There is no doubt that regular cleanings and inspections are an integral part of maintaining your chimney’s health. But did you know your chimney sweep can inspect and service your utility flue, as well? This is a piece of the home that many forget about or dismiss. Out of sight, out mind. But forgoing regular maintenance can expose a lot of dangerous risks! Learn more below.
What Is a Utility Flue?
If you’re wondering just what a utility flue is, then you are not alone! Your utility flue helps your gas water heater, furnace, and/or boiler vent out harmful toxins and fumes. Your regular chimney liner can’t handle the acidic nature of these gases, which is why a separate venting system is needed. Unfortunately, many homeowners do not even realize it’s there!
Like your chimney and fireplace, your utility flue needs annual maintenance. Otherwise, you may find yourself facing countless issues!
Eliminating Blockages
Your utility flue can become easily blocked over time. Leaves, twigs, animal nests, and more create a lot of build-ups, meaning the gases produced cannot properly escape. With nowhere else to go, these fumes back up into your home, leaving your family vulnerable to carbon monoxide poisoning.
Carbon monoxide has a reputation for being extremely detrimental to one’s health. It has landed many in the hospital and can even be fatal if not addressed right away. Unfortunately, this is one odor that is nearly impossible to detect! It has no color, no odor, and no taste, so there are no obvious clues that warn of its presence.
This is why servicing your gas appliances and your utility flue is so vital! An expert will note any needed repairs right away and will ensure that proper ventilation can take place.
Also, purchasing carbon monoxide detectors is an important step for every homeowner to take. These are surefire ways to detect this deadly gas before anyone is seriously affected. Purchase some today, then have your sweep install them throughout your home. Be sure to check the batteries and test them out on a regular basis, so you know everything is running fine.
Improper Sizing
Another common issue homeowners face is an improperly sized flue. Newer models of furnaces require smaller flues to accommodate them. Yet, many times when a new furnace is installed, the utility flue is not updated with it. The furnace contractors themselves rarely do this job, so calling in a certified sweep is necessary for getting the job done right.
Although it may not seem like a big deal, an oversized flue can cause a lot of damage over time! The gases get to your mortar joints, flue tiles, and brickwork, and they wear them down considerably. This calls for expensive repairs down the line and leaves your chimney more vulnerable to a collapse or settlement.
Call On Our Certified Techs
The chimney technicians at SirVent Chimney and Venting Service are CSIA trained and certified, leaving us more than qualified to handle any and all of your chimney-related needs. Give us a call today!