- Scrub the surround with a piece of fine steel wool to remove any rust and other debris.
- Wipe the fireplace surround with a dry cloth to make sure nothing is left on the surface.
- Use the included brush to cover the surround with a new layer of black grate polish.
Also to know is, do metal chimneys need cleaning?
Cleaning a metal chimney from a fireplace or woodstove is a necessity to ensure it is in good working order as well as to avoid fires from the build-up of creosote or ash. The task is not for anyone in poor health or physical shape, as it is labor-intensive and requires getting on a ladder.
Beside above, how do you clean fireplace grates? Sweep dust and ashes off the andirons or grate, then take them outside to clean. To remove soot from the grate/andirons, apply a few teaspoons of dish detergent to a water-dampened scrubbing brush, wet the grate/andiron with water, scrub until sudsy, and rinse well.
Furthermore, how often should a metal chimney be cleaned?
This depends a lot on how much you use your fireplace or stove. The National Fire Protection Association says, “Chimneys, fireplaces, and vents shall be inspected at least once a year for soundness, freedom from deposits, and correct clearances.
How can I tell if my chimney needs cleaning?
The following signs indicate a chimney in need of a cleaning:
- Burned wood odors coming from the fireplace when it's not being used.
- Fires that seem to burn poorly or that dump a bunch of smoke into the room.
- A black damper. Since it sits right above the firebox, the damper is often the easiest thing to see and reach.
Related Question Answers
Can I clean my own chimney?
In many cases, you can clean the chimney yourself and save a few hundred dollars. Removing ordinary chimney soot is pretty simple. But if you have heavy creosote buildup, you'll have to call in a pro. Otherwise, hire a certified chimney sweep.
How long does chimney sweep take?
A typical chimney sweep and inspection can take 45 minutes to an hour.
Do stainless steel chimneys need cleaning?
If your chimney gets a lot of use, you will need to clean it out regularly, even if you have a stainless steel chimney liner. If a chimney is not cleaned, it will accumulate soot, dirt and dust, which will cause many problems. Additionally, chimneys may clog from accumulated debris.
What happens if you don't clean your chimney?
If you don't clean your chimney properly it can cause a hazardous smoke and this smoke can fill inside you house and this can cause you several problems like severe suffocation. Because of usage of the chimney the soot and rust the chimney cap can also face corrosion.
Are metal chimneys safe?
Advantages: If properly installed and maintained, metal chimney liners are extremely safe and durable. Stainless steel is suitable for wood-burning, gas, or oil appliances, while the aluminum is an inexpensive alternative for certain medium efficiency gas applications only.
How often should you burn a creosote log?
Hirsch says homeowners should ideally burn one creosote log for every 60 fires in order to reduce creosote buildup in the chimney flu.
How often should you clean the ashes from your fireplace?
Wait at least 12-24 hours after your last use before you begin the full cleaning. DO keep up with weekly cleanings by clearing out the grate of ashes and debris, and sweep around the hearth regularly.
How quickly does creosote build up?
It typically takes between six months and one year for cut wood to get to a low moisture content. Do not burn artificial packaged logs in your fireplace or your woodstove, since they leave a large amount of creosote deposits. Burn hot fires that have plenty of air.
Do chimney cleaning logs really work?
Getting back to the question of “do those chimney sweeping logs really work?” the first part of the answer is yes, they do work – to some extent. These types of logs contain a chemical catalyst with can reduce the early stages of creosote buildup up to 60% with repeated use.
How much does a chimney cleaning cost?
On an average, chimney cleaning costs between $100 and $300.
Do you need to clean chimney with oil heat?
Why You Need to Clean Your Oil-Fired Furnace Chimney. If you have an oil-fired furnace, not only should you have your furnace inspected every year, you also need to have the chimney inspected and cleaned annually, because oil's by-products of combustion can be very volatile and corrosive.
How do you get rid of creosote build up?
Use the ACS Powder for the first 2 weeks to break down the really heavy duty creosote. Then use the regular ACS liquid spray every time you have a fire. Give it 5-6 sprays each fire to reduce creosote buildup and keep your chimney creosote-free.
What does creosote look like?
Creosote is a black or brown residue that can be crusty and flaky…tar-like, drippy and sticky…or shiny and hardened. All forms are highly combustible.
How do you test for creosote build up?
How to Tell You Have Creosote
- Gather your supplies. You should wear a face mask and goggles, and grab a flashlight and your fireplace poker.
- Check that it's safe. Make sure there is a downdraft first.
- Use your fireplace poker. Scratch the smoke chamber above your damper to see if there is any creosote.
- Shine the light.
How much does a fireplace inspection cost?
According to Andy Klotz of Angie's List, a standard chimney inspection costs about $100 to $250, depending on roof accessibility and the type of chimney inspected. Some chimney sweeps waive inspection fees if cleaning or repair work is done.
Can you have a fire before chimney sweep?
Q: Can I have a fire the night before a chimney sweep arrives? A: You can have a fire in any open fireplace or stove but please remove all hot ash and allow it to cool before we get there.
Can you use wd40 on cast iron?
WD40 will not hurt cast iron, but will not do much to help it, either. WD40 is mostly kerosene or a very similar aromatic hydrocarbon. WD stands for “water displacing.” That is what WD40 was designed for, not for lubrication, not for corrosion protection.
Can you vacuum a fireplace?
Your home vacuum is not constructed to take the heat and using it to clean the woodstove or fireplace can pose a fire risk. A regular vacuum is not safe to use for ash removal; an ash vacuum has a metal construction and is made to handle it.
What is black grate polish?
clean and polish your stove with stovax black grate polish. Stovax black grate polish will have your stove and grates looking great. this is a wax-based graphite polish, giving a brilliant silver-black finish to cast iron stoves and fireplaces.