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We hope that you find our articles on the proper use, care and service of fireplaces, stoves and chimneys interesting and informative. As New York’s Hudson Valley leader for all Chimney Sweep, Chimney Service, Stove & Fireplace installation and Gas Appliance Maintenance we want to make sure consumers have access to this helpful information. Keeping your Fireplace, Stove, Chimney and Venting Systems in top working order is just as important as any other system in your home. Your family’s comfort and safety are our first priority!
8 Easy Ways to Prevent a Chimney Fire
Chimney fires can create explosive flames but most are slow-burning and go undetected until a chimney inspection is performed. A myth that many homeowners have believed, unfortunately, is that chimney fires are useful for cleaning the creosote from the flue. This can be a dangerous misconception, since the damage caused by chimney fires can be […]
How to Control a Fireplace Damper
The damper is one of the most important components on your fireplace. It is the vent at the top of the firebox that opens to allow oxygen from outside to feed the fire and smoke to vent outside. When you aren’t using your fireplace, it prevents drafts and keeps heated/cooled air inside your house from […]
Cleaning Your Wood Stove Before Winter Sets In
If you use a wood stove, you know that it is an efficient source of home heating during the winter. But as you continue to burn wood, its efficiency is reduced. This not only increases heating costs, but also increases the risk of a chimney fire. That’s why it’s important to clean out the wood […]
Bees in the Chimney? Here’s What To Do
Bees are among the creatures frequently found in chimneys, and it’s important to get them out as quickly as possible. If you start seeing bees in your fireplace or elsewhere in the house, there is a good chance an active beehive already exists or is in the works. It’s best to call a licensed bee company. The following are helpful insights about bees and the problems […]
Consider Installing a New Fireplace Insert for the Winter Burn Season
Renovating your fireplace isn’t the only way to update its look and improve its energy efficiency. A fireplace insert is a more affordable solution. This heating appliance will give your fireplace a facelift and cut down on your heat and cooling costs without the high price and inconvenience of a fireplace remodel. What is a fireplace insert? A fireplace insert is a specially […]
Prep Your Fireplace & Chimney
Thinking about cool weather during the heat of summer can be pleasant, but it is also advisable to get ready for the coming colder temperatures. A fireplace and chimney both need to be prepared before winter use. Prepping your fireplace and chimney for winter will improve safety and operational efficiency. Chimney and Fireplace Inspection Annual inspections are recommended by the leading fire […]
Common Chimney Problems to Watch For in Spring and Summer
Chimneys are vulnerable to certain types of damage in any season, including summer. This is often a surprise to homeowners. A lot more people recognize that freezing temperatures in winter can wreak havoc on chimney masonry. Hidden danger can occur in spring and summer, as well. Annual inspections recommended by the most recognized fire safety organizations can mean a chimney professional discovers any damage done […]
5 Tips for Buying a New Fireplace
Looking for a new fireplace for the first time? If you’ve never bought a fireplace, the wide range of options available can be overwhelming. Fireplaces come in every style from classic to modern and everything in between. Every model has a different heat output along with a range of incredible available features. To help you […]
Is Your Fireplace Increasing Your Summer Cooling Costs?
On a hot summer day, it can be a pleasure to relax indoors next to a charming mantel in the air conditioning. Unfortunately, sitting beside your fireplace could be uncomfortably warm, even without a fire going, if your fireplace is not energy efficient. Hot air from outside can come down the chimney, heating up the […]
What Causes Structural Damage on Chimneys?
Worn, vintage brick is a great look for many design styles, but it should not be a welcome sight on chimneys. It’s a seriously dangerous situation when chimney masonry leans or has gaps that can cause structural damage. Such structural impairment could be evidence that the flue is also damaged, making the home vulnerable to […]