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inside of pipe with creosote

What dissolves creosote? First, to understand the different types of options, you will have, you got to know what is creosote. Remember, a complete chimney cleaning is not only getting rid of the burned wood and vacuuming the chimney.

Creosote is the by-product of condensation and often affects wood stoves and fireplaces.

Creosote in chimneys is a hazard to both people and pets, since it’s a combustible material that can be dangerous to anyone who breathes it.

Tips to reduce creosote

cleaning hacks to reduce

It is impossible to prevent our fireplace from generating waste when we use it. However, it is possible to reduce the amount of it. To avoid the formation of too much creosote, simply open the chimney flue to its maximum when we light it, keeping it open for a few minutes. The wood will burn a little faster, but the fumes will burn faster, and therefore the degree of humidity will be below.

The importance of using well-dried firewood is enormous. Logs without the proper treatment may lay moisture inside, which increases the likelihood of creosote forming in the chimney.

Tips for dissolving creosote | What Dissolves Creosote?

tips for dissolving creosote

If you are going to use this product, be sure to wear the appropriate protective equipment before any action. Rubber gloves, mask, and goggles.

Apply it when the chimney is still hot, it will generate a stream that dries and detaches the residues, causing them to fall to the base or tray to be easily removed.

Depending on the area of the chimney to be cleaned, the smoke evacuation pipe, the interior of the combustion chamber, or its glass, we will always use one product or another.

Remember that the little cleaning maintenance will deteriorate over time the pipe and increases the probability of fire.

An effective way to remove from the flue this flammable and toxic substance that forms when creosote burns in a fuel source, is the chimney cleaning solvent.

Another optimal method for removing creosote from the chimney is to use an absorbent broom or vacuum cleaner. The steps for cleaning a chimney with these products are the same as with dry-based products. However, they require access to the top of the flue.

It is preferable to use wet-based cleaners, as they will dissolve deposits in the flue more quickly.

Professionals recommend using a wet base cleaner because it is more effective at breaking up small pieces of creosote.

This method should be done by a professional only, to avoid possible accidents.

HomeMade Tips to dissolve creosote

homemade tips to eliminate creosote

If buying or using chemical compounds is not a good idea for you, you can try homemade ways to dissolve creosote.

The great advantage of homemade hacks is that you don’t have to waste too much money. Somehow, you will reduce exposition to chemicals and avoid dangerous accidents.

Vinegar is always an excellent way to dissolve creosote since it’s a natural acid that will break it down less quickly, just by pouring the vinegar onto the creosote and waiting for it to dissolve.

Suppose you are looking for a more natural approach to removing creosote. In that case, you can use salt water instead of vinegar and any other chemical chimney cleaner.

Suppose you don’t have any idea of how salt can help you eradicate creosote in your furniture. In that case, you can look up our blog Can I Use Burning Rock Salt to Clean Chimney Creosote? And see step by step the whole process of using salt in creosote.

Tools and Techniques on What Dissolve Creosote

cleaning tools and tecnhinques

What dissolves Creosote, can always be a tricky question to answer since we must know where it is located and how do we do it, so here are some tools and techniques that might help you. By using pressure washing, you can help decrease the amount of creosote from your chimney.

Bleach is a great tool to use to dissolve creosote and is readily available in most homes. Mix one part bleach to nine parts water and apply it to the creosote with a sprayer or garden hose. Be sure to avoid getting the bleach on plants or grass, as it will kill them.

Using a chimney wire brush aids in cleaning the flue and, in some ways, can help remove creosote buildup.

This is only an option if there are no flammable materials inside your home or on your property. With a fire by lighting small fires in your fireplace periodically throughout the year, you can try to dissolve creosote.

The primary function of these methods and tools is to slowly remove the tars and oils from the creosote, ultimately resulting in the breakdown and removal of the creosote.

If you are unsure of the best procedure for getting rid of creosote in your home, be sure to call in a professional. At EA Chimney & Roofing will be able to help you identify the source of the buildup and help you choose the most productive solution. Creosote can be an unsafe substance, so it is crucial to take the necessary precautions when dealing with it.

Safety Tips

Remember, always read the safety instructions whenever you use a creosote chemical remover. By doing it, you can prevent future damages and injuries. Also, you will use the proper amount of chemicals.

As mentioned above, always use gloves, goggles, and a mask if you are too allergic to chemicals. Also, make sure to keep a very ventilated area and avoid lighting, cigarettes, or any other flames until creosote has been completely dissolved.

Professional Assistance

As mentioned before, the dissolution of creosote is part of the process of deep chimney cleaning.

For fantastic results and great customer service, EA Chimney & Roofing Corp is your best option. With 15 years of experience, our main goal is to always deliver the service our clients deserve!

Do not hesitate and contact us now, we take charge of all those challenging tasks. Leave work to the best professionals in town.