Safety Starts With A Clean Chimney

The Ontario Fire Code requires homeowners to maintain the safety of their chimneys and have them inspected at least once a year. Annual cleaning prevents the accumulation of creosote, a leading cause of deadly chimney fires. A professional cleaning will also reveal corrosion and damaged parts that if left unchecked could result in a fire risk.

If your chimney displays any of the following symptoms, consult a professional immediately:

• Excessive heat coming from fireplace and stove walls. If the wall is unusually hot it could be a sign of improper installation of the chimney or stove pipe.
• Smoke coming into the room could indicate a blockage in the chimney or a faulty damper control mechanism.
• Loose bricks, crumbling mortar, broken liners, dark stains or white powder are indicators of potential problems with masonry chimneys.
• Leaching (dark staining or white powder) at joints in stove pipes and connections, which could indicate deterioration.

In between chimney cleanings, keep the chimney and flues clear by burning only seasoned wood, which has been aged for at least six months after cutting.

Courtesy: Homeservice Club