Many homeowners are looking for easier and less expensive ways to keep their chimneys maintained – and many people are turning to the modern convenience of chimney sweeping logs. But the question remains – do they actually work?
The answer is both yes and no. They do work…but maybe not in the way you’re thinking. And they definitely shouldn’t replace a chimney sweeping.
After burning a chimney sweeping log (or creosote sweeping log), flames will increase in temperature and chemically help to reduce buildup. However, it can’t remove all creosote deposits. In order to get a thorough and proper sweeping, a professional chimney sweep should be called at least once a year.
How Do Creosote/Chimney Sweeping Logs Work?
Chimney sweeping logs contain ingredients that help to break up the creosote, soot, and small particles that can build up in your chimney over time, helping to prevent hazardous conditions or a potential chimney fire.
The science behind these logs is that they use sodium nitrate, potassium nitrate, and wood powder as propellant agents to heat the fuel until it burns off all oxygen contained in the casing of the log – and thus creates high-temperature smoke. This high-temperature smoke is capable of breaking apart and melting off the buildup commonly found in chimneys.
While these logs aren’t replacements for having your chimney properly serviced at least once a year by professionals, they can help reduce certain risks when used properly. That said, unless you are a super burner of wood products in a fireplace or wood-burning stove or insert, one sweeping and inspection per year by a Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) certified sweep should get the job done without the burning of cleaning logs.
Can a Chimney Sweeping Log Take the Place of a Chimney Sweeping?
While chimney sweeping logs are not consider harmful to a chimney and fireplace system, using them does not replace a professional annual chimney sweeping and inspection.
During an inspection, a qualified technician will do a physical review for efficiency and safety concerns as part of their evaluation. Since there are numerous components within a venting system, from stainless steel and clay tile liners to dampers and chimney caps, having someone look at it comprehensively on an annual basis is essential in maintaining its correct operational conditions.
All that said, the inspection cannot be done without a proper sweeping and, while the chimney sweeping logs do get some things out of the system, we find there are still things that have to be completed by a certified technician to get things done right.
What Are the Limitations of Chimney or Creosote Sweeping Logs?
Chimney sweeping logs come with a few limitations that need to be taken into account.
- They do not adequately address the problem of actually removing creosote.
- While they do allow some debris and soot to be removed relatively easily, they won’t be able to clear out any large items, such as bird nests or sticks.
- Chimney sweeping logs require proper ventilation in order to achieve maximum effectiveness, so if your chimney is already clogged or dirty, they may not do a thorough job.
In conclusion, these logs might be helpful in keeping your chimney easier to sweep (clean), but their limitations should also be taken into account. And no – they can’t replace a service from a certified technician.
Will Chimney Sweeping Logs Damage My Chimney?
It’s understandable to be cautious when using any new product that is designed to improve the health of your chimney. When it comes to chimney sweeping logs, though, no need to worry. When used in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and safety protocols, chimney sweeping logs are perfectly safe to use.
Schedule With Us Today
If you are ready to have your chimney system serviced by a CSIA-certified technician for the year, call Winston’s Chimney Services at 703-379-5006 or book online with us today.
