Bat in Chimney
Q: Jason, We rent a very old house (150yr+). We are not sure how well the top has been capped. And we don’t think the damper works very well. I have had a bat in the house the last two years. I assume they have come in through the chimney. Absolutely hate this more than the drafting!! Do you think a Chimney Balloon will help? – JT
A: Dear JT, Chimney Balloons are used all the time by Chimney Sweeps and Animal Mitigation to keep out bats, bugs, and birds from coming in through the fireplace flue. If used correctly Chimney Balloons are quite effective at bat blocking. Bats are sneaky little critters so here are a few tips to use your Chimney Balloon to keep them out.
- When you size up your Chimney Balloon go for one that is a few inches over-sized in both width and depth. This will ensure that when it is installed there will be no gaps at all in any corner or crevice.
- When you install the Chimney Balloon inflate it as tight as you can with lung power. Normally I don’t recommend that you inflate a Chimney Balloon this tight, but bats can try to creep past the Chimney Balloon if it is too loose, so don’t give them any slack to play with.
If you have any questions about sizing up your application feel free to call the helpline 608-467-0229. – Jason