Chimney Sweeping and Chimney Care FAQ
We have the top chimney sweeps in the HRM, and can do minor repairs to your refectory, brick replacement, gasket repair, reorientation of flue, and other chimney issues. You can rest easy with our clean and experienced, certified technicians on the job.
***Please note that we are currently servicing wood-burning systems only
Why chimney sweeping?
Fires can occur –Â and they usually start in the flue.
Getting your chimney swept is essential for maintaining a safe and efficient fireplace or heating system. Over time, creosote, a byproduct of burning wood, can build up inside the chimney. This highly flammable substance can pose a serious fire hazard if not removed regularly. A professional chimney sweep will check for issues, such as blockages or structural problems, ensuring that your chimney operates smoothly. A clean chimney provides efficient ventilation and allows for smoke and dangerous toxins to escape the home. When there is not sufficient ventilation creosote can build up in the chimney. Chimneys can also gather twigs, leave, and sometimes bird nests that should be removed to prevent fires. It’s like giving your chimney a spa day—it deserves some care too!
How often should you have your chimney cleaned?
The frequency of chimney sweeping depends on how often you use your fireplace or wood heating appliance. As a general guideline, it’s recommended to have your chimney inspected and swept at least once a year. However, if you use your fireplace more frequently, such as daily during the winter, you might need more frequent cleanings. We would suggest every six months especially if you are burning wood that is not cured.
It’s always a good idea to schedule a professional chimney inspection to assess the buildup of creosote and other potential issues. Safety first, right?
When is the best time to have a chimney swept?
You should have your chimney swept before you start to burn for the season. Booking in the spring or summer gives you more flexibility with scheduling as well as price savings. Also be aware that the fall can be quite busy and difficult to get an appointment. The spring and summer are by far the safest time of the year to avoid working around ice or snow. If you do wait until the fall, you should book sooner than later because it’s a busy time for chimney sweeps.
Why should you hire a WETT-certified chimney sweep?
This will allow your insurance company (and your family) to trust that your wood stove, pellet stove or fireplace appliance and flue have been properly serviced by a certified professional. Training and certification with WETT Inc. allow our technicians to offer the most current and up-to-date safety and code-compliant service.
More Information About Wood Heating and Chimneys in Nova Scotia
Wood As A Primary Heat Source
Approximately three million Canadians use wood as their primary or secondary heat source. While wood heat provides comfort, warmth, and a view, there are risks and safety considerations to be mindful of.
Wood Heat Chimneys
Wood stoves require chimneys to remove smoke and fumes from the firebox out of the home, and because of this, they require regular maintenance and cleaning. This ensures that they are operating efficiently and with minimal risk.
Creosote is a flammable tar-like substance that can build up on the inside of chimneys when burning wood. This is most likely to occur when burning wood that is not sufficiently seasoned.
Efficiency Nova Scotia recommends that wood dries out for at least six months before being used in a wood stove and the moisture content should be below 20% which can be checked with a wood moisture meter.
To prevent creosote buildup, it is recommended that chimneys be cleaned at least once a year. However, fire officials encourage cleaning more often, especially if your wood is not seasoned.
Chimney Fires
Accounting for 14-20% of residential fires, chimney fires are the third leading cause of residential fires in Canada according to the most recent statistics. The sad part is that they are entirely preventable!
Not only can chimney fires be dangerous due to the high temperatures that a creosote fire can reach, they can cause damage to the home, injuries, and even death. Then you have to calculate the cost of repairing a chimney or wood stove damaged by fire which can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars, depending on the type of chimney.
Wood Fires and Insurance
Due to the potential risk, some insurance companies will not provide home insurance (or will enforce an increased rate) if wood heat is your primary or secondary heat source. It is important to check with your insurance company before installing or beginning to use a wood stove for this reason. Take note; that more often than not they will ask for a WETT Inspection report.
Being aware of the risks and the considerations involved in using wood heat in your home is essential to ensure that you can enjoy the warmth and comfort without risking safety.
When it comes to insurance and wood-burning apparatus, insurance companies generally want to ensure that you’re taking proper precautions to minimize the risk of fire damage.
Here are a few things they might look for:
- Installation by Professionals: If you have a wood-burning stove or fireplace, insurance companies often prefer that it be installed by a certified professional. This ensures that it meets safety standards.
- Regular Maintenance: Regular inspections and maintenance are crucial. Insurance companies want to see that you’re cleaning the chimney, checking for any issues with the flue or chimney liner, and ensuring that the overall system is in good working condition.
- Compliance with Building Codes: Make sure your wood-burning apparatus complies with local building codes. Insurance companies may inquire about this to ensure that the installation is up to standard.
- Proper Clearances: There are specific clearance requirements for wood-burning appliances to surrounding combustible materials. Insurance companies will want to ensure that these clearances are maintained to reduce the risk of fire spreading.
- Type of Wood Used: Believe it or not, the type of wood you burn matters. Hardwoods are generally preferred over softwoods because they produce less creosote buildup in the chimney.
- Usage and Supervision: Insurance companies may be interested in how often you use the wood-burning apparatus and whether you follow safety guidelines. Unattended fires pose a higher risk, so responsible usage is essential.
- Documentation: Keep records of professional installations, maintenance, and any improvements or modifications made to the wood-burning system. This documentation can be useful in case of an insurance claim.
By adhering to safety guidelines and ensuring your wood-burning apparatus is well-maintained, you not only reduce the risk of fire but also demonstrate responsible ownership to your insurance company. It’s a win-win for a cozy and secure home!
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Chimney Safety Tips
Having your chimney inspected and cleaned regularly and using dry, seasoned firewood are the most crucial things you can do to ensure the safest operation of your wood stove.