A fully functioning fireplace is important in many homes in the US, not just to provide warmth but to generate a welcoming ambiance even in a property that might be heated, in the mean, by a central heating system. To this end, chimneys require regular maintenance. If not, then they can offer a sub-standard operation with several negative connotations. Perhaps the most crucial aspect of this maintenance requirement is chimney sweeping, a task that should not be put off since chimneys tend to become progressively more blocked the more they are used. Read on to find out why booking a chimney sweeping service is a good idea.

Health Protection

To begin with, an obstructed chimney can lead to an unwanted build-up of carbon monoxide. This is a potentially deadly gas that is invisible and odorless, making it very hard to detect. A clean, well-functioning chimney ensures that this harmful substance will be safely vented. As such, frequent chimney sweeping should be carried out to protect the health of your household and visitors. Simply put, it can safeguard against carbon monoxide poisoning, which can kill.

Fire Safety

Another key reason to have your chimney swept is fire safety. Over time, chimneys tend to accumulate creosote, a highly flammable by-product that comes from burning wood in your grate. If it is not professionally removed, then a spark from an ember could ignite it. As a result, you might experience a dangerous chimney fire that places the entire property at risk. Regular sweeping reduces the risk of such fires, especially when they're conducted by professionals.

Airflow Efficiency

In addition to safety and health concerns, a clean chimney makes for better airflow, which results in more efficient heating. As various types of debris build up in a chimney, the flow of air becomes more and more restricted making your fire burn less productively, a big problem if you warm your house with an open fire, of course. By delaying chimney sweeping, you are, in effect, maintaining fireplace inefficiencies and augmenting your fuel costs.

Damage Prevention

Sweeping a chimney removes material that might otherwise damage it. For example, creosote is acidic and can corrode the inner lining of chimneys. In turn, this can lead to costly and avoidable repair bills. Chimneys can be attractive nesting sites for birds, as well as certain other types of animals, which may cause untold damage if they are not dealt with promptly.

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