As you probably know, your fireplace and chimney should be thoroughly cleaned and inspected at least once per year to prevent chimney fires and ensure safe operability.   But when is the best time to clean and inspect your Chimney? 

You may find it surprising, but the best time is…NOW!  The summer is the best time to have your chimney cleaned and inspected before the cold months come around.

Most homeowners wait until the fall to clean and inspect their chimney. Once the weather heats up, their chimney is the last appliance on their minds.  As a result, demand for chimney cleaning services is concentrated from late September through December. 

It is difficult for the established and reputable chimney cleaning companies to keep up with this surge in demand and service every customer during this period.  If you wait until September or later, you might find a one to two-month wait just to have your chimney cleaned and inspected.  And if there are any issues with your Chimney, you could face an additional one-to-two-month delay to get the necessary repairs done. The fire-burning season could be halfway over or worse before your fireplace is operable.   

The Chimney cleaning industry tries to keep up with demand during the fall, but it is impossible to add additional workers safely. Reputable chimney contractors will ensure all chimney sweeps are experienced and certified before sending them out on their own. A chimney sweep is not a seasonal position.  A Chimney Sweep Apprentice works 6 – 12 months under a CSIA certified chimney technician to learn the craft and gain the certifications necessary to properly clean and inspect your chimney.  This training period is vital to ensure your Chimney is safe for use for you and your family. 

Beat the Rush

The summer is the slowest time of year for chimney cleaners. With fireplace season months away, chimney cleaning companies have the capacity to quickly clean, inspect, and repair your fireplace and chimney. The homeowners that do schedule cleaning and inspections during this time can get serviced within a week from scheduling.  If there are any issues with the Chimney, there is no wait time for repairs.

The spring is also another great time to clean your chimney. During the humid summer months, the atmospheric pressure can push the smokey smell down through your chimney and into your house.  By cleaning your chimney after your last use for the season, you can avoid any unwanted smells coming from your fireplace.