Here’s How Your Chimney Could Be A Source Of Microscopic Threats

Who doesn’t love a charming chimney peeking up toward the sky as puffs of smoke billow above it? But as you and your family are cozying up to the roaring fire, did it ever occur to you that your elegant chimney could be a source of deadly bacteria and viruses?

If you want to learn more about how your chimney could be the source of sickness, call a chimney service near you. Meanwhile, you can educate yourself by reading this post.

How Your Chimney Can Be A Home To Microscopic Threats

While chimneys are essential for ventilation and keeping your home safe, they can also be a source of microscopic threats that can cause health problems. In this article, we’ll explore the potential dangers of a dirty chimney and how to mitigate them.

Creosote

Creosote is a black/dark brown tarry matter that forms in the chimney when wood or coal is burned. Every time you use the fireplace, creosote continues to accumulate. Also, it can continue to accumulate if you have neglected professional fireplace maintenance near you for ages!

Since it is also combustible, sparks can easily set off a fire, resulting in the loss of property or worse, lives. The build-up of creosote is actually the main cause of most chimney fires. Its accumulation can also block the chimney vent, trapping dangerous fumes like carbon monoxide in your home.

The only way to eliminate this hidden danger is with a routine chimney sweep performed by certified professionals.

Chimney Obstruction

The chimney acts as a gateway to the outside world, i.e., all sorts of small animals and debris can fall in. if your chimney has also collected quite a few critters, small birds, rodents, and debris, it will be nearly impossible for fumes and smoke to escape.  

A blockage like this can affect the damper as well and prevent it from functioning properly. We have seen so many unsuspecting homeowners getting caught off-guard when smoke starts filling up a room.

Just imagine how catastrophic it could be if an obstruction occurs when the fireplace is left unattended. Protect yourself from this danger and call a professional company for a chimney inspection.

Flue Damage

A damaged flue is another way you can get exposed to threats that seem invisible to the naked eye.

The flue is the protective lining inside the chimney and its purpose is to make sure that carbon monoxide and smoke are able to go out of the chimney. If the flue becomes damaged or cracked, the odorless and toxic gases can get trapped inside your home.

According to the CDC, nearly 50,000 people in the United States are forced to visit the emergency department every year due to accidental carbon monoxide poisoning. It’s recommended to contact a fireplace service to get a digital carbon monoxide detector installed in your home.

United Home Services is Committed to Serve You 24/7

At United Home Services, we offer expert chimney cleaning by licensed and trained professionals. The weather is changing, but before you think of starting up your furnace or building a fire, it is a good idea to call our skilled and experienced cleaners.

 We have the expertise and all the necessary tools, equipment, and resources to identify and resolve potential concerns quickly and efficiently. From chimney cleaning to air conditioner repair, we can handle it all. Call us toll-free at 800-399-4248 or simply write to us online today!