Chimneys and Ducts

Maintenance of chimneys and ducts, and annual inspection by an expert are essential to your safety. Flues that are in poor condition or obstructed could cause a fuel-burning device to generate dangerous levels of carbon monoxide in your home. They should be replaced immediately by a natural gas-certified professional. Please note that even small quantities of carbon monoxide can pose a threat to health.

Several times during the heating season, we recommend that you take a few minutes to carry out the following checks:

• If you have a device with a flue that passes through masonry-bricks and mortar or a stone chimney, check to see if there is a chalky deposit on the outside of the chimney, staining on or near the chimney, loose or cracked mortar, or fragments of brick or stone in the chimney cleanout. If you notice such indications inside or outside your chimney, have it inspected by an expert. An approved metal liner should be installed in a brick or stone chimney to prevent deterioration.
• Used a hand-held mirror to check the inside of the chimney through the cleanout, and make sure there is no obstruction. If your chimney has an elbow, have it inspected by an expert.
• If the flue is installed against an outside wall, make sure that the end is not obstructed by tree branches, snow or anything else that could block the evacuation of combustion gases.