This page is dedicated to answering the questions that many customers have when it comes to having their chimney swept and using it correctly.
Why do I need to have my chimney/flue swept?
Chimneys need to allow free passage of dangerous combustion gasses. Regular cleaning will remove soot and creosote, helping prevent dangerous chimney fires. Cleaning will increase the efficiency of some appliances. Bird nests, cobwebs and other blockages will be removed.
How often does my chimney need sweeping?
Frequency will depend on a number of factors including: Type of fuel, appliance used, duration of use, moisture content of wood fuel, type of chimney. I will be able to advise on sweeping frequency, the sweeping frequencies below are for guidance.
Smokeless fuel: At least once a year
Wood: Quarterly when in use
Bituminous coal: Quarterly when in use
Oil: Once a year
Gas: Once a year
Does it make mess?
This is a very good question to ask when booking any sweep. The answer should be – very rarely. I draw on the collective knowledge of the whole organisation and have a number of best practice techniques for preventing dust escapes. A rare exception may be when the chimney is blocked with a bird’s nest when it is sometimes difficult to contain all dust.
What should I do to prepare for the visit?
In general you will need a clear passage to the chimney and adequate space to work in. Clear ornaments from the hearth and perhaps from the mantelpiece. In particular, clear the grate of any fuel / ash / rubbish please.
How much does it cost to have my chimney swept?
£40 for a Coal Fire, £50 for a Multi Fire Stove and £50 for a Jetmaster
I’ve just moved house – do I need to have my chimney cleaned?
Yes! A chimney fire isn’t the kind of housewarming you want.
What is the best fuel to use?
For certain appliances, there is a recommended fuel, and this is the one you should use. In appliances where there are no such requirements, there are several things that need to be taken into consideration. As a general fuel we recommend wood. It is clean, gives good heat and is carbon neutral. However, at the end of the day, some people don’t get on with wood and find coal suits them better. If you are looking at coal, find your local approved coal merchant who will have the expert knowledge to guide you.
Why do I need to sweep a chimney before it is closed off?
If a chimney is closed off, it can get a bit damp. If there is and soot up there, then this soot can turn to a black acidic slurry that in an old chimney can soak into the internal walls causing severe problems. If bad enough this damp can penetrate through to the room where it will cause unpleasant stains on the walls.
Why are there smoke marks just above the fireplace?
This is because smoke is leaking back into the room; call me to seek advice.
A bird has come down my chimney, how do I stop this from happening again?
I will be able to advise you on a suitable terminal/guard for your chimney.