Do I need a Chimney Upgrade?
September 30, 2014 in Do I need a Chimney Upgrade?
Old
and worn out chimneys or
chimneys that are not compatible
with the fuel or the firebox
they are attached to are a
threat to your safety and
health. It is important to
know the proper safety measures
to take to avoid carbon monoxide
poisoning or a house fire
because creosote in the chimney
caught on fire.
The spring,
when you are done using your heating
appliances and fireplace is the best
time to evaluate your chimney’s
condition and decide on an upgrade.
Proper chimney maintenance involves
an individual investigation and
safety analysis, reviewing
clearances to the firebox and type
of fuel used. Recommendations
about upgrades need to be made if
they are necessary to make your
chimney system safe again. Today,
outdated chimney systems are being
replaced with steel that is
fire-resistant, condensation
resistant, and corrosion resistant.
If you want to
reduce your heating bill and save
money than you have likely
considered upgrading your chimney
system. An increased draft or
the use of cheaper fuel will allow
you to reduce the prices of heating
expenses in your home. If you
install a new firebox that is more
economic when it comes to fuel
consumption, make sure the chimney
is compatible and has no damage.
A chimney must fit the firebox in
its diameter, height, quality of
material, and pass clearance
regulations so that you are safely
heating your house. If your
chimney is not working 100% in sync
with your heating appliance or
fireplace, then any cost savings you
were looking to gain from heating
your home is going up the chimney
flue and disappearing.
If you want
to change your current firebox to
something more modern, you should
hire a professional chimney sweep to
assess your chimney profile and
building materials. A
professional chimney sweep can make
recommendations for what you require
in a replacement that meets NFPA’s
safety regulations and operates
properly.
