Things You'll Need:
- Wire chimney brush
- Chimney brush weight
- Chimney rope or connecting poles
- Dust mask or respirator
- Goggles or eye protection
- Gloves
- Tarps
- 2-inch wide masking tape
- Shop vac
- Safety harness
- Heavy-duty sheet plastic
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Step 1
Wait at least 48 hours after a fire in the fireplace before cleaning the chimney. Remove the grate from the log box. Remove any ash and residue and place it in a fire-resistant container.
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Step 2
Prepare the interior of the house by sealing off the opening of the fireplace. Use heavy-duty plastic and secure it to the fireplace opening with masking tape to prevent dust and ash from entering the room. Cover furniture and carpet with clean tarps.
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Step 3
Climb onto the roof using proper safety precautions. Access the chimney and remove the cap.
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Step 4
Assemble the wire brush and weight. Attach it to the rope or connecting poles. Drop the wire brush down the chimney while swinging it back and forth inside the flue. Use short strokes while working down the chimney.
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Step 5
Return to the inside of the house. Remove any dusty clothing, shoes and gloves. Remove the plastic sheet from the fireplace and fold the soiled side into itself. Put gloves on again and scoop dust and debris out of the firebox and place it in a plastic bag.
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Step 6
Fold up all the tarps around the fireplace on themselves to prevent spreading fine dust and soot through the house. Dispose of the soiled tarps.
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Step 7
Use the shop vac to clean the interior of the firebox. Clean the shop vac tools and attachments to remove soot.
