When should I get my fireplace or stove swept?
The following is recommended:
- Burning wood - your fireplace should be swept quarterly when in use (which typically equates to twice per year). For example, if you use your fire regularly between October and March, then a sweep in January (mid-heating season) and April (post-season) is a sensible plan.
- Burning smokeless fuels - swept at least once per year
- Oil or gas appliances - swept at least once per year, with an additional safety and service check by a Gas Safe / OFTEC technician (as appropriate).
If you have moved into a new home, then we would always recommend getting your chimney swept before using it for the first time.
Why should I get my fireplace or stove swept?
A clean and clear chimney is essential for your safety and the longevity of your chimney system...
- Removing tarry deposits significantly reduces the fire risk
- A chimney sweep can identify any other foreign debris present (e.g. nest material).
- An efficient draught moves the products of combustion away from your house faster and reduces fire risk.
- An efficient air flow helps your chimney reach an optimum temperature faster, and reduces the chance of carbon monoxide production.
- Burning fuel efficiently produces less smoke and is more environmentally friendly.
- Burning fuel efficiently means you require less of it, which is cheaper for you!
- Tar can combine with condensation to form acidic compounds that can corrode your chimney liner over time.
Optimising the conditions for combustion
Combustion relies on a fuel source, heat, and oxygen. Remove any one of these components, and the fire will go out. The by-products of complete combustion (energy, carbon dioxide & water) are harmless.
To ensure complete combustion, we recommended you start your fire with plenty of dry kindling and some firelighters. Maximise your air flow and get the fire burning for at least 5 minutes before adding your first larger pieces of seasoned wood. When your chimney operates at an optimal temperature, the hot air will rise and create a significant pressure differential in the flue. This will draw in fresh cold air, and push the fire's exhaust up and away from your house. A fire that is not hot enough, may result in carbon monoxide moving back into the room.
A carbon monoxide alarm is your early warning system!
Carbon monoxide is a colourless, odourless, gas and can be fatal. It is produced when combustion is incomplete. This is typically due to a reduced air flow and not enough heat generation.
A reliable, audible, carbon monoxide alarm is THE ONLY way to detect this gas. It MUST be in an optimal position. We know they don't add much aesthetically, but you should never choose looks over safety!
This HETAS image shows where your alarm should be placed for maximum effectiveness. It is recommended to have a CO alarm in every room that the flue of your fireplace passes through.
Our Top 10 safety tips
- Have your chimney swept at least annually to remove blockages.
- Know how your stove operates! Find out how to control the air flow effectively.
- Ensure there is enough oxygen for both the fire and for you at all times! Keep the room well ventilated.
- Use seasoned wood with a moisture content below 20%. This aids combustion and reduces the build up of tar.
- Do not overfill the fire with wood. This can reduce the temperature.
- Look for a bright blue flame, this represents complete combustion.
- Check if your chimney is emitting smoke. If it is, your stove is not hot enough and needs more air flow.
- Keep an eye out for excess condensation. It may mean your chimney is blocked.
- Avoid slumber burning your stove overnight. A reduced temperature will create incomplete combustion.
- TEST IT TUESDAY! Test your smoke alarm and carbon monoxide alarm every week.