Chimney sweeping logs may seem like a good idea in theory, but they can actually cause serious problems within your chimney system. Instead of relying on a chimney cleaning log, it's best to have a professional chimney sweep come in and keep your chimney clean and your family safe. Creosote logs are designed to help break down creosote and residual tar, reducing the chances of a chimney fire. However, it's important to never put a creosote sweeping log in a blazing fire.
Once the log is burning, it's best to leave it alone. Pricking it or adding fuel to the fire can cause it to get too hot. After the flames go out, the trunk will continue to smoke, so keep the hatch open. Chimney sweeping logs can't clean your chimney, but they can have their place in your overall chimney maintenance program.
Let's take a look at how sweeping logs can help you and your chimney sweep. Creosote logs work to loosen creosote and make chimney cleaning easier. However, these logs are not a substitute for a complete chimney sweep. According to the Chimney Safety Institute of America, creosote logs are effective products when used in conjunction with a professional chimney sweep.
Although they do not remove that layer completely, it is essential that an expert clean the flue duct properly after burning the chimney sweep trunk. A certified chimney professional can identify any signs of chimney damage or deterioration during a clean; often, detecting problems early can help prevent serious damage, as well as costly repairs. Because most chimney problems are out of sight, it can be very easy to forget about regular maintenance and cleaning. The chimney sweep will alert you to the problem so that you can repair the chimney before using it.
An experienced chimney sweep does much more than clean the chimney and chimney flue. They really can make your fireplace easier to maintain, but they cannot replace regular professional cleaning and will only help you if you use them properly. Leave it like this for a week or two, as the chemicals in the chimney cleaning log do their job. Ultimately, you still need a professional chimney sweep out and clean your chimney before using it, especially if you plan to use it as a frequent source of heat during the fall and winter seasons. If you burn one or two fires a week, it's enough to burn a chimney cleaning log at the beginning or middle of the season. CSIA-certified chimney sweeps clean, inspect and repair chimneys, because after all, chimneys wear out like other parts of your home.
While chimney cleaning logs can reduce creosote buildup, they don't completely eliminate or prevent it. And finally, the chimney sweep must examine the flue of the gas chimney to ensure that the oven and water heater safely vent any carbon monoxide to the exterior doors. But there's another benefit to having your chimney professionally cleaned on a regular basis: it could save your life!.
