It may not seem that interesting, but your chimney is worth a look. Protect your family from deadly carbon monoxide and do a five-minute chimney check.
Monthly five-minute chimney check
Have your heating appliances serviced and your chimney inspected by a licensed gas contractor ever fall. We also recommend monthly chimney checks, especially during cold snaps.
Do this five-minute check once a month:
- Go outside and look up at your chimney. Make sure the chimney is clear of any ice or snow that may be blocking it.
- From inside your home, check the flue or metal liner of your chimney. Holding a mirror (and a flashlight) inside the access panel will give you a clear view. You're looking for a circle of light, which indicates that there is not build-up of debris or damage to the inside of your chimney.
- If your chimney is blocked by snow or ice, or if you cannot see daylight from the inside, contact a licensed gas contractor immediately. You can find one by looking under Heating Contractors in the phone book.
- Ask a licenced gas contractor to show you how to give your chimney a thorough check the first time you do this, especially since not all chimneys are alike.
Chimney maintenance tips
- Regularly check the outside of your chimney or side-wall vent to ensure there is no snow/ice buildup.
- Ensure your chimney is clear from the inside by checking the flue.
- Check plastic venting systems regularly for cracked pipes, loose fittings or any signs of dripping and condensation.
- Inspect Class A metal chimneys frequently; they are prone to having the inner flue collapse, blocking or severely restricting the exhaust gas flow.
- Never tamper with or try to bypass the appliance safety switch. These devices are designed to protect you by shutting down the furnace when a malfunction occurs.
- Always ensure your side-wall vented appliances are clear of snow and hoar frost.
The danger of carbon monoxide
Inadequately maintained gas equipment can lead to malfunctions that release carbon monoxide. This odourless, colourless, tasteless gas can be extremely dangerous.
For more information on how to protect your family from carbon monoxide poisoning, visit our carbon monoxide safety section.
