the harsh winter weather. This proactive approach prevents small issues from escalating into larger, more costly problems over time.
- Ample Time for Repairs: By scheduling your inspection in the spring, you have ample time to address any necessary repairs or maintenance before the next burning season. This ensures that your chimney is safer and ready for use when colder weather returns.
- More Scheduling Availability & Flexibility: Chimney professionals tend to be less busy in the spring compared to the fall and winter months when demand is higher. Booking your inspection in the spring provides greater availability and flexibility in scheduling appointments.
- Heightened Peace of Mind: Knowing that your chimney has been inspected and serviced in the spring provides peace of mind throughout the year. You can rest assured that your chimney is in optimal condition, reducing the risk of chimney fires, carbon monoxide leaks, and other safety hazards.
- Fall Preparedness: While your neighbors are scrambling on those first chilly fall evenings, trying to set up a sweep and inspection when chimney companies are already all booked, you’ll be enjoying a cozy fire with your feet up…happy you took care of all of it months prior.
How Many Chimney Inspections Should I Schedule Per Year?
Determining how many chimney inspections to schedule per year depends on various factors, including usage frequency, chimney age, recent weather events, and any structural changes or renovations.
While an annual inspection is always recommended for homeowners, certain circumstances may necessitate more frequent inspections to ensure the safety and efficiency of your chimney system. You may need two or three inspection per year if:
- You use your fireplace frequently or year-round. For homeowners who use their fireplace or heating appliance frequently, scheduling more than one chimney inspection is typically advisable. Frequent usage can lead to the faster buildup of creosote, as well as put more wear and tear on the system.
- Your fireplace and chimney are older. Older chimneys, particularly those constructed with traditional materials like brick or stone, may require more frequent inspections due to potential deterioration or structural issues.
- You burn wood in your fireplace. Wood will produce more buildup than its cleaner gas counterpart. If you burn wood in your fireplace, investing in more frequent sweeps and inspections will ensure you don’t risk fires or clogs due to creosote accumulation.
- You’ve recently experienced a bad weather event. Harsh weather events, such as severe storms, tornadoes, floods, earthquakes, etc., can cause damage to chimneys and chimney components. If your area experiences such an event, it’s crucial to schedule an inspection promptly – and definitely before putting your system to use again.
- You’ve made recent changes to your fireplace. If you’ve made any structural changes or renovations to your fireplace, such as installing a new appliance (like an insert) or switching to a different type of fuel, it’s essential to have your chimney inspected to ensure proper installation and compatibility.
DIY End-of-Season Chimney Maintenance
While chimney technicians play a crucial role in keeping your fireplace in tip-top shape, there are steps you can take post-winter once you’re done using your system for the season.
- Clear out any remaining ashes and debris from the fireplace, as ash can draw in moisture and cause rust in your firebox.
- Ensure the damper is tightly closed to prevent downdrafts and keep conditioned air inside (and your energy bills in check).
- Consider using a fireplace cover or screen to block the opening to keep out drafts and any other debris.
- Clean and inspect fireplace tools (think pokers, brushes, shovels, etc.), then store them in a dry place for future use.
- Verify that all smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors near the fireplace are functioning properly, and replace batteries as needed.
Give The Chimney Guys a Call Now
As the days grow warmer and the scent of blossoms fills the air, it’s easy to forget about winter’s chill – and the fireplace that kept us warm throughout it. Yet, a springtime chimney inspection not only ensures that your fireplace is ready for the next cozy season, but also detects any issues that may have arisen during winter use.
From clearing debris to identifying potential fire hazards, our inspection services ensure your home remains a safer and more comforting haven all year long. Let’s get started – call or book online now.
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