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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.

The NFPA model codes and International Residential Code (IRC) mandate that all new one- and two-family homes have fire sprinkler systems. However, all municipalities are different. The best way to determine if your municipality requires fire sprinklers is to contact your state fire marshal’s office. One reason to install a fire sprinkler system is that it’s the first line of defense in putting out a fire and alerting your family of emergencies.

You should never block both the top and bottom of your chimney. Proper airflow is essential because the temperature inside the chimney will still fluctuate as your house warms and cools. Moisture can build up without ventilation, leading to dampness in your walls over time. Blocking the top prevents debris and animals from entering, but the chimney still needs air circulation to avoid condensation issues. Allowing the chimney to breathe maintains the health of your home and prevents long-term damage.

You should not attempt to disable a smoke alarm unless you’ve already activated a replacement unit. To stop a hardwired smoke alarm from beeping, reset the device or silence the alarm. If you’re removing a hardwired alarm, shut off the power, turn the unit counterclockwise to remove it from the ceiling, and disconnect the wiring.