As the weather cools down and the smell of autumn fills the air, many homeowners begin to think about cozy nights by the fire. But before you light that first log, there’s one essential task that should be at the top of your fall checklist: chimney cleaning.
At Five Sons Chimney, we help homeowners across the region prepare their fireplaces and chimney systems for the heating season. And if you're looking to avoid surprises and enjoy your fireplace safely this fall and winter, chimney cleaning should be your first step.
In this post, we’ll cover why fall is the ideal time for chimney maintenance, what can happen if you skip it, and what to expect from a professional chimney cleaning service.
Why Chimney Cleaning is Essential Before Fireplace Season.
When a fireplace or wood-burning stove is used, it releases smoke, ash, tar-like particles (creosote), and other byproducts up the flue. Over time, these accumulate on the inner walls of your chimney.
Here's why that’s a problem if left untreated:
Creosote Buildup = Fire Hazard.
Creosote is highly flammable. It can ignite with the smallest spark and cause a chimney fire — which can spread to your attic or walls within minutes. Even light usage over the summer can result in enough buildup to create danger.
Restricted Airflow.
A chimney blocked by soot, debris, or even animal nests can limit proper airflow. This affects your fireplace’s performance, causes smoke to back up, and leads to a poorly burning fire.
Carbon Monoxide Risks.
Carbon monoxide is a silent killer — colorless, odorless, and deadly. If your chimney isn’t venting properly due to blockages, this toxic gas can seep into your home instead of exiting safely.
Prevent Expensive Repairs.
When chimneys go uncleaned, small issues (like moisture damage, rusted dampers, or loose bricks) can go unnoticed. These minor problems can quickly evolve into major structural repairs if left unchecked.
Why Fall is the Best Time for Chimney Cleaning.
Most homeowners wait until the first chilly night to think about their fireplace. By then, chimney service companies are already booked solid.
Here’s why fall is the best time to schedule your chimney cleaning:
Avoid the Winter Rush.
Fall is our busiest season at Five Sons Chimney. Booking early means you beat the rush and avoid delays. You’ll also have plenty of time to address any needed repairs before peak burning season.
Get Ahead of Potential Problems.
If your chimney has damage, obstructions, or moisture issues, it’s better to find out now — not when the snow is falling, and temperatures drop. Fall cleanings give you a full assessment of your system so you can make informed decisions.
Peace of Mind for the Holidays.
Planning on hosting holiday gatherings or cozy family nights? A professionally cleaned and inspected chimney ensures your fireplace will be safe, clean, and ready for entertaining.
How Often Should Chimneys Be Cleaned?
The general recommendation from the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) is:
Once per year for most fireplaces and chimneys
More often if you burn wood frequently (3+ times a week during winter)
After every cord of wood burned
Before each heating season, even if usage was low — animals or moisture could still cause issues
Five Sons Chimney offers annual maintenance plans to make scheduling easy and automatic — so you never have to remember on your own.
What’s Involved in a Professional Chimney Cleaning?
If you've never had a chimney cleaning done professionally, here’s what our service includes:
1. Initial Inspection.
We begin with a Level 1 visual inspection to check for visible issues, buildup, or signs of wear. If we suspect deeper problems, we may recommend a more in-depth (Level 2) inspection.
2. Protecting Your Home.
We use drop cloths, HEPA vacuums, and other protective gear to keep your home clean and dust-free during the process.
3. Chimney Cleaning.
Using industry-grade brushes and rods, we clean the flue, smoke chamber, damper, and firebox. We also remove any animal nests, leaves, and creosote buildup.
4. Final Assessment.
After cleaning, we re-inspect your chimney and provide a detailed report. If we notice anything concerning — like cracked flue tiles, leaks, or masonry issues — we’ll offer solutions before things get worse.
What Makes Five Sons Chimney Different?
We’re not a giant, impersonal chain. At Five Sons Chimney, we’re a proud family-owned business built on trust, transparency, and hard work. Homeowners in our community call us year after year because they know we deliver safe, thorough, and reliable service.
Here's what sets us apart:
Certified Technicians: CSIA-certified chimney sweeps with years of experience
Respect for Your Home: Clean tools, drop cloths, and no mess left behind
Detailed Inspection Reports: Including before-and-after photos
Clear Communication: Honest recommendations, no upselling
5-Star Customer Service: Just check our reviews!