In general, it is advisable to have your chimney swept twice a year. In this case, you can perform this operation yourself. Indeed, there is a simple and eco-responsible way to achieve this, without having to climb on the roof.
Grandmother’s tricks save our lives and it is the case to say it when we discover a natural way to sweep our chimney without spending a penny. Here is how to proceed with the simple help of a natural ingredient.
What is chimney sweeping used for?
Fireplace. Source: spm
Cleaning your chimney is necessary, it gets rid of ashes as well as soot. This is an essential action to prevent fires as well as possible carbon monoxide poisoning. Sweeping is also imposed by the municipal authorities twice a year for owners of chimneys, wood stoves and inserts, and once a year for those who have boilers. According to the law, sweeping must be carried out by a qualified professional, who once the operation has been carried out, issues the owner a sweeping certificate. The latter must be kept to prevail with your insurer in the event of fire.
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Chimney sweeping is therefore a question of prevention above all. Be aware that a clogged chimney releases potentially deadly toxic gases and fumes. When sweeping is carried out incorrectly, the residues resulting from the combustion of the heating materials present in the evacuation duct, aggravate the risks of fire and intoxication.
However, there is a much older traditional method that can extend the life of your equipment. This technique consists of use dried potato peels to sweep the chimney.
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Naturally sweep a chimney with potato peelings
To achieve a sweeping that is both natural and economical, without having to climb on the roof, simply throw the potato peels into the fire of your chimney. A surprisingly effective tip for cleaning the duct. The zinc in the potatoes will act on the soot and prevent it from getting stuck in the chimney. Here’s how:
- Dry the potato skins away from direct sunlight, away from any heat source and away from pets that might be tempted to devour them.
- Leave them in the open air for 24 to 48 hours. They must be very dry to burn properly.
- You can then place the potato peels in the burning fire of your fireplace.
Potato peels. Source: spm
Of course, this method does not exclude the fact that it is important to seek the services of a professional chimney sweep. However, after having cleaned your chimney in this way, you will find that it will be much cleaner and that combustion will take place more efficiently.
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Via SPM
