While chimney inspection is vital for the proper functioning of the fireplace, studies by chimney experts show that most homeowners don’t know when they should inspect their chimneys. To help you out, here are situations when you should do it:

After a storm

This is crucial. If you live in a storm-prone area, you should inspect your chimney immediately after a storm. The heavy winds, snow, hail, and rains tend to compromise the integrity and effectiveness of the chimney which significantly affects its performance. In most cases, the storm elements reduce the ability of the chimney to send exhaust fumes from out of the house.

When this happens, you put yourself and family members at the risk of inhaling the harmful gases. To avoid this, hire a chimney contractor immediately after the storm. The professional will inspect the unit and if it has weak areas, fix it.

Change of heating source

It’s common for homeowners to improve their heating sources. For example, some homeowners will change their primary heat source from wood to gas and vice versa. If this the case with you, you should hire a professional to inspect the chimney and determine whether the chimney can handle the change. For peace of mind of mind that the chimney will be inspected properly, hire a reputable professional to help you out.

After relining the chimney

After you have installed a flue, it’s common for the chimney to shift. To avoid putting yourself and family members at risk, don’t go ahead and continue using the fireplace. You should hire a chimney expert to inspect the unit and find out if everything is okay.

At the end of every year

Whether you are using the fireplace or not, you should make it a habit of hiring a chimney professional at the end of every year to inspect the unit and fixing any issues it might be having. It’s common for birds to form nests in the chimney which can block the unit putting you and your family at the risk of inhaling harmful gases. The birds and animals might also die in the chimney putting you at the risk of developing diseases.

Conclusion

These are some of the instances when you should inspect your chimney. You should note that you shouldn’t check the unit on your own. The best way of going about is hiring a chimney cleaning or any other professional to help you out.