Best time for  Fireplace Chimney Cleaning & Sweep – Chimney Cleaning
Chimney cleaning has no standard rules. The cleaning process depends on the kind of fireplace you have and how frequently you use your heating system. For example, if you use unseasoned wood and it does not burn completely, creosote will form. Creosote is a tar-like vapor that forms when wet wood is burned without enough oxygen. If left to buildup beyond a certain width, the highly flammable residue can lead to the chimney and worse still- house fires. The National Fire Protection Association recommends that chimneys, fireplaces, and vents be inspected at least once per year.
Important Tips when cleaning your chimney
Many experts agree that spring is the best time to have your inspection and do your chimney cleaning. Doing this before the burning season will save you time and resources

It is also important that you have the necessary equipment if you intend to clean your chimney yourself otherwise known as DIY.  The tools you need to have include:

• Dust mask, Safety glasses, Flashlight

How to Clean the Chimney
 
Many homeowners love the nostalgic ambiance, coziness, and warmth of a wood-burning fireplace. Many memories are created as friends, family or couples snuggle by the fireside. With this comfort and pleasure come the responsibility of proper cleaning and maintenance. Without cleaning and care, your home and family might be at risk of dangers like carbon monoxide poisoning or fire. Regular cleaning and inspection, advisably by a professional fireplace chimney sweep will prevent creosote buildup and consequently protect your fireplace from hazards.
 
Table salt is also known as Sodium Chloride is a very useful substance you can use to clean your chimney. Pus it is readily available in almost every household. All you have to do is throw a few pints of the table slat in the fire while it is burning. The fire will break down the salt and moisture in the wood which will form a weak acid when they combine and will dissolve the creosote inside your chimney walls. This method will however only effectively work depending on how much creosote has accumulated in the chimney walls. Also, do not use this method if you have a metal chimney as the weak acid can lead to corrosion.
 
Alternatively, you can use Copper sulfate. This chemical copper interacts with the soot or creosote inside the chimney making it burn away at a very low temperature. Read instructions before using any chemical.

Scrubbing- remains the most effective way of chimney cleaning. It is safer and all you need are the right tools for the job.