How Often Should You Get Your Chimney Cleaned in Spokane — And Why It Matters
When you think about keeping your home safe, how often should you clean your chimney in Spokane might not be the first question you ask. But for homeowners wondering how often should you clean your chimney in Spokane, this essential seasonal task directly affects your safety and peace of mind.
Why Chimney Cleaning Is More Than Just Maintenance
Creosote Buildup — A Hidden Fire Risk
Every time you burn wood, a dark, tar-like substance called creosote builds up inside the chimney flue. Over time, this buildup becomes highly flammable and is a leading cause of chimney fires. You can’t always see it, but it’s there — waiting.
Carbon Monoxide & Indoor Air Quality
A blocked chimney not only increases the risk of fire but also traps gases like carbon monoxide inside your home. Even small leaks can impact your indoor air quality and lead to health concerns like headaches, fatigue, or worse.
How Often Should You Clean Your Chimney in Spokane — What Locals Need to Know
Wood-Burning Fireplaces vs. Gas Fireplaces
If you use a wood-burning fireplace or stove regularly during Spokane’s cold winters, you should schedule a cleaning at least once a year. Gas fireplaces tend to be cleaner, but they should still be inspected annually to ensure the venting is clear and functioning properly.
Seasonal Use Matters
Chimneys that see heavy use during the colder months need more frequent care than those used occasionally. If you burn more than a cord of wood each season, you may need two sweeps per year — one before winter and one after.
What the NFPA & Local Codes Recommend
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recommends an annual inspection, regardless of how much you use your chimney. In Spokane County, this is not only best practice — it’s peace of mind.
What Happens If You Don’t Clean Your Chimney?
Fire Hazards & Property Damage
Chimney fires can reach temperatures over 2,000°F. That’s enough to crack flue liners, melt mortar, and ignite surrounding materials. One neglected sweep could cost you thousands in repair — or worse.
Insurance Issues You Might Face
Many insurance companies will not cover chimney-related fire damage if there’s no record of regular maintenance. Skipping a $150 cleaning could risk voiding coverage on a $500,000 home.
Signs Your Chimney Might Be Overdue for Cleaning
- You notice smoke backing into the room
- There’s a strong, musty odor from the fireplace
- You see black soot or creosote flakes on the hearth
- It’s been more than 12 months since your last inspection
Spokane’s Weather & Why Timing Matters
Winter Preparation
Before the first burn of the season, a sweep helps ensure safe performance during Spokane’s icy months. Cold air can trap smoke if the chimney isn’t drawing properly.
Post-Summer Cleanouts
Even if you don’t use your fireplace over the summer, animals and moisture can cause debris and mold buildup. A quick check before lighting the first fire can prevent unwanted surprises.
Professional vs. DIY Chimney Sweeping in Spokane
While there are DIY chimney sweeping kits, nothing replaces the trained eye of a professional. Certified technicians don’t just remove soot — they identify early signs of structural issues, liner damage, or water leaks that DIY tools miss.
Schedule Your Inspection — Stay Ahead of the Risk
If you can’t remember your last chimney cleaning, it’s time. At SweepNest Spokane, we’ve helped hundreds of local families breathe easier and burn safer. Book your annual inspection today and enjoy the warmth of your fireplace — without the risk.
Still wondering how often should you clean your chimney in Spokane? At SweepNest, we recommend annual cleanings for most homes — and our certified team is just a call away.
Our sweeps follow the standards set by the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA), ensuring every inspection and cleaning meets industry-certified safety benchmarks.
According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), every chimney should be inspected at least once a year to prevent fire hazards and ensure safe operation.
If it’s been more than 12 months since your last inspection, it might be time to schedule a chimney sweeping with our certified Spokane team.
