We know a lot of people are doubtful that regular chimney cleaning is all that important. How much dirt could be in there? And why should you care? It’s out of your view, after all, and you care much more about the condition of your fireplace. But, of course, chimney cleaning has nothing to do with the way the chimney looks.
For the most part, it’s about your safety. It’s also about your comfort. To understand why we’re so adamant about annual chimney cleanings, we think it’s important to understand, first and foremost, what substances are lurking within, threatening your health and comfort. Here they are:
All heating systems that use oil, solid fuel, or natural gas to run need some sort of ventilation. Your gas furnace uses combustion to produce heat, but the process also leads to the development of some pretty unpleasant byproducts, including carbon monoxide—a dangerous, toxic gas.
There are many maintenance tasks around the home that are easy to let slide. For example, you may not be in any rush to clean underneath the refrigerator or the washing machine, or on top of a high bookshelf, when these are not places that your guests are likely to see. Out of sight, out of mind! Unfortunately, too many people have the same mentality when it comes to another hidden area of the home, the inside of the chimney.
