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It is also possible for the soot and
creosote in the chimney flue to ignite causing a chimney fire, which could lead
to the destruction of your home. Consequently it is important to regularly clean
your chimney if burning wood.
Do it Yourself
Chimney Sweeping
Chimney sweeping is a dirty job, and
can also be dangerous if you have to climb on high roofs. This said, if you
prefer to clean your own chimney described below are the basics for do it
yourself chimney sweeping.
First, you need to dress for the
occasion. You will need to wear safety glasses, work gloves, a facemask and some
old gloves.
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Next, close the chimney damper if
you are operating a wood stove. If you have a fireplace, seal the front of
the fireplace with cardboard and tape. This will prevent soot and creosote
from blowing into the house. Also have a large metal pail and fireplace
shovel nearby. Finally, keep your vacuum cleaner close at hand.
Next you will need to purchase
rope, a wire chimney sweeping brush and several feet of heavy chain. The
chain should be put into a small burlap bag or pillow case and tied off.
Connect the small bag of chain to the bottom of the sweeping brush.
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Next, tie a long length of rope to
the other end of the chimney brush.
Now go up on the roof and remove the
chimney cap if there is one installed over the chimney flue. With the chimney
cap removed, carefully lower the bag of chain, followed by the steel chimney
brush, into the chimney flue.
Using the rope slowly let the chimney
brush slide down the chimney liner all the way to the bottom. Carefully pull the
chimney brush to the top, and then lower the bag down again. Repeat this process
several times until the chimney flue is free from creosote and soot build up.
After you have completed sweeping the
chimney, give the soot some time to settle before going back into the home and
removing the cardboard from the fireplace entrance.
Use your fireplace shovel and bucket
to collect the debris. Finally vacuum up the area around the fireplace or wood
stove area. With that, your chimney is again ready for use.
For information on maximizing your
wood stove’s home heating efficiency see
the “Installation
of Hood over Wood Stove Ebook”.
Find a Pre-Screened Heating Contractor in Your Area
Wood Burning Stove and Fireplace Information from Amazon.com
Wood Stoves from Amazon.com
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