Chimney & Fireplace Services Near Milford, CT: Trust Total Chimney Care
At Total Chimney Care, we’re proud to bring expert chimney and fireplace services near you in Milford. Whether you need a routine chimney sweep, fireplace repair, or just some help improving your fireplace’s performance, our experienced team is here to help. We’ve built our reputation on providing professional, reliable service that keeps your home safer and more comfortable – reach out now.
Chimney Sweep & Fireplace Repair Services Near You: What We Offer
If you’re in Orange, West Haven, Stratford, Devon, Woodmont, Shelton, Ansonia, East Haven, Bridgeport, New Haven, or anywhere else nearby, turn to us for:
- Chimney & Fireplace Sweeping
- Oil, Gas & Propane Utility Flue Cleaning
- Chimney & Fireplace Inspections
- Chimney & Fireplace Repairs & Installs
- Firebox Repairs
- Chimney Relining
- Chimney Damper Replacement
- Chimney Cap Installation
- Chase Cover Replacement
- Chimney Leak Repair
- Chimney Waterproofing
- Flashing Repair
We also offer dryer vent cleaning services. Reach out today to schedule your appointment.
Do I Really Need To Clean My Chimney Every Year?
Yes – homeowners should have their chimney cleaned at least once a year. This even goes for unused chimneys, rarely used chimneys, gas-fueled chimneys, chimneys for furnaces, and prefabricated chimneys. There are no exceptions!
Remember that annual chimney sweeping isn’t just a recommendation…it’s a critical safety measure that ensures better protection for your home and family. And even if you don’t use your fireplace very often, nest materials and other debris can still build up, creating potential hazards.
Why are annual chimney sweepings and inspection such a necessity?
- Fire Prevention: Burning wood produces creosote, a highly flammable substance that sticks to the inner walls of your chimney. Over time, it accumulates and can ignite, causing a chimney fire.
- Improved Efficiency: A clean chimney allows smoke and gases to exit the home efficiently. When your chimney is blocked or dirty, your fireplace won’t heat as well, and smoke might not draft properly.
- Carbon Monoxide Protection: Obstructions in your chimney – whether from creosote, nesting animals, or debris – can prevent carbon monoxide from venting properly. This odorless, invisible gas can build up in your home, inviting serious health risks.
- Animal & Nest Removal: Birds, squirrels, and raccoons like to nest inside unused chimneys, especially during spring and fall. These nests can cause blockages and turn into fire hazards should you light things up down the line.
- Early Problem Identification: Early detection of damage – like cracks, leaks, loose bricks, damaged components, etc. – can prevent more serious (and expensive) repairs down the road.
Why Does My House Smell Like Smoke When I’m Not Using the Fireplace?
If your house smells like smoke, even when the fireplace isn’t in use, it’s usually a sign that something isn’t right with your chimney system.
Oftentimes, we find these odors are caused by creosote buildup. Leftover creosote in your chimney can emit a strong smoky odor, especially in humid or rainy weather – and the smell can seep into your home through the firebox opening. Since creosote is also highly flammable, removing excess deposits is imperative.
Just had a chimney cleaning? There still could be smoky odors coming in due to negative air pressure in your home. Essentially, homes that are “too tight” (i.e. tightly insulated for energy efficiency) will often pull air down the chimney when it can’t get make-up air from anywhere else.
Whatever the case, we can help with solutions, whether that involves sweeping your flue, installing a chimney cap to prevent downdrafts, or suggesting make-up air solutions. And if someone else is causing foul odors, like outside debris buildup, animals in the flue, or water problems, we can help with that too. Reach out now.
What Should I Do if I Hear Chirping in My Chimney?
If you hear chirping in your chimney, the most likely cause is birds nesting in the flue – although other critters can produce similar-sounding chirping noises. Regardless, having any type of animal in your chimney isn’t ideal. Here’s what you should do if you hear chirping coming from your chimney:
- Do NOT start a fire. Avoid using your fireplace until you know what’s causing the noise. Lighting a fire with birds or other animals inside can be dangerous and inhumane – and it’s not beneficial to either party. It typically won’t work to scare them out, rather just cause them or their young to pass away…and you’ll still have a blockage.
- Call in an expert. Contact a certified chimney sweep or wildlife control expert. They can assess the situation safely and legally to determine if the animals are protected species (like chimney swifts). In these cases, you’ll need to wait until the birds migrate in the fall before removing the nesting materials.
- Book a sweeping and inspection. Once the critters have been removed or left on their own, a chimney sweep can clean the chimney and sweep away any debris or buildup that was left behind. You shouldn’t use your fireplace until this has been completed, as these materials can be a fire hazard or invite gas leaks.
- Have a chimney cap installed. Once the birds have left and the nest has been removed, have a chimney cap installed if yours is damaged or missing. This metal cover is the best defense against birds, animals, leaves, and rain, ensuring nothing is entering your chimney that shouldn’t be.
In short, chirping in your chimney is a sign to pause and call in the pros. With the right steps, you can safely address the issue, protect any wildlife involved, and keep your chimney clear for future use – a win-win-win!
Mildford Chimney Sweep Company: We Love Serving You
Milford, CT has it all. Rich history? Check. Scenic beauty? Check. Small-town charm? Check. Shoreline appeal? Check. Located along the Long Island Sound between New Haven and Bridgeport, Milford blends historic character with waterfront recreation, making it a popular spot for almost everybody.
One notable feature about this town is that it has one of the longest coastlines in Connecticut – more than 17 miles. And its access to the Long Island Sound plays a big role in defining the town’s identity and lifestyle, with boating, kayaking, and beach days all central to life in Milford.
Another notable asset of the area? Milford’s Historic Downtown Green – it’s one of the largest downtown areas in New England, and is a major hub for community events, farmers markets, and festivals. The town was settled in 1639, and you can still see colonial-era buildings and churches surrounding the green!
Other must-visit spots include Wepawaug River & Memorial Bridge, Silver Sands State Park, Charles Island Legends, and Walnut Beach. And don’t miss the annual Oyster Festival held every August.
We love traveling to this city when homeowners book a chimney or dryer vent appointment. Milford offers a rare balance of small-town warmth and coastal living, and we’re happy to drive through to bring the best fireplace services around. Ready to work with us? Book today.
Schedule Your Chimney Services With Us
When it comes to keeping your chimney and fireplace in top condition, homeowners in Milford, CT count on the trusted professionals at Total Chimney Care. From routine maintenance and repairs to full fireplace system installations, we bring decades of experience, quality workmanship, and a strong commitment to safety.
Let us help you enjoy peace of mind and a warmer, more comfortable home – schedule your fireplace services with Total Chimney Care today.
Did you know that New Haven is also part of our service area? If you live nearby, make us your go-to chimney company.