Why Is It Dangerous to Have Debris Blocking Your Chimney?

Your fireplace will only work efficiently if the chimney is in good shape. If this component malfunctions, there would be no exits for smoke and combustion byproducts to escape. What’s more dangerous is a chimney that is blocked with debris. 

Keep on reading to find out why this debris in chimneys is dangerous. 

How Do You Know if Your Chimney Is Blocked?

The most common sign of a blocked chimney is a smoky odor, especially when there is a fire burning. The flue should bring the smoke up and outside your home if the chimney does not have clogs. A blocked chimney will prevent smoke from escaping, and it can cause major issues, such as fireplace back puffing.

Another sign you may need to contact a chimney sweep is when there is debris sticking out of the fireplace. Moreover, when you use your chimney frequently, byproducts can build up quickly. You can reduce the number of byproducts by using properly seasoned wood, but soot can still fill your chimney over time. If you see a lot of visible soot, there’s a high chance that there is also buildup in less noticeable areas. 

Why Should You Address This Problem Immediately?

A blocked chimney is at high risk of catching fire. Chimney fires typically start because of creosote deposit buildup in the flue. These deposits accumulate over time, become hot and ignite a fire. Ignited creosote can cause severe damage that can go beyond the chimney. 

One more problem that can occur due to blocked chimneys is carbon monoxide poisoning. It’s difficult to tell if there is carbon monoxide in the air until you start experiencing poisoning symptoms. This is because this gas is invisible, tasteless and odorless. Some of the most common signs of carbon monoxide poisoning include dizziness, nausea, headache, confusion and loss of consciousness. 

Get your chimney inspected by a professional to avoid these issues. At Chimney Doctors, we offer quality chimney relining, sweeping and cleaning services. Call us at (518) 882-5009, or fill out our contact form to get a free estimate. We serve clients around Saratoga Springs, NY.