Closing off a Fireplace For Spring and Summer- What You Need To Know

Spring is here, and most families are done using their fireplaces until fall rolls around again. Now is the time to close off your fireplace and chimney for the season of warm nights, fresh air, and time spent outside. Rather than just no longer using your fireplace, there are a few steps to make sure it stays in tip-top shape during its off-season.

Close off a fireplace for the season with these 4 steps:

Clean the Fireplace
It’s time for spring-cleaning, so why not add cleaning the chimney and fireplace to the list? You can remove leftover ash from the firebox yourself and use a vacuum hose, so the soot doesn’t get on anything else in the room. A professional chimney sweep can access and clean the parts you cannot reach, ensuring your chimney and fireplace are in their best shape.
Get Your Chimney Inspected
In addition to chimney cleaning, it’s important to get an annual inspection for maintenance. Proper chimney maintenance relies on this inspection as it checks to make sure your chimney is not damaged. Most homeowners think they only need an inspection if they are burning wood—this isn’t true! Whether you burn wood, gas, coal, or another type of fuel, both the Chimney Safety Institute of America and the National Fire Protection Association recommend an inspection!

Inspections are good preventative measures as even small problems can cause dangers in your home.
Close the Damper
You should always close the damper after each use of the fireplace. So, this is imperative to do before the two seasons of little to no usage. If the damper is left open, warm air from outside can leak into your home and add to your electricity bill. For even more savings, you can install glass doors to keep warm air out. You don’t want hot air leaking your home during a hot St. Louis summer. If you had a gas fireplace, you don’t need to worry about the damper, as those always stay open.
Turn off the Pilot Light
For gas fireplaces, you want to make sure you turn the pilot light off to save energy.

Take the time this spring to close off your fireplace and chimney for the season. Call or contact us at Clean Sweep Chimney today to schedule any services you may need!

Steve S

I'm not sure why you would trust anyone else with something as important as keeping your chimney safe and clean. Victor Imgarten provided the best service. He was on time, communicated perfectly, was neat and kept everything clean and in an orderly matter. I have used his services in the past and have always been extremely impressed with pricing and communication and quality of service.

Marie K

I’m very thankful for Vic and Scott. They came out to quote a chimney repair job for me and my husband. When they arrived at our home, they saw me trying to replace a flat tire. They kindly offered to help me get the spare on. Plus, I got to prank my husband and say I changed it all on my own. Thanks again, Vic and Scott!

Destiny Houghton

Prompt and helpful service. We were very happy with how quickly they came out to adjust our chimney cap.

Pat Lee

Victor does a great job. He cleaned inside and outside thoroughly. He also makes and sells honey! He's been at our home twice and perfect work both times.

Allyson Burgess

Great work, great price. Thank you. See you next year.

Patricia Perry

Excellent service. Excellent value. Fireplace was put in excellent condition. Was left in a very clean condition. Victor is a highly professional operator.

Ken Homza

Great company. I talked to several companies before choosing Clean Sweep. Victor is among the most knowledgeable people in the industry and offered the best solution. The work was for the living room fireplace but he gave me guidance on the basement level as well and recommended a solution which he doesn't offer. Talk about integrity! Joyce in the office was great about keeping me informed as the crew navigated rain and cold weather days. The crew was neat, friendly and did a great job. I can tell the difference in quality looking at my chimney vs. work neighbors had done by others. I would hire them again without hesitation.

C N

They did a great job and were very knowledgeable

A Bernabe

They are the best in the business! I have been doing business with them for over 30 years! They are a company that does everything with excellence and integrity! I highly recommend them to you!