Hello, and welcome to the Potomac Services blog! As a leading chimney cleaning company in the D.C. metro area, we are committed to educating our customers about caring for their chimneys so they can make informed decisions when they need to hire chimney sweeps. Today, we debunk three common chimney cleaning myths that might be costing you money.

Myth 1: Start a Chimney Fire to Clean the Chimney
This is a dangerous myth. According to the Chimney Safety Institute of America, chimney fires can be explosive. Deliberately starting a chimney fire can cause flames to shoot out of your chimney. This can damage your property and your chimney. The heat from the hire can cause a metal flue to warp and masonry to crack. The hot creosote can also damage your roof.
Myth 2: Burn Orange Peels to Clean the Chimney
Orange oil can cut through dirt and grease,, which is why it’s an ingredient in all sorts of household cleaners. Unfortunately, however, burning orange peels will not clean your chimney. It will just result in orange-scented smoke that does nothing. If you want the creosote in your chimney removed, then you need to contact a company that provides professional chimney cleaning services. At Potomac Services, we have the training, experience and the correct tools for this job.
Myth 3: If You Only Burn Seasoned Wood, You Won’t Need Chimney Cleaning
Seasoned wood produces less smoke because it contains less moisture. However, it doesn’t burn cleanly because nothing burns cleanly. This type of wood still creates smoke, and smoke leads to creosote buildup in your chimney. You still need to have your chimney cleaned regularly even if you burn seasoned wood.
Our professional chimney inspection and cleaning services will keep your chimney in good condition all year round. At Potomac Services, we have over 15 years of experience, and our team of trained, certified technicians uses cutting edge tools and follows the strict standards of the Chimney Safety Institute of America. Call us at (703) 444-5155 to learn more about our services and products or to ask for an inspection.