Chimney sweeping?

[buzzbuzzfly]

Hi all - can I ask those of you who own a long burner/multi fuel stove about maintenance…

I bought a house with a multi fuel stove around 5 years ago & used it as a wood burner a bit the first year or so (ie I lit maybe 20 fires, just wood, but stopped bothering as it doesn’t actually generate much heat)

I know it can burn smokeless coal as well (some was left by previous owners, & they were burning this when I came to view, it was HOT, much more so than wood)

With the current ‘be prepared’ it seems that buying some wood/smokeless coal is a good idea

Previous owners had the chimney swept before they left - do I need to get it done before using the chimney again? (I’d only use it if we have a power cut, & don’t want to spend if I don’t need to).

Thanks so much for:)

Yes it should be done annually, preferably at the end of the burning season - which for me is around March/April as it’s easier for the crud build up to be dislodged by the sweep. You will need the certificate from the chimney sweep for insurance purposes. So keep it safe!
i would get yours done - it also keeps the chimney safe/clear of unexpected birds nests general crap they may drop down it/other infestations eg wasp nests.
A chimney fire is not something you want to experience - ditto carbon monoxide poisoning.
My sweep also checks for any damage, necessary repairs etc that I may not have noticed and makes sure they are fixed.

Yes, definitely get it swept before using. The annual sweep is also a safety check.

Thank you both - the previous owners left a certificate so hopefully I can find it & call that person

I was hoping I didn’t need to spend on this but it sounds like I do!

It needs to be done annually for your house insurance in case of chimney fire,

It’s important to do it, and the cost is small compared to the peace of mind, and knowing you are safe.

I didn’t realise this about the insurance so it has been VERY helpful to get that info - thank you

sweeping is crucial.

you probably know this anyway but :

check chimney has a liner and always have a carbon monoxide alarm.

never burn wet or unseasoned wood as it will damage your stove and can produce harmful particulates.

properly laid wood fires usually produce intense heat
, but lasts for a shorter time than coal. Use the air controls to control the burn . If you are getting little heat at all, that’s a problem.

look up the proposed changes to legislation re multi fuel and log burners

Great advice

One thing to add don't burn wood that's been painted, treated with wood persevere and definitely don't burn pallet wood despite what YouTube videos say. They leave particles and tar in the chimney which is what causes chimney fires...not a pleasant experience.

Not after 20 fires

We have ours swept annually and get the certificate, but we have the fire on daily in the winter so its used a lot

Our house insurance has never asked if we have a wood burner.

We have ours swept in August usually. We have to send out certificate to the insurer for our thatch insurance.

Its only £60 or £70 though. And best to do it for peace of mind.

After 20 fires and 5 years of inactivity, it absolutely should be swept and checked.

Don’t forget it’s good luck to touch a sweep! (Usually a handshake).