Many homeowners are unaware that metal chimney flues require regular cleaning and maintenance. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recommends that metal chimneys be inspected and cleaned yearly.
Without regular cleaning, metal chimneys can become clogged with soot and debris, leading to a dangerous chimney fire. Besides being a fire hazard, dirty chimneys can cause health problems for you and your family.
During the inspection, the chimney professional will check for any signs of damage or corrosion and clean the flue. Not only will this help to keep your chimney in good working order, but it will also lengthen its lifespan.
This guide will help you understand why metal chimneys need to be cleaned and how often they require cleaning.
What does a stainless steel chimney liner do?
A stainless steel chimney liner is a metal tube that runs the length of your chimney. The liner protects the masonry from heat and corrosion, making it an important part of your chimney’s structure.
If your chimney doesn’t have a liner, it’s important to have one installed. A liner will protect your chimney, but it will also make it more efficient.
Unlike other types of liners, a metal chimney liner is durable and can last a lifetime. However, it frequently requires regular cleaning to prevent soot and debris from building up.
Doing so will also help avoid corrosion and extend the lifespan of your stainless steel chimney liner.
5 Signs that your metal chimney liner needs cleaning
If you’re not sure whether your metal chimney liner needs to be cleaned, there are a few signs to look for.
1. Creosote buildup
Creosote is a by-product of burning wood and can build up on the walls of your chimney. If you see a black or brown substance on the walls of your chimney, it’s likely creosote.
When you notice a 1/8″ layer of creosote on the chimney walls, it’s time to have your chimney cleaned. That may not seem like much, but a 1/8″ layer of creosote is a fire hazard.
2. Unpleasant smells
Another sign that your metal chimney liner needs to be cleaned is if you start to notice unpleasant smells coming from the chimney. These smells come from soot buildup and creosote on the chimney walls.
While they may be unpleasant, these smells can also be dangerous. If you notice any strange smells coming from your chimney, it’s essential to have it inspected and cleaned as soon as possible.
3. Difficult to start a fire and keep it burning
Starting a fire should be easy when your chimney flue is working perfectly. If you find it increasingly difficult to get a fire going in your wood stove or fireplace, it could signify that your chimney flue needs cleaning.
This can happen when the flue is clogged with soot, which prevents the hot air from rising and drawing fresh air into the fire.
4. Smoky fireplace
Another sign that your chimney needs to be cleaned is if you notice smoke coming into the room from the fireplace. If this happens, the smoke isn’t adequately ventilated and is backing up into the room.
This is not only a fire hazard, but it can also be dangerous for your health. Smoke from a fireplace can consist of carbon monoxide and other poisonous gases.
If you notice smoke coming into the room from the fireplace, it’s crucial to have the chimney inspected and cleaned as soon as possible.
5. Oily marks on your fireplace walls
Lastly, oily marks on your fireplace walls signify that your metal chimney liner needs to be cleaned. These marks are caused by soot and creosote buildup on the chimney walls.
While they may not seem like a big deal, these oily marks can be a fire hazard. If you see any oily marks on your fireplace walls, it’s essential to have your chimney inspected and cleaned.
What happens if you don’t clean your stainless steel chimney flue?
Serious damage and repair can result from not keeping your stainless steel chimney liner clean. In some cases, the entire chimney may need to be rebuilt.
That’s not all. The following problems can also occur:
Chimney fires due to creosote and soot buildup
Fire risk is one of the most serious dangers of not cleaning your stainless steel chimney liner. When creosote buildup becomes too thick, it can ignite and cause a dangerous chimney fire.
Chimney fires can be very destructive, causing extensive damage to your home. In some cases, they can even be deadly. Besides being a fire hazard, creosote buildup also reduces the efficiency of your chimney liner, making it more difficult for smoke and fumes to escape.
Carbon monoxide poisoning
Another danger of not cleaning your stainless steel chimney is the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. Carbon monoxide is a poisonous gas that can be deadly if inhaled.
When there’s a buildup of soot and creosote in the chimney, it can cause carbon monoxide to back up into the home. This is especially dangerous if there are people in the home who are asleep or have respiratory problems.
Damage to the chimney
Lastly, not cleaning your stainless steel chimney can damage the chimney itself. Over time, the creosote and soot buildup can cause the metal to corrode and deteriorate.
This can eventually lead to cracks and holes in the chimney, which can be expensive to repair.
How often does a stainless steel flue liner need to be cleaned?
According to the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA), stainless steel chimney liners should be inspected and cleaned yearly.
The CSIA advises that wood-burning stoves should be cleaned more often in homes that burn wood frequently. They advise cleaning it every 50-60 fires or every 3-5 months, depending on how often the fire is fed.
The best way to keep your stainless steel chimney liner clean is for a certified chimney sweep to inspect and clean it regularly. This will ensure that the chimney is safe and in good working condition.
How much does it cost to clean a metal chimney liner?
The cost of cleaning a metal chimney liner varies depending on the size and type of chimney and the company you hire.
Most companies charge between $150 and $300 to clean a metal chimney liner. Some companies may charge more or less than this, so it’s important to get quotes from several companies before hiring one.
The following table can elaborate more on the subject of cost.
| Metal chimney liner cleaning level | Average cost |
| National average cost | About $400 |
| The average cleaning range | Between $150 – $300 |
| Low-end cleaning services | About $90 |
| High-end chimney sweep service | From $400 and above |
Final Thoughts
Metal chimney flues need to be inspected and cleaned at least yearly by a certified chimney sweep.
Failing to do so can lead to serious problems, such as chimney fires, carbon monoxide poisoning, and damage to the chimney itself.
It’s also vital to know chimney flue cleaning is not a light task and should only be attempted by experienced people. If you’re not comfortable doing it yourself, hire a professional.
Certified chimney sweeps will have the knowledge and experience to clean your chimney safely and effectively. They will also be able to spot any potential problems with your chimney and make repairs as needed.
