Do metal flue fireplaces need cleaning ?

[chief_wiggum]

I've got the metal pre-manufactured fireplace that has the double walled flue, and was wondering if there is any need to clean it ?

If so, is this something I can easily do with a "chimney cleaning brush" or is it necessary to hire a "chimney sweep"

I left 3 messages for Dick Van Dyke, but he won't return my calls

Oh, btw it's wood burning, not gas.

[Edited by chief_wiggum on 11-25-2004 at 01:06 AM]

[hearthman]

wood burning appliances need periodic service regardless of what the chimney and flue liner are made of. How often is a function of how much you use it, how you use it, how it's built, etc.

The Nat'l Chimney Sweep Guild recommends flues be swept when there's 1/4" build up of creosote or if you experience problems. On metal flues, no steel brushes. Use only soft bristles such as nylon or poly. Some sweeps and stove shops will sell you this equipment. You can also find it online. What these cannot do is inspect the system the way a sweep can. That's why I recommend you pay the sweep for the 1st sweeping at least. Also, dusting your house just once can pay for a lot of swab jobs. ASk for an NFPA Level II inspection.

Too many things to list as to what to look for. If it was that easy, everyone could be a sweep! BTW, a sweep doesn't have to be Certified by the CSIA to be good. Many sweeps, like me, don't ascribe to the politics of the NCSG anymore and have dropped out. Other credentials to look for are http://www.F-I-R-E-Service.com Certified Fireplace Inspectors and Certified Wood, Gas, or Pellet Hearth Professionals by the National Fireplace Institute at http://www.nficertified.org

HTH,
FIRE Certified Fireplace Inspector
NFI Instructor in Gas & Wood