Professional Dutch Neck Chimney Sweeping

COMMON QUESTIONS

chimney sweeping FAQS

Should I close my damper when the fireplace is not in use?

Yes – always close the damper when the fireplace is not in active use. An open damper acts like an open window, allowing conditioned air to escape and cold drafts to enter, which can significantly increase heating costs. A closed damper also prevents animals, insects, and debris from entering the flue, though a properly installed chimney cap provides the first line of defense and allows the damper to serve as a secondary barrier.

Should I have the chimney inspected after buying a home?

A chimney inspection after closing is a smart first step if the sale did not include a documented Level 2 inspection, or if you plan to use a fireplace or stove that sat unused. The visit follows NFPA 211 practice: inspect thoroughly, then sweep as needed. Dutch Neck buyers can book that appointment with Mercer County Chimney Services by calling (609) 802-5288 or using the form on this page. Do not start a fire until the system has been checked.

How do I book a chimney sweeping with Mercer County Chimney Services?

You can request an appointment by calling (609) 802-5288 or by submitting the form on this page. Let us know the town, the type of appliance (wood fireplace, wood stove, or gas), and whether you need a routine visit or a real-estate inspection. A team member will follow up to schedule the sweeping and, when appropriate, the inspection. There is no need to decide in advance whether a sweep will be required; NFPA 211 treats cleaning as needed once the system is inspected.

What’s the first step if my chimney has not been serviced in several years?

Start with a professional inspection before you light a fire. After a long gap, NFPA 211’s annual inspection is overdue, and a Level 2 inspection with a flue camera may be the better first step if no recent records exist. The technician can then sweep out creosote, soot, or debris and tell you if anything else needs attention. Do not use sweeping logs or a DIY brush as a substitute for that visit. Book by phone or the form on this page and mention how long it has been.

Will a chimney sweeping stop my fireplace from smoking into the room? 

It might, if the smoke is caused by a blocked or heavily coated flue. A sweeping can restore a clear path for exhaust when creosote, debris, or a nest is the problem. Smoking can also come from a closed damper, a poor-drafting design, an undersized flue, or competing air pressure in the house, which cleaning alone will not fix. The right first step is an inspection and, if needed, a sweeping. The technician can then explain whether the issue is likely resolved or needs further attention.

What does a chimney sweep actually do during a visit?

Protect your home by laying drop cloths and sealing the fireplace opening Use specialized brushes and rods to loosen and dislodge creosote and soot Vacuum debris from the firebox, smoke chamber, and flue Inspect accessible components for damage, deterioration, or blockages Many sweeps also perform a visual inspection as part of the service, though a full Level 2 inspection with camera equipment is a separate and more thorough process.