A chimney is a structure that ventilates hot smoke and gases from ovens, furnaces, fireplaces, or boilers. If you have a chimney, chances are good that you already know it requires some kind of chimney cleaning in Atlanta, but that might be the extent of your knowledge. How exactly does a chimney work and what kind of maintenance does it require? How a Chimney Works When fuel is combusted in an oven, fireplace, boiler, or furnace, hot gases are created, called flue gases. These gases are much hotter than the ambient air outside and are, thus, less dense than the ambient air. The denser outside air is under more pressure than the hot flue gases. This pressure differential is the driving force behind a chimney: the high pressure air outside pulls the low pressure air through the chimney. This movement of air through the chimney is called draft. What Can Go Wrong The most common chimney problems are either blockages or structural issues. - Blockages - For a chimney to work properly, air needs to be able to move through it freely. When the flue gases cool before exiting the chimney, creosote is created. Layers of creosote can build up on the inside of the chimney, slowing down the draft and creating a fire hazard. Chimneys can also be blocked by outside debris, such as leaves, sticks, and even bird's nests.
- Structural Issues - The structure of a chimney is critical to its ability to function. Cracks in the flue from heat and pressure are dangerous and pose a significant fire hazard to your home. Cracks in the bricks or mortar outside a chimney can allow water into the chimney structure and cause the chimney to leak. Missing or broken chimney caps and crowns can also allow moisture in, as well as other types of debris.
Chimney problems are serious and should be avoided at all costs. Regular chimney cleaning in Atlanta is your best defense against a chimney disaster. Chimney cleaners clear blockages and inspect for structural damage to keep your chimney safe and operating at its best. Schedule your cleaning today!
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