Instructions on Chimney Cleaning With a Furnace
Homeowners must properly maintain chimneys to keep them operating efficiently. They require regular cleaning to prevent chimney blockages and possible fires inside the chimney. Chimneys can get creosote buildup, which is a byproduct of burning wood. Creosote can catch fire as it heats, so it is important to keep it from building up in a chimney. With a little work, you can get your furnace chimney looking like new. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Spray bottle
- Soot remover
- Ladder
- Chimney brush
- Dust mask
- Goggles
- HEPA-filtered vacuum
Instructions
-
-
1
Remove wood and any other material from the furnace so you can more easily remove the debris that will fall from the chimney during the cleaning process. Close the furnace doors.
-
2
Use a spray bottle to apply a soot remover to the inside of the chimney in accordance with the cleaner's instructions. You'll only be able to apply it to the very bottom of the chimney, and the very top once you're on the roof, but it will help remove the buildup in those areas. In addition, it will spread to your brush as you clean and this helps remove deposits in the middle of the chimney.
-
-
3
Close the furnace and climb up to the roof. You may need a ladder to reach the roof safely. Use footwear with a lot of grip to help ensure you don't fall.
-
4
Insert a firm wire chimney brush down into the chimney and scrape it as much as you can against the chimney walls. Spray the brush ahead of time with the soot remover to help with deposit removal. The deposits will drop from the chimney down into the furnace, which is why the furnace doors should be closed. Wear a dust mask and goggles to prevent ash from entering your lungs and eyes.
-
5
Vacuum the ash and debris in the furnace with a HEPA-filtered vacuum. The filter keeps the debris from blowing back into the air.
-
1
