Prevent Home Fires with Proper Chimney Use and Care

October is Fire Prevention Month, the perfect time to review some important chimney safety tips from the certified experts at Admiralty Chimney. 

According to the Chimney Safety Institute of America, over 25,000 chimney fires occur across the US each year.

Why Chimney Safety Matters

If you’re not properly maintaining and using your chimney and fireplace, your next fire could quickly go from cozy to catastrophic. Please take a moment to review these chimney and fireplace safety tips and contact us if you have any questions.

Top Tips for Chimney and Fireplace Safety

1. Schedule an annual chimney inspection.

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) recommend that all chimneys, fireplaces, and vents be inspected at least once* a year. During your annual inspection, our certified technicians will check for chimney blockages, damage, and creosote buildup that can cause a fire or carbon monoxide leaks.

*This guideline applies even if you don’t use your chimney very often.

2. Keep your chimney clean.

If your inspection reveals any buildup, schedule a professional chimney cleaning before using your fireplace for the season. Routine sweeping removes soot and creosote that could easily ignite.

3. Burn the right type of wood.

Avoid burning wet or green wood, as it produces excessive smoke and sticky creosote. Use seasoned hardwoods like oak, maple, or birch for cleaner, hotter, and safer fires.

>LEARN MORE: How to Select and Store Firewood 

4. Know what NOT to burn in your fireplace.

In addition to unseasoned hardwood, here is a list of what not to burn in your fireplace:

• Cardboard

• Colored Paper

• Seasonal Decorations and Wrappings

• Wet Firewood

• Christmas Trees and Other Evergreen Wood

• Garbage

• Fresh Fruit Peels

• Dryer Lint

5. Install a Chimney Cap

A chimney cap prevents birds, leaves, and other debris from entering your flue, reducing blockages and keeping out rain or snow that can damage your chimney’s interior.

6. Use a Fireplace Screen or Door

A sturdy fireplace screen or glass door stops sparks and embers from escaping into your living space, protecting your flooring and furnishings from stray flames.

7. Keep Decorations and Furniture at a Safe Distance

It’s important to remember that heat radiating from a fireplace or chimney can ignite nearby materials. Always keep decorations, curtains, and furniture at least three feet away from your hearth or chimney area. This is especially important during the holidays, when garlands, stockings, and other flammable decorations are often placed too close to the fire.

8. Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

No matter how well you maintain your chimney, working smoke and CO detectors are essential. Test them monthly and replace batteries twice a year for reliable protection.

Chimney Cleanings and Inspections in Southern NH

Admiralty Chimney offers chimney inspections and cleanings for homeowners in Merrimack, Amherst, Nashua, and surrounding communities. Schedule your annual inspection and cleaning today!

About Admiralty Chimney

For over 20 years, Admiralty Chimney has served the chimney maintenance and repair needs of homeowners in Southern New Hampshire and Northern Massachusetts. We have outstanding Google reviews and hold an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau.

Get Your Fireplace and Chimney Ready for the Burning Season

As the temperatures begin to drop here in New England, many homeowners are eager to light the first fire of the season. But before you strike that match, it’s important to make sure your fireplace and chimney are safe, clean, and ready to use. Here’s what you need to do:

Schedule a Professional Chimney Inspection

A yearly inspection is essential for spotting issues like creosote buildup, blockages, or structural damage. Admiralty Chimney follows National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standards to ensure your system is safe and efficient. Schedule early in the season to avoid the rush.

>READ MORE:  Everything You Should Know About Chimney Inspections

Get a Chimney Sweep

Even a thin layer of creosote is a fire hazard. A professional cleaning removes this highly flammable material, along with leaves, twigs, or bird nests that can block airflow and cause smoke to back up into your home.

Check Your Fireplace Components

Inspect your damper to ensure it opens and closes smoothly, examine your firebox for cracks, and make sure your chimney cap is secure to keep out animals and debris.

Clear the Area Around Your Fireplace

For safety reasons, move any rugs, curtains, furniture, or decorative items at least three feet away from your fireplace. Note:  These items should be moved even if you have a fireplace screen.

