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A clean chimney produces an attractive, well-burning fire.
It also keeps your house safer and cleaner by reducing smoke and creosote debris.
You should clean your chimney once a year or as frequently as twice a year in special cases.
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Learn details about how often you should have your chimney cleaned and when to do so.
Annual chimney cleaning removes creosote from the inside of the chimney flue.
Lanphier also suggests cleaning your chimney twice a year if you:
What Is Creosote?
Creosote is flammable and can cause chimney fires.
Creosote over 1/8-inch thick should be removed.
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If you better clean your chimney twice a year, clean it in spring and fall.
For fall cleaning, clean the chimney before starting fires for the year.
As for the spring chimney cleaning, do it after the fireplace season is complete.
“Plus, chimney sweeps are more relaxed when not dealing with a hundred last-minute holiday emergencies.”
Or you’re free to hire a professional to clean it.
Clean It Yourself
You may want to clean your own chimney as a supplement to professional cleaning.
A basic chimney sweep kit costs $50 to $75.
You’ll also need sheet plastic, tape, and an extension ladder.
“Leave it to the professionals for a proper clean,” he says.
On average,chimney cleaning costs$220 per chimney.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
United States Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).
The Importance of Regular Chimney Cleaning: Protecting Your Home and Health.
Hearth, Patio, and Barbecue Association of Canada (HPBAC).
Chapter 10 Chimneys and Fireplaces.
2015 International Residential Code (IRC).
Most Home Fires Result from 5 General Causes.National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).
Fire Department Response to Chimney Fires.
International Society of Fire Service Instructors.
