What To Do When You Uncover Creosote Buildup

Creosote buildup is the main reason why you should have your chimney cleaned and inspected annually. Tar, soot, and creosote are all byproducts of wood burning and “creosote” is what the mix of the three components is usually called.  What’s needed to properly clean your chimney depends upon what level of creosote there is on the flue lining. Creosote in all of its forms is dangerous because it can cause chimney fires.

Therefore, you should call in the Chimney Sweeps experts in Los Angeles CA. Although you could try to do it yourself, consider that the process is messy and requires a specialist's expertise. A chimney sweep comes equipped with a variety of brushes that get rid of any type of creosote that might be sticking to the interior walls. In fact, contact us today to schedule your appointment.

Prevent Chimney Fires with an Inspection

As the temperatures drop, the use of chimneys increases. Most people do not give using the fireplace a second thought. They build a fire, ignite it, and prepare to enjoy the cozy warmth of the flames. However, some people then experience chimney fires. Here is why.

Your chimney is designed to remove smoke and gases from your home as you burn wood. As these elements associated with the burn travel up the long chimney walls, the air cools quickly. This results in the possibility of condensation, which leads to residue deposits. Chimney sweeps refer to these deposits as creosote.

An inspection reveals if there is too much creosote buildup for standard use. Your Chimney Sweep specialist in York PA might discuss the importance of using dry or seasoned wood with you. If you have been burning cardboard, paper, or other materials, it might be best to stop this habit. Next, the expert will clean the residue buildup to prevent a chimney fire from happening.

Rules of Thumb for Gas Stoves

Many gas stoves in Hawaii were originally developed for camping and fishing cabins, boats, yurts and tents, and other recreational uses. The key is that the materials used, the thickness of the steel or cast iron, are designed for intermittent recreational use, rather than everyday use. The recreation gas stoves are good products when used for their intended purpose, but may become unsafe when used daily to heat a home.

Rule of thumb: Make sure your stove is rated for residential versus recreational use.

Safety means that the area surrounding the gas stove is heat resistant, with tile, metal, or stone barriers; it has the proper amount of room from the stove to any surrounding wood or flammable material; and that the stovepipe is insulated. The stove needs to be on a level surface to work properly (air flow) and the connections and fittings need to be properly installed, including the fittings on top of the stove pipe outside to prevent accidents with sparks and birds.

Rule of thumb: Installation may be a job for a certified specialist, rather than a DIY. Stove manufacturers usually will also sell stove pipe and fittings that go with their stove, and will provide instructions for installation. This is not the place to save money by buying used.