Home Maintenance Monday 12/2/24
With the cold temperatures actually dipping below freezing here in the Northwest, NOW is the BEST time to make sure that your home’s heating systems are up to the challenge of heating your home through the cold, winter months!
“Baby it’s COLD outside!” A woman sits on a wicker chair in front of a fire with a blanket and a cat on her lap.
HVAC professionals usually recommend having your furnace inspected at least once per year, ideally before winter begins, which makes NOW the perfect time to schedule this check! Yearly maintenance checks generally check over all aspects of your heating system both interior and exterior elements as well as the thermostat to make sure everything is clean and functioning properly. New heating systems often come with a warranty and the installer will usually be happy to perform the annual maintenance. If you are not in touch with the original installation company for your heating system, the Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors Association has a web resource for finding locally associated contractors here: https://www.phccweb.org/tools-resources/find-a-contractor/ The professional that you hire to check your furnace system will usually check and replace your furnace filters if necessary, but it is a good idea to double check to make sure that this necessary maintenance is performed at this time.
A fire burning brightly in a brick hearth.
If you have and use any fireplaces in your home, NOW is also a good time to clean and inspect your chimney! The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recommends that chimneys, fireplaces, and vents be inspected and cleaned annually, this is especially important if you burn wood regularly! You can hire a local professional to perform this task if you are unable to accomplish this chore yourself. The Oregon Chimney Sweeps Association provides tips on how to hire a good chimney sweep on their website here: https://www.oregonchimneysweeps.com/for-homeowners/tips-for-hiring-a-chimney-sweep/
Here is a step by step guide for those of you who are ready to climb up onto the roof yourselves though!
To clean and inspect a chimney, you should first prepare by spreading a drop cloth around the fireplace in the interior of the home to catch debris. You will need to be able to access the chimney from both the top and bottom. It is recommended that you wear protective gear like gloves and goggles when cleaning a chimney.
Exterior Inspection:
Look for cracks in the masonry.
Check for missing bricks.
Examine the flashing around the chimney base.
Ensure the chimney cap is secure and clear of debris.
Interior Inspection (from the top):
Remove the chimney cap.
Use a flashlight to check for creosote buildup inside the flue.
Look for any signs of damage or deterioration in the chimney lining.
Cleaning Process:
Attach a chimney brush to a long pole and carefully insert it into the flue.
Work the brush up and down to scrape off creosote and debris.
Add extension rods as needed to reach the entire chimney length.
Clean the smoke shelf and firebox with a brush or vacuum.
Final Inspection:
Remove all loose debris from the firebox and hearth using a shop vacuum.
Double-check for any remaining creosote buildup.
Reinstall the chimney cap securely.
Important Considerations:
If you notice significant creosote accumulation, structural damage, or are unsure about any aspect of chimney cleaning, always contact a certified chimney sweep to have it professionally inspected!
The silhouette of a home with a chimney standing out against the forest and the stars with light illuminating the windows and curtains from within.
Here’s to hoping everyone I know can stay WARM this winter!