It’s Heating Up Out There!It’s Heating Up Out There!
As the summer heat builds, some peculiar things can start happening to your chimney. Some are easy to spot, while others go unnoticed. Here’s what to look out for…
1 – Your Room Starts Smelling of Soot
Chimneys aren’t the nicest-smelling places, but usually, the odours stay put. Normally, chimneys use the weather and their design to draw air upwards and out of your home. However, in summer, this can reverse, pushing air downwards. This is because the outside air becomes warmer than the air inside. If you have an open fireplace, smells can start wafting into your room. And the dirtier the chimney, the stronger the smell.
2 – Dust and Debris Fall Down the Chimney
Chimneys are also pretty dirty, filled with coal dust, ash, and old mortar made from sand, cement, or lime (especially in older homes). As the temperature rises, traditional brick chimneys can ‘dry out’. The once-hard mortar becomes crumbly and falls. The summer’s downward draught can also bring soot and dirt with it. A bit of mortar in the grate isn’t a huge worry, but larger amounts could mean something else is wrong. It’s always best to get it checked.
3 Humidity Levels Rise – Bad News for Chimney Liners
For closed appliances (like wood burners or multi-fuel stoves), the chimney can become more humid in summer. Sometimes, you might see tiny drops of water on your stove. Most of the time, it stays in the chimney, mixing with the soot and mortar. This is bad news for metal chimney liners, as water and soot together cause corrosion.
So, What Can You Do?
Get Your Chimney Swept: Spring or summer is a good time for a chimney sweep. This helps prevent smells and stops debris from falling. It’s especially important for lined chimneys, as soot is harmful to the metal. Ventilate Your Chimney: Open all air vents on your stove and leave the door slightly ajar. If you have an open fire, opening the damper can help. While it’s tempting to keep it closed, good ventilation is the best defence, along with a clean chimney.
Book Your Sweep Now
Don’t wait until it’s too late to get your chimney and stove flue checked and cleaned. Regular maintenance is key to preventing fire hazards and ensuring efficient operation. To book your Chimney Sweep in the Newton Abbot, Torquay, Dawlish, Teignmouth, Bovey Tracey, Chagford and surrounding areas with ProSweep Devon call us on 01626 832051.
By selecting ProSweep Devon, you’re making a discerning choice that extends beyond mere maintenance. You’re investing in the safety and optimal performance of your chimney and stove flue, safeguarding your home and loved ones from potential hazards. Our commitment to professionalism and integrity is unwavering, ensuring you receive a service that is not only thorough but also conducted with the utmost care and expertise. Experience the tranquility that accompanies a clean and secure chimney and stove flue. Book your appointment with ProSweep Devon today and allow us to deliver the peace of mind you deserve.
