Creosote Build Up in Chimneys

Steaming hot in North Carolina this time of year! Thoughts of cold nights and warm fires are as far off in our minds as is tax day in 2020. Before we know it though, the weather and leaves will turn, the first cold night will arrive and you will begin to think how nice it is to have a nice cozy fire to relax to!

Before we “blaze up” that fireplace, it’s important to ensure that we are ready from a safety perspective. When was the last time you had your chimney or wood stove cleaned and inspected? Was it last year, two years or in many cases never? Your chimney and wood stove like your HVAC system should be checked yearly to ensure that it is clean and safe to use. Unlike your HVAC system, if you fail to have it cleaned regularly it can build up dangerous material called “creosote.” Creosote build up is due to many factors including poor wood selection, improper burning of wood (choking down wood stoves so the fire burns-cold), and not getting your chimney cleaned on a regular basis, to name a few.

The importance of regular maintenance is to ensure the proper functioning of your appliance and prevent dangerous creosote build up. Creosote build up leads to costly cleaning, repairs and most importantly dangerous fires. When choosing wood, you want to make sure it is from a hard wood species such as oak or maple (there are others). Once you have your wood it’s important to ensure that is seasoned properly to about 20% moisture content. This will ensure a good burn whether it is in a fireplace for woodstove.

At MJL Services chimney/dryer vent, your safety is our number one priority. Call us today at 704-288-7316 for all of your chimney and dryer vent cleaning needs! Currently offering 20% off chimney and dryer vent cleaning for the month of August!