A complete chimney sweeping includes the chimney flue and smoke chamber. You will be able to visibly see that the flue is cleaner. Ask for a report after the sweeping is done.

Liners for oil-fired and gas appliances do not require insulation to meet the manufacturers’ installation and warranty reqs. Due to the lower flue gas temperatures and lesser heat transfer they are less likely to get surrounding combustible material on fire. If combustible materials are in close contact with the chimney, there are provisions that allow the liner to be installed in what is called as a zero/zero install. It is more logical to insulate every liner serving a wood burning appliance. Even oil-fired and gas appliances that are vented into an outside chimney will benefit from liner insulation.

It is safe to burn dry, seasoned firewood in your fireplace. Dry firewood typically has a moisture content of less than 20% and has been properly stored for at least six months to a year. Hardwoods like oak, maple, birch, and ash are excellent choices as they burn longer and produce more heat. Softwoods like pine and fir can also be burned, but they tend to burn faster and produce less heat. It is important to avoid burning treated wood, painted wood, or any materials that may release toxic fumes when burned. Additionally, never burn trash, cardboard, or paper products in your fireplace as they can cause excessive smoke and potentially start a chimney fire.

The smell is because of the creosote deposits in your chimney, a natural by-product of wood burning. The smell is sometimes worse in when it gets hot, when the humidity levels are higher and the a/c is turned on. A good sweeping will help but usually won’t solve the problem completely.