Three Reasons to Avoid Chimney Cleaning Logs

Some of the most convenient fireplace products on the market can be bought at your local home improvement or hardware store. There are chemical products for suppressing fires, starting fires, and cleaning your chimney of creosote. All three of these products bear the CSIA Accepted Products logo, which means:

• 1. They are related to hearths, sweeping, and chimneys,
• 2. They are tested and listed to a nationally recognized performance standard, and
• 3. Chimney cleaning logs meet nationally recognized standards for safety.

Chimney sweep logs match these factors and have good reviews online. So what is the problem? At Chimney Solutions Indiana we have the solution for your chimneys, and with proper use and maintenance, you won’t need to spend extra money on chimney sweeping logs or similar products.

Improper use can raise the risk of fire.

The products are tested and rated for a specific use. The instructions should be followed precisely in order for the logs to work properly, and to avoid a too-hot and dangerous fire. You must place the log away from hot embers. Placing the log onto hot embers, poking, or breaking open the log will cause a dangerous fire. Instructions are just as important in stoves and inserts as well. Attempting to remove or move a burned sweeping log can cause burns, particulate pollution, and damaged fireplace tools. It’s also important to keep the damper fully open until the fire is completely out, and coals are cool. If your damper is not working properly, you should not burn a chimney sweeping log in your fireplace or appliance.

They do not replace professional chimney sweeps.

Many homeowners might assume their chimneys are clean because they’re consistently using chimney sweep logs. Too many may be using the logs incorrectly and even as a replacement for professional services. This is not recommended. Even the Creosote Sweeping Log website itself mentions the CSIA standard for annual chimney inspections to check for blockages and structural damage. If you neglect your routine maintenance, including chimney sweeping services, your chimney will be at higher risk for fire through burning season and will be the culprit of stinky odors through summer. Furthermore, your homeowner’s insurance will not care if you use these logs. They want proof that your chimney system has been maintained by a professional (like those found at Chimney Solutions Indiana).

They do not remove creosote completely.

According to the manufacturer, the Creosote Sweeping Log uses minerals that react with creosote, transforming them into brittle bits that fall to the bottom of the chimney. You have to remove the little bits of creosote left behind. If you use chimney cleaning logs regularly, you might have less creosote to deal with. However, you must remove the remaining bits left with the soot.

Creosote cleaning products can be helpful in some instances, but a better and cheaper option is simply to burn only properly seasoned wood in your fireplace. To keep it working efficiently, have your fireplace inspected and cleaned regularly.