A chimney liner is a crucial component of a chimney system that serves several important functions:

1. Safety: A chimney liner helps to contain the by-products of combustion (such as carbon monoxide) within the chimney and prevents them from entering the living space. This is critical to ensure the safety of the occupants of the building.

2. Efficiency: A chimney liner helps to ensure that the by-products of combustion are properly vented out of the building, which improves the efficiency of the heating system.

3. Protection: A chimney liner helps to protect the interior of the chimney and the surrounding structure from the high temperatures and corrosive by-products of combustion. This helps to prolong the life of the chimney and reduce the need for costly repairs.

4. Code Compliance: Many municipalities require that chimneys have a liner, as it is a safety requirement. Building codes specify the minimum size and material that must be used.

5. Insulation: A liner can also help to insulate the chimney, which can help to reduce heat loss and improve energy efficiency.

Overall, a chimney liner is an important component of a chimney system that helps to ensure safety, efficiency, and longevity. If a liner is missing, damaged, or not to code, it can be dangerous and can lead to costly repairs. It’s important to have a professional inspect your chimney liner and repair or replace it as needed to ensure that it is in good condition.

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recommends that you have your chimney inspected at least once a year, before the start of the heating season. This is the best time to have it inspected because it ensures that any potential problems can be identified and addressed before they become serious issues.

However, if you use your fireplace or wood stove frequently, you should have your chimney inspected more often. The more frequently you use your chimney, the more often it will need to be inspected.

Additionally, if you haven’t had your chimney inspected in a while, if you notice any signs of wear or damage, or if you are planning any renovations or remodeling that may impact the chimney, it’s a good idea to have it inspected.

It’s important to note that regular cleaning and inspections should be performed by a professional chimney sweep, not by the homeowner. A professional will have the tools, knowledge, and experience to properly inspect and clean your chimney, and will be able to identify potential hazards and make recommendations for repairs or upgrades.

It is important to have your chimney inspected before the start of the heating season, which is typically in the fall or winter. This is because the chimney is most likely to be used during this time and any potential problems can be identified and addressed before they become serious issues.

However, it’s not necessarily important to have your chimney inspected in the summer, if it’s not being used. But if you notice any signs of wear or damage, or if you are planning any renovations or remodeling that may impact the chimney, it’s a good idea to have it inspected during the summer too.

Also, if you have a gas fireplace and you use it throughout the year, it is recommended to have it inspected annually regardless of the season.

Overall, it’s important to have your chimney inspected annually, and if you have any concerns or are planning any changes to your home, it’s a good idea to have it inspected. A professional chimney sweep can help to identify potential hazards and make recommendations for repairs or upgrades, ensuring the safety and efficiency of your chimney system.