Blocked Chimney...need advice

Noticed my stove wasn't drafting well and thought I'd clean my chimney. It really didn't look too bad being I had cleaned it around Thanksgiving. There must have been some creosote buildup just above the thimble and I can not get it broke free. It is really plugged and not sure what to do. I have called a sweep to see if they can help. The chimney is double brick with 8 x 12 clay liner. I always burn dry seasoned wood so this is quite unexpected...any thoughts?

 

The temps around here have been quite the roller coaster. We've had 60's one weekend...20's the next. Been hard to burn hot all the time

 

What level of DIY are you comfortable with?
What do you have for potential chimney cleaning tools?
Is there a cleanout? Top and/or bottom access?

 

No problem with DIY...just out of ideas. I have cleaned the flue over the years with chain and brushes.
I tried to use a heavy metal sign post on a chain to break through but no luck.
There is a cleanout access just below the flue. The chimney is about 22 ft from top to cleanout.
Appears to be blocked around 18 ft from top.

 

The blockage appears to be the dreaded level 3 creosote as it is tar like.

 

Holy cow...I might have to think about this one a lil bit!

 

Man...a pro sweep might be the answer here...cuz I'm having bad thoughts, like a match and FD on standby

 

Guessing the block to be about 18" thick and is really stuck. As mentioned, I contacted a sweep for help

 

Might be better off calling a plumber with cutter head on rotary this time of year, than a sweep ?

 

I’m surprised it hasn’t self cleaned already. I have a tall chimney and use the flexible rods and brush from the top. I’m wondering if you could fasten a chipping tool to the end of the sectional rods and go at it from the top. Maybe Lowe’s, HD, or Ace would have chimney cleaning rods in stock.

 

Are you sure your liner hasn’t crapped out & collapsed/busted ???

Maybe find someone with a bore scope, plumber/electrician, feed that in for a look see.

Sure hope you get it knocked out & get to burning again.

Keep us updated & include some pics if possible.

 

That thought crossed my mind too...

 

Jimbear beat us to it. I have seen liners crumble and stop up a chimney,too. They also can partially block the airflow and it causes buildup where it normally wouldnt be a problem.

 

Anyone have a small camera snake you use/borrow to confirm the blockage?

I recently picked up a super cheap one off Amazon that was very good.

If confirmed is creosote, cherry bomb, m-60, m-80? Of course just j/k!

 

Are we positive you don't have a raccoon in there?

 

A fire would confirm...burning coon stinks!

 

He may be encased in creosote. I've had some bad 'sote in the past, but never a blockage.

Presence of chimney cap will answer my question.

 

No sure what to expect. It was drafting poorly and as I attempted to clean it I found the blockage.
The small amount of crud in the cleanout was a tar like creosote. I suspect a chunk of it dislodged and packed it shut.
I wish there was something (non-flammable) I could pour down the chimney to dissolve or loosen the block. Maybe the sweep has an idea

 

They make chemicals that eat away at it. Not cheap but my sister had a pro sweep do that for hers.

 

This is my first BIG problem in the 40 years I've been burning wood.
Thanks for all the input!