Chimney Sweeping in River Forest, IL

River Forest Chimney Sweeping FAQ

How often should I have my chimney swept?

It is heavily recommended by experts that you check on your fireplaces annually. There is a surprising amount of complicated equipment for a furnishing that seems so simple. The amount of problems that can go undetected in the flue alone is cause enough for concern. The National Fire Protection Association is also advising annual checkups for your chimney, as every fireplace is a potential fire hazard when left untreated.

How exactly does a company sweep my chimney?

We've come a long way from putting human beings down a chimney. It modern society, there is a strict set of guidelines and procedures for every chimney we service. In essence, instead of physically sending someone down the chimney, we instead use a powerful vacuum to suck all the soot and ash out. The mess is minimal, and everything goes out a controlled tube out the door. We'll even put down mats just in case, but there's not much cause for worry. Your chimney will be clean within the hour!

I use a gas furnace, do I still need my chimney swept?

Even though you don't have to worry about soot and ash with gas, there is still a buildup along the walls of your chimney and flue. This is especially true when it encounters cooler gasses with heavy humidity. The main gas here is oxygen, especially in the cold night air. And as always, there is always the possibility that a family of birds or other nesting animals have set up a home there. Better to have them removed than smoke them out!