Chimney Champions is a Jacksonville, FL chimney service company staffed by CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep® technicians who are members of the National Chimney Sweep Guild. The company performs annual chimney sweeps, inspections and repairs for Jacksonville homeowners and trains its technicians annually through CSIA, CVC Coaching and All Star Relining. Chimney Champions is also IAC2 certified and operates in compliance with NFPA 211. This guide explains what Jacksonville homeowners can do between professional cleanings and where a DIY approach must stop. These supplemental tips are not a substitute for a professional chimney sweep. Do not attempt any self-cleaning if your fireplace has never been professionally inspected and confirmed safe for use. Why does a chimney need regular cleaning? Creosote, soot and debris collect inside a flue every time a fire burns, and leaving that buildup in place makes it harder to remove over time. The Chimney Safety Institute of America … Continued