Investing in a chimney sweep is vital to your and your family's safety. This video guide shows you what’s involved in chimney sweeping and what to look for.
When using a solid fuel appliance and burning coal or ovals, you must use it safely. Misuse of an appliance or improper maintenance can have potentially life-threatening implications. Most issues with an appliance are highly preventable through the maintenance of your appliance correctly.
One of the most straightforward steps to prevent problems is to ensure that your appliance is regularly swept and cleaned. The modern chimney sweep process is extremely clean. The fireplace is masked off to prevent any dust or soot from entering the room, and sheets are used to protect carpets and furniture. The chimney sweep typically begins the process only once these measures are in place.
When using fuel, materials can be built in the flue if the fire does not burn efficiently. These deposited materials can build up over time and cause a chimney fire. Chimney fires burn extremely hot, often reaching temperatures up to 1200°C. Chimney sweeping regularly removes this explosive build-up, ensuring hot air and gasses can proceed through the chimney safely. Once swept, the improved draft through the appliance significantly improves fuel efficiency. This reduces further build-up and helps to maximise the fuel you have purchased.
During the chimney sweep, any other blockages that may exist within the chimney can be found. Materials such as birds' nests or loose bricks are common and can obscure the chimney space. These obstacles can block the up-draft of the chimney. When fuels burn, this can cause gases to enter the room instead of being pulled through the flue and out of the property.
Is there any chance I’ve heard about possibly carbon monoxide coming into the room? Is that possible?
Yes, it is. If a chimney fire damages the chimney, gaps can form in the joints. This allows smoke to enter the cavity wall or the upstairs rooms. This could be deadly for someone sleeping in an upstairs room.
Because of carbon monoxide?
Yes exactly.
The best time to have your chimney swept is just before winter begins. This way, you can keep warm throughout winter, safe knowing everything is in good working order.
How Often Should You Have Your Chimney Swept?
The fire service recommends sweeping at least once a year for all chimneys, including gas fires.
Coal: Every 6 months
Smokeless fuel: Once a year
Wood: Every 3 months
Once cleaned, your chimney sweep should provide a numbered and dated receipt certifying that the appliance has been swept. This certificate can be useful for house insurance, should anything go wrong.
Is it the same frequency for smokeless fuel or bituminous coal?
Smokeless fuel needs it less frequently. The recommended intervals are coal, six months, smokeless fuel, once a year and burning wood you are supposed to sweep it every three months.
Once cleaned, you should receive a numbered and dated receipt certifying that your appliance has been swept. This can be useful for house insurance should anything go wrong.
Finding a Local Chimney Sweep
Here at HouseFuel, we know how important finding a chimney sweep is. Regular chimney sweeping ensures your fire remains efficient and helps avoid dangerous chimney fires.
HouseFuel has designed a helpful guide to help you find a reputable chimney sweep that covers your area. Each chimney sweep we recommend is part of the National Association of Chimney Sweeps (NACS) or the Guild of Master Chimney Sweeps. These professional bodies have strict guidelines and assessments for their members, so you can be confident that your chosen sweep works to the highest standards.
Your chimney sweep can also carry out a wide range of maintenance, from bird nest removal to chimney repairs. With so many sweeps available, our recommendations give you peace of mind when choosing someone you can trust.
The Best Time to Book a Chimney Sweep
The ideal time to have your chimney swept is just before winter begins. This way, you can keep warm throughout the colder months knowing everything is in safe working order.
Stay Safe with Regular Chimney Sweeping
A professional chimney sweep plays a vital role in keeping your home safe, efficient, and ready for winter. From preventing fires to reducing carbon monoxide risks, sweeping is a small step that has a big impact. By choosing a qualified sweep from trusted groups like NACS or the Guild of Master Chimney Sweeps, you can be sure the job is done well.
Don’t wait until it’s too late, book your chimney sweep regularly and enjoy safe, worry-free heating. For more advice on solid fuel, safety tips, or to speak to our expert team, contact HouseFuel today.
