Do I need a chimney sweep?
If you have invested in a stove or have a fireplace in your home, one of the key responsibilities is to ensure it is well looked after and maintained. One area often overlooked in this process is the chimney. Not many people realise that they need to get a chimney sweep or understand the dangers it can cause if left for too long. In this blog, we discuss the key reasons you need a chimney sweep, how often you should sweep your chimney and the risks associated if left without care.
Why you need a chimney sweep
A chimney sweep is not just a character from a Dick Van Dyke film; they are professionals who ensure your chimney is clean and safe to use and comply with the regulations of The National Association of Chimney Sweeps. An unclean chimney can lead to a number of problems, including heating inefficiency, dangerous carbon monoxide leaks, and can sometimes lead to fires. A professional chimney sweep also looks at any other hazards you may be unaware of like repairs, cracks or leaks and ensure your log burner lasts longer through maintenance and care.
How often should you sweep your chimney?
According to The National Association of Chimney Sweeps, it’s recommended to have your chimney swept at least once a year if not twice per year if you are regularly using your stove. Regular sweeping ensures soot, bird nests, and any other blockages are removed that could impact the functionality of your chimney.
HETAS, a not-for-profit organisation and a regulatory body in the heating industry, also highly recommend having your chimney swept twice a year. They say “HETAS encourage having your chimney swept at least twice a year when burning wood and at least once a year when burning smokeless fuels.
The risks of not cleaning your chimney
One of the most significant risks of not cleaning your chimney is the buildup of creosote - a highly flammable substance formed when burning wood. Over time, creosote can accumulate on the walls of your chimney and when lit, it can cause a fire.
Signs your chimney needs sweeping
Knowing when your chimney needs sweeping can be tough if you're not sure what to look for. Often just looking at your chimney won’t be enough of an inspection to know whether it needs inspection or not. However, some of the more obvious signs include;
- Smoke spilling back into your room from the fireplace.
- There’s a burning smell when the fire is lit – even if it’s in another room.
- Soot appears to be falling into the fireplace.
- You’re finding it hard to light the fire and keep it going.
- Your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are regularly set off.
If you are experiencing some of the above signs, ensure to contact a chimney sweep professional to take a look as soon as you can. The National Association of Chimney Sweeps are a trusted source for advice and further information if you need help.
Hiring a chimney sweep is a necessary safety measure for all homeowners with a fireplace and/or stove. Regularly maintaining your chimney can prevent dangerous health hazards and fires. Don’t wait until it’s too late; schedule your chimney sweep today. For any further advice or guidance, contact our stove experts here!
- Carl Smith
