Chestnuts roasting on an open fire…
Are you ready for the holidays? Here at NNINS, we look forward to spending time in meaningful ways by visiting with family and friends. There's nothing as joyful and happy as a decorated home! But with decades of home insurance experience, we know your house needs a little more than twinkling lights and balsam wreaths as you come in from the chill to celebrate. Your fireplace, or wood stove, should be safe and reliable for the holiday festivities, and winter.
Cooking equipment may be the leading cause of home fire injuries and deaths but is followed closely by home heating equipment. But did you know chimney fires account for 75% of home heating fires?
The best way to prevent a home fire from a chimney or wood stove is to have an annual inspection and cleaning performed by a certified chimney sweep. It's not as fun as ready your home decorated to welcome friends and family but it's really important.
We know what you’re thinking.
What a pain in the "ash"! Do I really need to have my fireplace or wood stove inspected and cleaned?
Yes!
1. It’s a really messy job!
2. This deeper level cleaning removes flammable creosote build-up that you can’t reach.
3. They have expert knowledge and equipment.
4. They go in from the roof down- messy and dangerous!
5. They can make sure the top of your chimney is moisture, critter, and debris-free with an intact spark arrestor cap.
The average cost of professional chimney cleaning and inspection is between $80-$150. Don’t skimp here. It’s peace of mind and basic maintenance. Even gas fireplaces need to be cleaned and inspected. Here's an example of the increased fire risks that come with these home heating heroes.
The bright side? Once you’ve had things professionally inspected and cleaned, you’re ready for the holidays. It’s that simple. We’ll cover season-long maintenance later, as well as how to keep your home's winter air comfortable for the whole family.
By the way, if you’ve never roasted Virginia chestnuts, it may be time to start a new family tradition! We recommend an easy-peasy and delicious oven recipe. And how about that great holiday song to help set the mood? Sing it, Nat!