Do you leave the damper open when burning a creosote log?

• <div><p>Yes, you need to leave your chimney damper open when burning a creosote log so that smoke and other debris doesn’t waft into your house as it’s burning. You’ll need to make sure your damper is fully open, even when the log continues to smoke, until it’s completely out and cold. </p></div>

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Q: Can you use a chimney without a flue?

• <div><p>No. Removing the cause of concern will only lead to deeper concern. You cannot use any fire-powered appliance like a fireplace or furnace without an escape route for the smoke and fumes. If you remove the flue intending to repair or replace it, you should only use the fireplace, wood stove, or furnace once the flue is in working order. If you cannot replace the flue you have removed, call a <a href="https://www.angi.com/nearme/chimney-repair/">chimney repair professional</a> immediately.</p></div>

Q: What can I do to help prevent flue blockages?

• <div><p>Regular professional chimney cleaning and a well-fitting chimney cap are two of the most effective measures to help prevent flue blockages. Annual cleaning keeps the flue from developing a thick layer of creosote. The chimney cap keeps debris out and stops critters from going down your flue for shelter while carrying clog-worthy nesting material.</p></div>

Q: Can a hot fire burn off or remove creosote?

• <div><p>While a hot fire can help heat up and loosen tar within your chimney, making it a recommended step before using a creosote log, it will not burn off significant existing buildup on its own. Attempting to remove built-up creosote with a hot fire is dangerous and can cause a chimney fire. For safe and effective removal of caked-on creosote, the best approach is to hire a professional chimney sweep.</p></div>

Q: What are the benefits of hiring a professional for oil-fired chimney maintenance?

• <div><p>DIY cleaning is possible, but professionals ensure thorough soot removal and check for hazardous creosote buildup.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Fire Pit Installation pros in Palestine, IL

*The Angi rating for Fire Pit Installation companies in Palestine, IL is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Fire Pit Installation needs.

*The HomeAdvisor rating for Fire Pit Installation companies in Palestine, IL is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Fire Pit Installation needs.

Last update on January 30, 2026

Reviewed in January 2026
I asked for a quote for a complete solar installation on my RV locally. no one ever contacted me.
FusionPower
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Reviewed in September 2023
I am thoroughly impressed with the new bathtub installed by Perfect Choice. Their attention to detail and high quality materials shine through.
Perfect Choice Exteriors LLC
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Reviewed in September 2022
Team of four showed and and make quick work of the installation. Problems on my end arrived and the team and I quickly came to resolution. Excellent input, work ethic and top notch service. Highly recommend to all my business and personal friends.
WILKINS OVERHEAD DOORS
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Reviewed in August 2022
From the ladies at the office to the installation guy’s nothing but hard working helpful respectful people. Went above and beyond what was asked for. Highly recommend going with them. Thanks
K BROTHERS FENCE, INC.
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Reviewed in February 2022
They have done a few projects for me ranging from landscaping to fan installation , washer/dryer installation, and assembly of storage cabinets. Always on time, reasonable price, professional and clean up when done.
Rent A Man, LLC
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Reviewed in January 2016
Matt Bruso of Four Seasons Garage Doors was incredibly professional and was "in tune" with giving me the best customer service - better than I've seen in a contractor for many weeks! He is top notch and had my new garage door opener/and spring installed in less than two hours and was...
Four Seasons Garage Doors
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Reviewed in September 2013
The roofers had the misfortune of working through the hottest days we've had this summer. They did a good job on the roof and carefully cleaned up trash and nails. <br /> New window installation on a very high window went well. The carpenter also carefully added siding around a curved top piece...
Paitson & Son Home Improvement
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Reviewed in March 2013
Ron, the proprietor, made the original visit to scope out the job in July and estimated the job would be completed in two days. His quote on the job was reasonable, and I was impressed with his demeanor and professionalism. The job was scheduled for mid-August. When the work crew finally showed...
R & S HEATING & AIR COND
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Fire Pit Installation questions, answered by experts

No. Removing the cause of concern will only lead to deeper concern. You cannot use any fire-powered appliance like a fireplace or furnace without an escape route for the smoke and fumes. If you remove the flue intending to repair or replace it, you should only use the fireplace, wood stove, or furnace once the flue is in working order. If you cannot replace the flue you have removed, call a chimney repair professional immediately.

Regular professional chimney cleaning and a well-fitting chimney cap are two of the most effective measures to help prevent flue blockages. Annual cleaning keeps the flue from developing a thick layer of creosote. The chimney cap keeps debris out and stops critters from going down your flue for shelter while carrying clog-worthy nesting material.

While a hot fire can help heat up and loosen tar within your chimney, making it a recommended step before using a creosote log, it will not burn off significant existing buildup on its own. Attempting to remove built-up creosote with a hot fire is dangerous and can cause a chimney fire. For safe and effective removal of caked-on creosote, the best approach is to hire a professional chimney sweep.

DIY cleaning is possible, but professionals ensure thorough soot removal and check for hazardous creosote buildup.

Yes, you need to leave your chimney damper open when burning a creosote log so that smoke and other debris doesn’t waft into your house as it’s burning. You’ll need to make sure your damper is fully open, even when the log continues to smoke, until it’s completely out and cold.

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