Orlando, FL – There is always one time during the year when you think of cleaning your chimney. This is usually around the holiday season. Chimney cleaning in Orlando or elsewhere can become a nuisance if you do not know how to properly accomplish the task, or do not have proper utensils to do it. If you use your chimney a lot, be prepared for some thorough cleaning, as burning fires in chimney causes soot to accumulate. Soot is a flammable, sticky substance which can cause fires if not removed. So it is of immense importance to clean your chimney safely.
Preparing to Clean the Chimney
Initial preparations for chimney cleaning in Orlando consist of analyzing how dirty your chimney really is. Take a flashlight to peek inside the chimney flute. You can also use a knife to test how much soot has accumulated by scratching the surface. If it is 1/8-inch thick, it is definitely time for cleaning. It is recommended that you clean your chimney in the fall season, before the burning season begins. Otherwise, you can risk causing a fire when you light the fireplace the first time in winters.
You should also check for any critters or other insects which may have decided to reside in your chimney if it hasn’t been in use for a long time. Birds, raccoons and squirrels usually like to make a nest there. If you find any animals up your chimney, take some steps to remove them before you start your cleaning process. To properly clean your chimney, you need to have proper sized tools. For this you need to measure the sides of your chimney from the bottom or the top depending which is easier for you.
Buying the Supplies
To effectively clean your chimney, you should visit the local hardware store and purchase the following supplies; which are just a onetime investment:
- A plastic or wire chimney brush
- Extension pipes for the brush; this will enable you to clean the whole length.
- A smaller stiff wire brush
- A drop cloth for use inside of your house
- A broom and dustpan
- Mask and goggles
- A ladder which will enable to reach your roof if you want to clean it from the top
Once you have all the initial preparations under control, and all the utensils are by your side, you need to prepare yourself. For chimney cleaning it is essential that you wear your oldest clothes, ones which you wouldn’t mind getting ruined. Get ready to get soot all over you. Cover your hair with a hat or bandanna. You may also want to wear gloves to protect your hands. And lastly, don’t forget to wear a dust mask and goggles to prevent soot from getting into your mouth and eyes. You may additionally want to cover the surrounding area and furniture inside your house with a cloth. Roll back any expensive rugs and finally, now you can get down to cleaning the chimney in your home in Orlando, FL as you are fully prepared.
About ABC Cleaning, Inc of Orlando, FL
Serving Central Florida since 1992, ABC Cleaning, Inc. has been the acknowledged leader in our air duct cleaning, chimney cleaning and dryer vent cleaning. We consistently invest in and have the most modern equipment and technology available, and the best trained service technicians. Call ABC today at (407) 477-4302.
