What You Need To Know About Your Oil-Fired Appliances:

Most homeowners are aware of the need for chimney cleaning and inspection if they own a wood-burning stove or regularly use their fireplace, but many don't realize that oil heating appliances also relies on the chimney for proper venting of the exhaust. That chimney system also requires annual inspections for efficient operation.

Maybe you're in the market for a new oil-fired appliance or your chimney or oil service technician has recommended that you have your chimney relined before making a change to your appliance. Chimney Safety Institute of America has more information about relining your oil-fired appliance chimney available.

A common misconception is that your oil service technician takes care of the chimney. The reality is that the oil burner company may shovel out the base of a brick chimney and they may brush out the connector pipes, but likely will not clean the chimney system.

Annual servicing of your oil-fired appliance chimney includes going to the roof and inspecting the interior as well as the exterior masonry (if applicable), flashing, chimney cap, etc.

Just as the oil furnace is serviced annually, so should your chimney system be serviced annually by a Certified Chimney Sweep.