Address Any Needed Masonry Work

If your chimney’s masonry is in need of repair, schedule any required work before the temperatures get too low. Mortar cures best on warm, dry days. Cracked, stained, or missing bricks and crumbling mortar joints are all signs of masonry trouble. If you’re seeing any of these signs of masonry damage, please contact our office, and we’ll come take a look at your chimney.

Consider Waterproofing Your Chimney

Protect your chimney from the winter freeze-thaw cycle with professional waterproofing. “Many of our customers are surprised to learn that water, not fire, is the leading cause of chimney damage,” says John Butler, a CCP-Certified Master Chimney Technician and owner of Admiralty Chimney. 

>LEARN MORE:  The dangers of water damage and the benefits of waterproofing your chimney.

Chimney Cleanings and Inspections in Southern NH and Northern MA

By preparing now, you can enjoy a warm, cozy, and worry-free burning season. Contact Admiralty Chimney to schedule your chimney inspection and cleaning. Your safety and comfort are always our top priority.

About Admiralty Chimney

For over 20 years, Admiralty Chimney has served the chimney maintenance and repair needs of homeowners in Southern New Hampshire and Northern Massachusetts. An award-winning chimney service company, we have outstanding Google reviews and hold an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau.

Everything You Should Know About Chimney Inspections

When it comes to maintaining a safe and efficient fireplace or woodstove, yearly chimney inspections are crucial. Whether you’re a new homeowner or have had a fireplace for years, understanding the ins and outs of chimney inspections can help ensure your system operates smoothly and safely. To help clarify what you need to know, here are the answers to the most common questions about chimney inspections. 

1. Why do I need a chimney inspection?

Chimney inspections are crucial for identifying and addressing potential hazards, such as creosote buildup, structural damage, or blockages, that can lead to dangerous chimney fires or carbon monoxide leaks. Regular inspections help ensure your chimney is functioning safely and efficiently.

2. How often should my chimney be inspected? 

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recommends that you have your chimney inspected at least once a year. However, if you use your fireplace frequently or experience issues such as smoke backup, it may require more frequent inspections. 

3. What is the cost of a chimney inspection?

At Admiralty Chimney, we offer three levels of chimney inspections in accordance with the standards set forth by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA 211). Our fees start at $85 and vary according to several factors, including:

• Obstacles That Create Extra Work or Require Special Tools

• Excessive Creosote Build-up

• Cracked Clay Flue Tiles (that make it unsafe to drop a brush down the chimney)

• Presence of Dead Animals, Nests, or Excessive Debris 

>Please visit our website for a detailed description of the three levels and associated fees.

4. What’s involved in a chimney inspection?

A standard chimney inspection typically includes a visual examination of the chimney's exterior and interior, checking for signs of damage, blockages, or creosote buildup. More detailed inspections may involve the use of cameras or other tools to assess hard-to-reach areas.

5. How long does a chimney inspection take?

A standard chimney inspection typically takes between 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the size and condition of the chimney. More detailed inspections, such as Level 2 or Level 3, may require additional time and resources.

6. What happens during a chimney inspection?

During an inspection, our CSIA-certified chimney technicians will examine your chimney from top to bottom. They will check for structural integrity, ensure proper ventilation, look for signs of wear or damage, and assess the condition of the flue liner. They may also use specialized tools to get a closer look at hidden areas.

7. What problems are commonly identified during a chimney inspection?

Common issues include creosote buildup, blockages from debris or animal nests, cracks in the chimney liner, damaged mortar or bricks, and signs of water damage. Identifying these problems early can prevent more costly repairs or safety hazards down the line.

>RELATED READING: 5 Common Problems Found During a Chimney Inspection

8. Why can’t I inspect my chimney myself?

While you can perform a basic visual inspection yourself, it's advisable to have our CSIA-certified professionals conduct a thorough inspection. Our team has the experience, tools, and training needed to identify and address potential issues that might not be apparent to an untrained eye.

9. What happens if problems are found during an inspection?

If an inspection reveals issues with your chimney, we will provide a detailed report and recommend necessary repairs. It's important to address these issues promptly to ensure the safety and efficiency of your fireplace. At your request, we provide a cost estimate for any services that may be required.

Chimney Inspections in Southern NH and Northern MA

Regular chimney inspections are a key component of fireplace safety and maintenance. If it’s been a while since your last inspection, Contact us to schedule one with our certified technicians.