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HAMMER

Don’t Wait Until Fall to Get Chimney Cleaned

Q: I told my neighbor I was thinking of hiring a fireplace cleaner — a chimney sweep, I guess — this month, and he said I was crazy to schedule one at this time of year because they’ll charge me an arm and a leg. He said I should wait until fall when they’re busier. What do you think? — Janice C., Syracuse, N.Y.

A: I think you should go ahead and schedule the fireplace cleaning. Worrying about the possibility that the cleaning company will charge you more than usual is silly when you can get a written estimate before they start the work, and compare it to other services in town.

Plus, June is a slower season for chimney and fireplace cleaners, compared to fall when homeowners are in a hurry to get their fireplaces ready for the cold weather. The benefit to you is that you can have greater choice of the day and time you want them to come in and service the chimney. They also should be able to spend more time checking your fireplace, chimney and flue for potential dangers, rather than rushing off to the next service call.

Some chimney and fireplace service technicians offer discounts at this time of year. Check their website or call the company to ask about any specials they’re running.

Again, you have control over how much you’re willing to pay for chimney cleaning service. Ask for a written estimate up front, before allowing any work to be performed. If the chimney cleaner detects a problem, ask for a revised estimate, and don’t let the additional work done until you have agreed on the work and the price.

HOME TIP: Help prevent a dangerous buildup of creosote in your chimney by burning hotter, cleaner fires. Use well-aged hardwood and crack a window in the room to draw in more oxygen.

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(c) 2012 King Features Synd., Inc.