Hansen & Sons Chimney & Fireplace: We’re the Preferred Chimney Sweep Near McFarland

If you live in McFarland, Madison, Monona, Stoughton, Cottage Grove, Fitchburg, Oregon, Sun Prairie, Verona, DeForest, Windsor, Maple Bluff, Shorewood Hills, Waunakee, Middleton, or a close by town and it’s time for your next chimney sweeping, reach out to the team at Hansen & Sons Chimney & Fireplace. Find out why residents all over Dane County have turned to us for more than 70 years! For chimney services near you, we’re the best.

What Is Chimney Sweeping?

Chimney sweeping involves removing built-up soot, creosote, and debris that has adhered to the interior walls of your chimney using specialized brushes, rods, and vacuums. These byproducts are the result of burning fuels like wood, coal, and others in your heating appliance.

Chimney sweeping is an important part of your maintenance routine that protects your home from chimney fires that can be ignited by highly flammable creosote. Additionally, chimney sweeping promotes proper ventilation and lowers the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. It can also greatly improve the efficiency of your heating system.

How Often Do I Need To Have My Chimney Swept?

Routine chimney sweeping is essential for maintaining a safe and efficient home heating system. Ideally, a certified professional will sweep your chimney at least once a year – particularly before the burning season returns. Abiding by an annual cleaning schedule is strongly recommended by industry leaders such as the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).

However, how often you require a chimney cleaning can vary depending on your household and your level of fireplace usage. Residents who use their fireplaces often may need more than one cleaning throughout the year. Conversely, a neighbor who rarely uses their fireplace might only need a cleaning every two years.

To figure out what kind of schedule makes the most sense for you, speak with your chimney technician at your next appointment for annual maintenance. Together, you can come up with a plan that reflects the current state and takes prior history into account.

Living room with a lit fireplace

I Have a Gas Appliance – Do I Still Need an Annual Cleaning?

Although gas-heating appliances indeed tend to require less maintenance than wood-burning models, regular chimney sweepings are still a crucial part of a proper maintenance plan. While they produce less creosote and soot, gas fireplaces aren’t immune to buildup. As time goes on, dust, pet hair, and other stray bits can get trapped in the chimney system.

Yearly maintenance is intended to get the most out of your appliance while avoiding major inconveniences or interruptions in operation. Annual gas appliance inspections and cleanings can also uncover mechanical malfunctions that need to be repaired before they interrupt how your appliance works.

We’re happy to help with gas servicing on any appliances that were installed by our crew!

 

How Can I Tell That My Chimney Needs To Be Swept?

In a perfect world, chimney sweepings would only be required annually and your chimney system will work perfectly in between those yearly appointments. Unfortunately, you may need to call us in before it’s time for your next routine appointment. If you see any of the following signs, reach out to us to book a chimney sweeping:

  • Smoke is backing up into your living area. Smoke should always flow out of your chimney, not into your living space. If a cloud of smoke enters your home when you start a fire, it may be due to a blockage or heavy soot buildup that requires professional cleaning.
  • There is an unpleasant odor. Don’t ignore strong, unpleasant smells – especially during warm weather as this can be a sign of creosote buildup. A persistent smoke odor when the fireplace is off is another indicator that your chimney needs cleaning.
  • You can see creosote, soot, and other buildup. A significant amount of soot or creosote on the chimney walls is a fire hazard and requires a chimney cleaning.
  • The draft is weak. Have trouble getting a fire going or keeping it burning? A poor draft could be caused by blockages or buildup in the chimney.
  • Debris is falling into the chimney. Watch out for chunks of creosote or other debris falling into your fireplace. This could indicate chimney deterioration which requires a professional inspection as soon as possible.
  • Wildlife has moved in. Birds and animals love chimneys for nesting, but their presence can create blockages. If you suspect animals are present, call a sweep for safe removal.

Do I Really Need To Hire a Professional Chimney Sweep?

While chimney sweeping might seem like a reasonable DIY project to tackle over a long weekend, safety should always take priority and that means hiring a professional company like Hansen & Sons. Our experienced chimney sweeps have the expertise and access to specialized tools that are necessary for a thorough and safe cleaning. Attempting a DIY chimney sweep risks incomplete creosote removal, which significantly increases your chance of a chimney fire.

Hansen & Sons goes beyond just sweeping. Our certified professionals are trained to identify and address structural issues, blockages, and other hidden dangers that an untrained eye might miss. Choosing us guarantees a chimney sweep that meets the highest standards, maximizing both the efficiency of your fireplace and the safety of your home.

McFarland Chimney Sweep: For Chimney Services Near You, Trust Us

Set against the backdrop of Lake Waubesa, McFarland, WI offers a charming small-town atmosphere with big-city accessibility. Just a stone’s throw from Madison, our vibrant village is known for its strong sense of community, stunning natural beauty, and convenient location. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful escape or a launching pad for exploring the greater Madison area, McFarland has something to pique your curiosity.

Spend the day at McDaniel Park boating along Lake Waubesa or take the family to McFarland Aquatic Center for a cool-down on a warm day. Or better yet, appease your inner history buff with a tour of the McFarland Historical Society Museum to learn more about McFarland’s storied past.

When you’ve taken in all of the local sights and history McFarland has to offer, turn your attention to relaxing and winding down next to your fireplace. But if smoke suddenly puts a stop to your plans by taking over the room or there is so much creosote buildup that you don’t feel comfortable starting a fire, reach out to Hansen & Sons to schedule a chimney sweeping near you today. Get in touch with us online or give us a call at 608-466-4185. We’re here to help.

Is It Time for You Yearly Chimney Sweeping? Call Hansen & Sons Today!

An annual chimney sweep isn’t just another tick on your maintenance list. It’s an investment in peace of mind, safeguarding your home and loved ones from serious dangers like chimney fires and carbon monoxide poisoning. Don’t wait until the cold weather arrives to schedule your cleaning. Ensure a safe and cozy burning season by contacting Hansen & Sons today at 608-466-4185. You can also visit us online to schedule your next appointment.

fireplace

Testimonials

Hansen & Sons replaced our old gas fireplace with a beautiful new one. We considered converting to gas and through the whole process they were very transparent and open about the pros and cons of both. They were always on time and extremely professional in our home. They did a wonderful job and we definitely recommend them.

We were so impressed with the work that Hansen & Sons did on our chimney and fireplace. They were so informative and communicative during the whole process. I would HIGHLY recommend working with them. First rate service!

 

Is your home maintenance to-do list overwhelming? Let the crews at Hansen & Sons ease your load. Call on our skills to come to Cambridge, a valued part of our service area.