Why Shouldn’t You Clean Puffback Soot Yourself?

10/11/2022 (Permalink)

Don't try to clean puffback soot yourself.

Why Shouldn't You Clean Your Own Puffback Soot?

A furnace puffback is a term that refers to smoke coming out of your furnace.  This can be caused by a number of things, but it’s important to know the right steps to take in order to restore your property back to normal. A professional restoration company will have the tools and skillset needed in order clean up this mess and prevent further damage from occurring.

The problem with a furnace puffback can be very messy and confusing.

A furnace puffback occurs when there is a build-up of soot in the exhaust flue and ducts. The problem with a furnace puffback can be very messy and confusing. If you want to avoid cleaning your furnace yourself, here are some reasons why:

• You risk getting burned from hot metal surfaces.
• You may not have the right tools needed to clean out your ductwork properly.
• You may not be able to access all areas that need cleaning because it's located in tight spaces or behind walls.

Steps to restore your property back to normal

If this happens, it’s important to know the right steps to take in order to restore your property back to normal.

• Call a professional restoration company. If you are unsure of what type of service you need, ask your insurance agent or contact us at (214) 343-3973.

• We will be happy to help figure out what type of cleaning is needed and provide an estimate on how much it will cost.
• Turn off the fuel supply. It’s very important not to turn on any electricity if you have suffered a fire because there could still be live wires that could cause an electrical shock or worse electrocution if touched during cleanup efforts.
• Clean up any soot from walls, floors, and furniture with water only (no detergents). We also recommend wiping down all surfaces with either warm water or rubbing alcohol after vacuuming up as much soot as possible using a shop vac at low-speed setting (high speed may scatter more dust).
• Remove damaged items from rooms if safe for removal, otherwise cover them with plastic while they are cleaned by professionals later in process.

If you have an oil furnace puffback, turn off the fuel supply as well. This will allow a professional to clean up the mess and restore your property.

Next, call a professional restoration company.

If you have a puffback soot problem, you shouldn't attempt to clean it yourself.

• Do not use a vacuum cleaner or shop vac. These will spread the soot and make the situation worse.
• Do not use water or cleaning solutions of any kind, even if they are labeled "odorless." They may not be as strong as other cleaners but can still leave behind residue that will cause future problems for your home.
• Likewise, don't use a blow dryer or fire extinguisher to try to get rid of puffback soot on your walls and ceilings—these items can damage what they're used on!

If you have any questions about your puffback situation, don’t hesitate to contact us. We can help!