Many homeowners don’t know that furnaces, water heaters, and boilers have chimneys, or flues. The flue carries the gases and combustion safely outside the house. While there are many types of chimneys, they all protect the home from the danger of fire and gas buildup. Regular maintenance and inspection ensures the chimney has not deterioration and functions properly.
Chimney vs. Flue
The flue channels the soot, gases, and carbon dioxide away from the house to the atmosphere. The chimney houses the flue. You can see the top of the chimney peeking out from your rooftop. Many types of chimneys help funnel the heat and gases away from the home. Even if you do not have a fireplace, you might need a flue for:
- Boilers
- Furnaces
- Water heaters
- Wood stoves
Your chimney may have several flues. No two appliances will share a single flue. An inspector should check each flue to clear blockages, ensure structural integrity, and clean buildup. Oil burning appliances may build up soot. A traditional fireplace builds up creosote. Gas appliances might have chlorine, sulfur, and acidic buildup. Any of these substances can lead to harmful corrosion and deterioration.
Blockages and Chimney Leaks
Blockage from debris, animals, and leaves reduce functionality and may cause a safety hazard. A blocked chimney may result in carbon monoxide poisoning and a fire hazard. Other issues to look out for involve chimney leaks and deterioration. For example, over time the masonry may need repair or you might need to seal a chimney leak. A chimney leak lets water and moisture into the chimney, damaging the structural integrity of the chimney.
Chimney Caps
A chimney cap provides additional protection for your home. They prevent nests, animals, and leaves from building up and blocking your chimney. A cracked chimney cap needs repair. An annual chimney inspection will help you see if you need to replace or repair your chimney cap.
Do you need a chimney inspection or repair? Call the experts at Cummins Restoration. We provide high quality chimney repair and will inspect your chimney. Trust our seasoned technicians to provide you quality service every time. Contact us today.
