Don’t Neglect Furnace Flue Cleaning

Do you remember the last time your furnace flue was cleaned? If you don’t, it’s probably time to have it properly cleaned and inspected.

The Chimney Guys of Pataskala, OH, cleans furnace flue vents, including those not connected to masonry chimneys. We clean venting systems safely and completely and inspect for safety and operational issues.

Misconceptions

Just because a furnace is relatively new doesn’t mean its venting system doesn’t need to be cleaned. In fact, if you have a new furnace, flue cleaning should be high on your list of maintenance projects until you get an idea of how much of a buildup (see below) is happening and how fast. Then you can schedule periodic cleanings to keep the buildups from getting out of hand.

Does your furnace company clean and inspect the flue during its regular furnace service? Many homeowners think they do when, in fact, they may not. This is something you need to find out.

Why furnace flue vent cleaning is important

During operation, a furnace generates particulate matter, most commonly small particles of soot. Over time – and without you being aware of it – these soot particles can attach to the surfaces of your furnace flue and start building up.

As with chimney flues, furnace flues are specifically sized to vent the furnaces to which they’re connected. When debris narrows the flue, the diameter changes and can no longer efficiently draft the appliance.

And all this happens without you knowing about it, until some potentially serious problems start. Here are a few of them.

The furnace works harder

A narrowed flue can make the furnace have to work harder to expel exhaust gases. A harder-working furnace means more cost for you to operate it. It can also mean parts of the furnace’s mechanical system failing before they should.

Warranty issues

The furnace manufacturer may require that “normal” cleaning, maintenance and inspections be performed to keep the appliance’s warranty valid. If so, you’ll need to show proof that these services were performed when making a damage claim.

Carbon monoxide leaks

The worst scenario of a furnace with an obstructed flue is dangerous combustion gases escaping the system.

Under normal operating conditions, natural gas and wood fires release carbon monoxide, which is known to be potentially fatal when inhaled in sufficient amounts by people and animals.

When a furnace flue is obstructed or there are problems with the ignition system and burners, excess carbon monoxide will be produced.

According to the Cleveland Clinic, more than 400 people in the United States die each year from carbon monoxide poisoning, and around 100,000 visit emergency rooms because of it. Symptoms can include:

• Mild headache
• Shortness of breath
• Nausea
• Chest pains
• Mental confusion
• Fainting

Is it time to have your furnace flue cleaned?

The Chimney Guys serves the greater Columbus, OH, region with licensed furnace flue cleaning by experienced drafting technicians. If it’s been a while since your furnace flue was cleaned or inspected, give us a call to arrange an appointment. You can also reach out through our handy contact form.