How To Clean A Chimney

The best way to increase the durability of your fireplace chimney is by cleaning it on a regular basis. The process is also necessary to reduce the threat of chimney fires. Cleaning a chimney doesn’t only mean making it look nice and shiny. It also involves the process of removing the hazardous creosote and clearing out the deposits of ash and debris. There are many ways to accomplish the task, one of the most popular being the use of rods and brushes. Go through the article to get the systematic tips and guidance on how to clean a chimney by the simplest method.

How To Clean A Chimney

Things Required

Ladder
Drop cloth
Chimney brush
Stiff-bristled cleaning brush
Rod
Flashlight
Safety goggles
Dusk mask
Gloves
Broom
Vacuum cleaner
Scrub brush

Procedure

Cover the fireplace opening with a drop cloth so that the mess inside the chimney doesn’t get all over your house. Do not forget to protect your furniture and floor by covering them with drop cloths.
Climb up the roof, with your chimney brush, rod and flashlight in hand. Do not forget to put on your safety apparel - safety goggles, gloves and dust mask.
Remove the chimney cap and clean it with the help of a stiff-bristled brush.
Tie a chimney brush to a flexible rod and insert the rod down into the chimney. Make sure that the rod you have chosen is long enough to reach the entire length of your chimney.
Now, clean the chimney by running the brush down, in a short up-and-down plunging motion. Bring the brush back, once it reaches the other end of the chimney.
Repeat the process several times, until all the debris and ashes get cleared out of the chimney.
Double-check with flashlight, for any leftover ashes, and repeat the above steps for missed out spots.
Vacuum clean the fireplace or use a small broom to remove the cold ash.
Use a dry scrub brush to clean the floor and walls of the fireplace. Clean the damper assembly and sides of the firebox with a stiff-bristled brush.
Vacuum-clean the creosote out of the smoke shelf situated behind the fireplace.
Vacuum all the ash and debris once you are done with your work.

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