When should I get my fireplace or stove swept?
The type of fuel you use, and the frequency, will affect when you should have your chimney or stove swept. The following is recommended:
- Burning wood or household bituminous coal - swept at least twice per year (but ideally every 3 months whilst you are using it daily)
- Burning smokeless fuels - swept at least once per year
- Oil or gas appliances - swept at least once per year, with an additional safety check by a Gas Safe / OFTEC technician (as appropriate).
Your chimney should always be swept before the start of the season if you know it needs doing. Do not take the risk of leaving it!
Why should I get my fireplace or stove swept?
A clean and clear chimney is essential for your safety, the longevity of your chimney system, reducing the environmental impact, and the impact on your wallet!
- Removing tarry deposits significantly reduces the risk of a chimney fire.
- A chimney sweep can identify if there is 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 deposits can combine with condensation in the flue to form acidic compounds that can corrode your chimney liner over time.
10 top tips for chimney safety & efficiency
- Know how your stove operates! Find out how to control the air flow effectively.
- Ensure there is enough oxygen for the fire and for you. Keep the room well ventilated at all times.
- Use seasoned wood with a moisture content below 20%. This aids combustion and reduces the build up of tar.
- Use enough wood to maintain a good temperature, but without causing overheating.
- Look for a bright blue flame; this represents complete combustion.
- Check if your chimney is billowing smoke. If it is, your stove is not hot enough and needs more air flow.
- Keep an eye out for excess condensation. If your chimney is blocked, then water may be held in the stove.
- Safely dispose of ashes on a regular basis.
- If you're feeling light-headed near the fire, increase the room's ventilation! This could be a sign of the presence of carbon monoxide.
- TEST IT TUESDAY! Test your smoke alarm and CO alarm every week.
How is carbon monoxide produced?
Combustion relies on 3 components: a fuel source, heat, and oxygen. This reaction produces energy, carbon dioxide and water. The by-products are harmless, and if any of these 3 sources are removed, the fire will go out.
If any of these elements are compromised, then combustion may be incomplete. When this happens, carbon monoxide (CO), carbon, and water are produced. Carbon monoxide is a colourless, odourless, gas and can be fatal.
When your chimney operates at an optimal temperature, with a clear exhaust pathway, the hot air rises and creates a pressure differential in the flue. Cold air is drawn in, and the products of combustion are pushed up and away from your house. The oxygen from the cold air increases the combustion effect as it rushes in past the fuel, and the cycle continues. This is why sufficient ventilation is critical for operating efficiently and safely. A blocked exhaust pathway, or a fire that is not hot enough, may result in carbon monoxide moving back down the chimney and into the room.
ADDITIONAL SAFETY INFORMATION & ADVICE
Discover the Burnright Campaign
HETAS Carbon Monoxide (C0) Advice
HETAS Carbon Monoxide (C0) Advice
The Burnright website has a wealth of useful information for homeowners on what materials to burn, how and why.
HETAS Carbon Monoxide (C0) Advice
HETAS Carbon Monoxide (C0) Advice
HETAS Carbon Monoxide (C0) Advice
Read this digital leaflet about how to protect yourself and your home from Carbon Monoxide.