Chimney and Fireplace Cleaning For Better Health
No doubt, parents are concerned about anything around the house that could adversely affect the health of themselves and their kids. A dirty chimney or fireplace is probably not the number one place you would consider. Perhaps you should.
A chimney, especially when it is dirty can be the source of:
- Carbon monoxide poisoning
- Respiratory issues
- Eye irritation
- Skin irritation
- Fires
- Allergens, dust, and mold
- Insects and spiders
Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Carbon monoxide poisoning could be the unhealthiest result of a dirty chimney. Incomplete combustion due to a dirty chimney is the source of carbon monoxide, a gas that is hard to detect. The initial symptom of carbon monoxide poisoning is similar to the flu. You may feel nauseas, tired, and suffer with headaches. It could get worse. Breathing in a lot of carbon monoxide gas can cause brain damage, heart problems, and death.
Respiratory Problems
An oily black substance called creosote can build up on the interior walls of your chimney due to use of the fireplace. It can cause breathing problems if not removed and the problem could become worse if any member of your family suffer asthma or other lung issues.
Eye Irritation
Have you experienced eye discomfort? Creosote can also cause eye irritation. If it gets into your eyes, it can trigger a burning sensation that may require medical attention.
Skin Irritation
Although it won’t occur unless you actually come in contact with the creosote, skin irritations can also become an issue for members of your family.
Fires
The most dangerous result of a dirty chimney is an uncontrolled fire that can occur if the creosote build up ignites. This threatens the existence of your entire home. A chimney inspection should be performed annually.
Allergens, Dust, And Mold
Your chimney is an ideal host for allergens, dust, and mold, which can affect the indoor air quality of your home. The mold is due to the accumulation of a small amount of moisture, which can cause it to grow. Although it is true that some molds are harmless, others can cause a great deal of damage to your lungs.
Insects And Spiders
Spiders and insects can enter your home through an opening in the chimney. Many of these creatures bite and carry viruses or bacteria that are unhealthy to you and your family.
How To Stay Safe
A professional chimney sweep should clean your chimney and fireplace at least one time a year. The best time is after the end of the winter fireplace season. Mercer County Chimney Service, located in Hamilton, New Jersey services all of Mercer County when it comes to chimney cleaning, chimney repair, and chimney inspections. We also offer fireplaces and fireplace accessories and have the expertise to install the products that we offer.
Make an appointment with us, and we will send a knowledgeable technician to your home that will inspect and then clean your chimney and fireplace if needed. We can schedule an appointment in advance to inspect and clean your chimney once a year, notify you that the service is about to occur, and then perform the service. There is no need for you to make appointments for a chimney cleaning year after year.
Visit our website or call us at 609-802-5288 to schedule an appointment or to ask us about the products we offer or how to maintain your fireplace and chimney. We look forward to hearing from you.
