With temperatures outside lingering in the 70s and 80s, you’re probably not thinking much about your chimney right now. We don’t blame you; we want to soak up the sunshine as much as you do. However, as chimney professionals, we feel it is our duty to let you know that putting a little time into your chimney today can save you a lot of hassle and worry later on. Here are 3 things you can do today to ensure safety, efficiency, and the proper operation of your chimney and fireplace in the wintertime.
Install a Damper
This is a useful fixture for both the summer and the winter. A chimney damper serves many valuable purposes for your home by closing off the chimney when it’s not in use. If you have a top-sealing damper, it can keep wild animals out of the chimney. It also keeps air from your air conditioner inside of the home, so that you don’t waste energy, and it helps to prevent water damage.
Buy Seasoned Wood
Prepare for the heating season now by purchasing seasoned wood and giving it a little extra time to dry out. Wood should be dried for at least 6 months so that it burns properly in your fireplace or wood stove. Unseasoned wood contributes to excessive creosote formation, which puts you at risk for a chimney fire.
Schedule a Chimney Cleaning and Inspection
One of the most important thing you can do for your chimney is to schedule an inspection and cleaning well before you plan to use your chimney. This way, a technician can let you know whether your chimney’s integrity is compromised so that you can schedule repairs. Additionally, any creosote built up from the last heating season can be eliminated.
Allow our seasoned professionals to perform your chimney cleaning, chimney inspection, or damper installation in the Minneapolis-St. Paul, MN area. Call 2nd Generation Chimneys, Inc. today! 612.922.9600 or 1-888-PIXLEYS
