Chimney Maintenance

By Elke Duffy, Broker
Amador Realty, www.amadorrealty.com  

 

Yes, it is that time of year again. Those of you who own a fireplace or wood burning stove are probably looking forward to those lovely evenings when the glow and the warmth of the fire gives you that special feeling of well-being.

It is very important to have a proper fireplace and chimney maintenance program in place that will prevent possible flue fires or carbon monoxide poisoning and keep you and your family safe.

Chimney fires are very scary and dangerous. Some smoke from your cozy fire will condense into creosote on the inside of the chimney. Creosote builds up slowly over time after each fire. If creosote in the flue catches fire, there will be a nasty chimney fire. Chimney fires can get so hot that nearby walls and rafters burst into flames and they can spread with lightning speed. The extremely high temper caused by chimney fires can lead to cracks forming in the flue and chimney. This can cause carbon monoxide, which normally vents safely up the chimney, to be drawn back into the house.

So, what can we do to make sure we are safe? Depending on how many fires you light in your fireplace or woodstove, it is advisable to consult a chimney sweep/inspector once a year, less frequently if you do not use your fireplace very often. The money you spend on a thorough chimney inspection and cleaning is well spent. It will give you that peace of mind knowing that
with regular preventive care most major chimney problems can be prevented.

HIDDEN NAME: Congratulations!

Paul Ludovina, Ludy's Main St. BBQ & Catering

You and a guest will receive a complimentary entry into next month's Chamber Mixer ($20 value!)

Nov. 18 - Bank of Amador, 422 Sutter Street, Jackson

Call (209) 223-0350 or email and tell us you saw your name! It's that simple!