Log Burner- still any use?

[KDwasJ]

Hi

I've just moved into a new home and just wondering whether or not we can still use this log burner and what we need to do about it. The previous owner said they hadn't used it in years so I'm assuming it would likely need a service. Would I also need the chimney sweeping (and if so, how would they get into the chimney !?)

You absolutely would need the chimney sweeping. Access is through that little door on the front of the flue.

I would also get someone qualified in wood burners to check/service it and make sure it’s safe.

And I’d install a CO alarm.

Op there is sometimes an inspection hatch near the fire, the chimney sweep will access it through this. It does look old tbh

Looks like it’s been installed well, the sweep will be able to check the flue and do a smoke test, you should have a co monitor if not you will need one

they usually go in through the front of the burner with the brush - they will also clear out the burner and check it visually to make sure all the plates and baffles are present and correct

lovely!

Get the chimney swept, the sweep will perhaps be able to advise on the wood burner. the most common issues are the rope seals deteriorate and require replacing. The seal around the flue may also require repair or replacement, this is easily done with fire cement.

I should also add that it is a cast stove and does not actually look that old. We have a similar one. It probably is not DEFRA rated if that is an issue for you. the flue pipe will be removable and that is how the sweep will get to the chimney. Get the chimney swept, the rope seals replaced if required and any other issues dealt with and you will have yourself a nice little stove for heating water in a suitable kettle on, get a stove fan to circulate the heat around the room and you could even potentially cook a lovely stew in a dutch oven on it :D

You should be able to check online whether a hetas certificate is available (which will show whether it has been installed correctly). Not sure how old the scheme is, so it may not be helpful (also likely something your solicitor picked up during conveyancing?)

You def need a sweep and service from a registered person (and a CO alarm), though! Don't do anything before this as it's too risky.

You might also check with them whether it is actually legal to use in your area- some areas have clean air ordinances around log burners and fuels.

Get a HETAS qualified engineer to sweep it and check the flue/ vents comply with safety regs. You will need a heat/carbon monoxide alarm as well.

DO NOT USE IT until you have done this.

Your seller should have supplied a HETAS certificate or said there wasn’t one. As above re all advice on getting it checked. Also buy a carbon monoxide detector, they are £10..

Shouldn’t that fireplace be tiled? Or is the burner lined with fire bricks?

Thanks everyone, we are going to get someone out to have a look at it, fingers crossed we can get it working and then we'll make sure to get a carbon monoxide alarm.

It does need tiles, going to look into some heat resistant ones to stick around the inside - hopefully that will look ok!

My log burner hasn't got tiles. Like @OneForTheToad says the bricks are fire resistant ones.

Don't start sticking tiles up! Find out about the certificate and get it serviced.

You can rub the exterior with a bit of cooking oil to get rid of rust stains and marks and make it look brand new.

Thanks @GreatScruff I will leave it, we have someone coming next week to hopefully service it.

@Whataretalkingabout that's a great tip thank you!