It is a necessity to have your chimney swept, regardless of how often you use your appliance. There could be a build-up of soot, a bird nest, or animal excrement that can create hazards that lead to dangerous gases entering the property or cause a chimney fire.
How to easily reduce your chimney sweep costs
Burn correctly
When burning ‘ready to burn’ wood with a moisture content 20% or less will greatly reduce the pollutants and particulate matter released and significantly decrease creosote build-up in your chimney. It is dangerous for your chimney when you are burning wet wood, bad for your health and for the environment – always make sure your wood has a moisture content of 20% or less.
Upgrading your log burner
If your fireplace has seen better days, the particle emissions being released into your chimney are likely higher than modern appliances. When using a modern appliance, it can greatly reduce the build-up of dangerous substances such as creosote and can save you money by having up to 90% higher efficiency when compared to older models.
Using your air control valves
Your fireplace vents control the supply of oxygen into your stove. If your appliance comes equipped with controllable air valves, understanding how to use these effectively can assist in a more efficient and less costly fire.
Do not slumber your stove
When you slumber your stove, and it is not specifically designed to do so can lead to incomplete combustion. When a fireplace is running at a low output, it increases the likelihood of soot deposits forming in your flue lining. This would mean that you would need to have your chimney swept more often than usual to keep your property safe, increasing costs.
Can I sweep my own chimney?
There is a possibility that you can sweep your own chimney, but it is highly advisable to entrust a professional to do the job correctly. A certified professional comes equipped with the necessary training, correct equipment, and the documentation required to provide you with a quality service that keeps you and your property safe.
After a successful sweep, the technician will provide you with a certificate, as evidence that your chimney has been professionally swept and can be used for insurance purposes, if required.
