Home Schedule annual chimney inspection ahead of heating season
Local News

Schedule annual chimney inspection ahead of heating season

Contributors
chimney inspection
(© Inga – stock.adobe.com)

Encountering a soot-tinged chimney sweep was historically considered a good omen throughout most of Europe.

Modern Virginians can secure that good luck—or at least some peace of mind—and prevent disaster with an annual chimney inspection. As autumn sets in and temperatures drop, it’s time for homeowners to assess the safety of their chimneys, fireplaces and heating units.

“Your chimney should be cleaned and inspected by a licensed, reputable service each year, which can help prevent fires,” said Dana Fisher, chairman of the Virginia Farm Bureau Federation Farm Safety Advisory Committee. “Cleaning should include removal of accumulated soot, debris or animal nests.”

The Chimney Safety Institute of America asserts that even rarely-used chimneys should be inspected annually. Besides the buildup of combustible soot or animal nests, other types of structural deterioration can make a chimney unsafe to use.

“A thorough inspection of the chimney can locate cracks, which can cause fire to spread from the chimney to your home,” Fisher said.

The CSIA reminds residents that although gas is generally a clean-burning fuel, those using gas logs in a fireplace still need to take precautions. A chimney can still become non-functional when the flue is blocked, forcing carbon monoxide, fumes and soot into living spaces.

Regular maintenance on heating units also can save money on energy bills.

While a licensed chimney service can address clogs, buildup and structural problems, homeowners are encouraged to take extra precautions during the heating season.

Keep fireplace hearths free of debris, decorations and flammable materials. Remove any branches or leaves from the roof or anywhere that could block the chimney. Burn only seasoned, dry wood in fireplaces and wood-burning stoves, and always keep a fire extinguisher nearby.

Additionally, check all smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to ensure they are functioning. Replace the batteries once a year, and test each detector monthly.

To locate your nearest CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep, visit csia.org/search.

Contributors

Contributors

Have a guest column, letter to the editor, story idea or a news tip? Email editor Chris Graham at [email protected]. Subscribe to AFP podcasts on Apple PodcastsSpotifyPandora and YouTube.

Latest News

How to Bet On the Daytona 500 in California
Sports

How to Bet On the Daytona 500 in California

ron sanchez uva basketball vt
Basketball, Sports

The tweak UVA Basketball coach Ron Sanchez would need if he were to get the job full time

One lesson Ron Sanchez could take with him into next year, if he, indeed, ends up getting the UVA Basketball job on a full-time basis after the season, would be, succession planning.

george mason
Basketball, Sports

George Mason rallies, beats Saint Joseph’s, to stay atop A-10 standings

George Mason took the lead for good on a Brayden O’Connor bucket with 1:18 to go, then got a couple of stops on defense to complete the 58-57 win over Saint Joseph’s, to maintain the lead in the A-10.

isaac mckneely uva basketball
Basketball, Sports

Five Observations: UVA Basketball gets more good offense in road win

Daytona 500 Odds, Picks, & How To Bet
NASCAR

Daytona 500 Odds, Picks, & How To Bet

uva basketball
Basketball, Sports

Live Coverage: UVA Basketball grits out 73-70 win at Virginia Tech

How To Bet On The Daytona 500 in Florida
Sports News

How To Bet On The Daytona 500 in Florida