Signs That Your Chimney Needs Cleaning or Repair
With winter approaching, many of us are getting ready to light our fireplaces and enjoy a cozy evening indoors. But before you get the fire going, it’s important to ask yourself: Is my chimney ready? Knowing when your chimney needs cleaning or repair can prevent safety hazards and ensure your fireplace is working efficiently.
So, how can you tell if your chimney needs some attention? Here are a few clear signs that it might be time to call a professional chimney sweep, like Servilar in Lisbon.
1. Your fireplace smells smoky even when it’s not lit
If your fireplace smells like burned wood, even when it hasn’t been used recently, that’s a strong sign that your chimney needs a good cleaning. This lingering campfire smell often means creosote or soot has built up in the chimney, and it’s time to get it cleared out to prevent any risks.
2. It’s harder to keep a fire going
If you’re having trouble getting a fire started or keeping it burning, it could be because your chimney is clogged and restricting airflow. A good fire needs oxygen, and if the chimney is blocked, your fire won’t burn as efficiently. This is a sign that your chimney needs to be cleaned out to restore proper airflow.
3. Smoke Is filling the room
One of the most obvious signs that your chimney needs cleaning is if smoke is coming into the room instead of going up the chimney. If you’ve opened the flue but still find yourself coughing from smoke in the room, that means there’s likely a blockage, and it’s time for a professional sweep.
4. The fireplace damper is covered in black soot
Take a look at your damper—the flap inside the chimney that controls airflow. If it’s black and covered in soot or creosote, that’s a clear sign that your chimney needs cleaning. Creosote buildup can lead to dangerous chimney fires, so regular cleaning is essential.
5. Oily marks on the walls of the fireplace
If you’re seeing oily or sticky marks on the walls of your fireplace, it’s a sign that creosote has built up. This tar-like substance sticks to surfaces and, if not cleaned, becomes a fire hazard. It’s time to call a professional to clean it out before it causes problems.
6. You hear noises or find animal nests
Sometimes, critters like birds or squirrels make themselves at home in chimneys, especially during warmer months. If you hear noises coming from the chimney or notice signs of animal nests, it’s time for a cleaning. These nests can cause blockages that prevent smoke from escaping and create serious risks.
7. It’s been over a year since your last cleaning
Even if you don’t see any obvious signs, it’s a good idea to have your chimney cleaned at least once a year. Regular maintenance helps prevent major issues and keeps your fireplace safe and functional. If it’s been more than a year since your last cleaning, it’s probably time to schedule one.
How often should you clean your chimney?
For most homeowners, annual chimney cleaning is recommended, especially for wood-burning fireplaces. If you’re a frequent user, cleaning once a year is essential. Even if you don’t use your fireplace often, it’s still smart to have it inspected annually to clear out any debris, nests, or buildup.
For gas fireplaces, you might not deal with soot or creosote, but that doesn’t mean you can skip cleaning. Debris, animal nests, or other blockages can still accumulate, so annual inspections are a must.
Why it’s best to call a professional?
Chimney cleaning sounds like a simple job, but it’s messy and can be tricky. Doing it yourself might leave some areas missed, and that can lead to bigger problems. That’s why most homeowners hire professionals like Servilar in Lisbon to take care of it.
We use mechanized cleaning methods that are faster, more thorough, and less messy than traditional manual sweeps. Plus, we provide a video inspection report at the end, so you can see that everything has been taken care of properly.
With experienced professionals, you’re not only saving yourself the hassle but ensuring that your chimney is safe and ready for use.
Ready to get your chimney cleaned?
If you’ve noticed any of these signs—or if it’s simply been a while since your last cleaning—it’s time to get your chimney checked out. At Servilar, we offer expert chimney cleaning and repair services in Lisbon, helping to keep your fireplace safe, clean, and ready for winter.
Contact us today to schedule your chimney cleaning or repair and enjoy a cozy, worry-free season by the fire!
