
In the Midwest, we get warm, humid days in summer and bitter, blowing, cold, snowy days in winter. As the snow falls and the temperatures drop below freezing, you will probably be hankering to warm yourself by sitting beside a lit fireplace. But that pleasure includes a catch; fireplaces and wood-burning stoves need maintenance. Fortunately, you have Midtown Chimney Sweeps of Ankeny, ready to provide the quality service you need!
Cleaning the Fireplaces and Chimneys of Ankeny, Iowa
Why is chimney cleaning important?
When you burn wood in your fireplace, creosote (or “soot”) builds up in the chimney. If too much of that flammable substance accumulates, a chimney fire could erupt.What are the regulations for chimney inspections?
Different regulations have been put in place by both the National Fireplace Protection Association (NFPA) and the manufacturers of fireplaces and heating stoves. For the most part, you will be recommended to have you masonry fireplace or factory-built fireplace swept out when the thickness of the soot reaches 1/8”, while bio-fuel pellet stoves and wood stoves should be swept every year. These regulations not being followed is often the reason for why manufacturers won’t honor warranties.How often must a fireplace be cleaned?
No matter how frequently you use your fireplace, the answer is yearly. According to the NFPA’s Code 211,“Chimneys, fireplaces, and vents shall be inspected at least once a year for soundness, freedom from deposits, and correct clearances. Cleaning, maintenance, and repairs shall be done if necessary.”Even if you use your fireplace infrequently, you should be wary of using it in the event that it has fallen into disrepair.