Posted on May 2, 2023

As a homeowner, it's easy to overlook the importance of your chimney. But just like any other part of your home, your chimney requires regular maintenance and inspections to ensure it's functioning properly and safely. In fact, neglecting your chimney can lead to a range of problems, from decreased energy efficiency to safety hazards. In this post, we'll outline the top 5 signs that indicate you need a chimney inspection from Empire Chimney Inspections.

Your Chimney Hasn't Been Inspected in Over a Year

Many homeowners overlook the importance of regular chimney inspections. They may assume that as long as their chimney appears to be functioning properly, there's no need for an inspection. However, this can be a dangerous assumption. Even if your chimney appears to be working correctly, it's still possible for it to have accumulated debris and other hazards that can pose a threat to your safety.

Chimneys are designed to vent smoke and other byproducts of combustion out of your home. However, as these substances travel up the chimney, they can leave behind a residue known as creosote. Creosote is highly flammable and can lead to chimney fires. Additionally, debris such as leaves, twigs, and animal nests can also accumulate in your chimney and cause blockages that can prevent smoke and other substances from venting properly.

That's why it's important to schedule a chimney inspection at least once a year. During an inspection, a certified inspector from Empire Chimney Inspections will examine your chimney from top to bottom, looking for any signs of damage, blockages, or other hazards. This can include looking for signs of creosote buildup, checking for debris or obstructions, and making sure that your chimney is properly venting.

If your chimney hasn't been inspected in over a year, it's time to schedule an inspection. Ignoring this crucial maintenance task can put your home and family at risk.

You Notice a Strong Smell Coming From Your Fireplace

If you notice a strong smell coming from your fireplace, it's important to take action right away. This could be a sign that there's an issue with your chimney that needs to be addressed. A smoky or musty odor is often a sign of creosote buildup or a blockage in your chimney.

Creosote is a byproduct of combustion and can accumulate in your chimney over time. This substance is highly flammable and can cause chimney fires if it's not removed. Additionally, if your chimney is blocked, it can prevent smoke and other substances from venting properly, which can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning.

If you notice a strong smell coming from your fireplace, it's important to schedule a chimney inspection right away. An inspector from Empire Chimney Inspections can examine your chimney and identify any issues that need to be addressed. This can include removing creosote buildup, clearing out any debris or obstructions, and making sure that your chimney is properly venting.

Don't ignore a strong smell coming from your fireplace. This could be a sign of a serious problem that requires immediate attention. Contact Empire Chimney Inspections today to schedule an inspection and ensure the safety of your home and family.

You See Debris or Obstructions in Your Chimney

If you notice debris or obstructions in your chimney, it's important to schedule an inspection as soon as possible. Debris, such as leaves, twigs, and animal nests, can accumulate in your chimney and block airflow, which can lead to safety hazards such as chimney fires or carbon monoxide poisoning.

Obstructions can also cause a buildup of pressure within your chimney, which can cause damage to the structure of the chimney itself. This can lead to costly repairs and safety hazards. Additionally, obstructions can prevent smoke and other substances from venting properly, which can decrease the efficiency of your heating system.

During a chimney inspection, an inspector from Empire Chimney Inspections will examine your chimney for any signs of obstructions or debris. They will also check to make sure that your chimney is properly venting and that there are no safety hazards present. If any issues are identified, the inspector will provide recommendations for repairs or other necessary steps to ensure the safety and efficiency of your chimney.

Don't ignore debris or obstructions in your chimney. Contact Empire Chimney Inspections today to schedule an inspection and ensure the safety of your home and family.

Your Chimney Damper Isn't Functioning Properly

The chimney damper is responsible for regulating airflow and controlling the amount of heat that escapes from your home. If your damper isn't functioning properly, it can lead to decreased energy efficiency and increased heating costs.

If your damper is stuck in the open position, it can cause your home to become too hot, which can lead to discomfort and higher energy bills. Alternatively, if your damper is stuck in the closed position, it can cause a buildup of smoke and other byproducts of combustion, which can be dangerous to your health.

During a chimney inspection, an inspector from Empire Chimney Inspections will check your damper to make sure it's functioning properly. They will also check for any signs of damage or wear and tear that may be impacting your damper's performance. If any issues are identified, the inspector will provide recommendations for repairs or other necessary steps to ensure the safety and efficiency of your chimney.

Don't ignore issues with your chimney damper. Contact Empire Chimney Inspections today to schedule an inspection and ensure the safety and comfort of your home.

You've Recently Experienced a Chimney Fire

If you've recently experienced a chimney fire, it's important to schedule an inspection as soon as possible. Chimney fires can cause significant damage to your chimney and increase the risk of future fires. An inspection can identify any damage and ensure your chimney is safe and functioning properly.

At Empire Chimney Inspections, we offer comprehensive inspections that can identify any issues with your chimney and ensure it's functioning properly and safely. Our team of certified inspectors uses the latest equipment and techniques to provide a thorough assessment of your chimney's overall condition.

Don't wait until it's too late to schedule your chimney inspection. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and ensure the safety and efficiency of your chimney. Reach out to us at (609) 592-3200 or email us at [email protected]. We look forward to hearing from you!