A clean chimney allows gases, smoke and particles to escape your home safely and efficiently. Soot and creosote build up naturally with use and can restrict the flue, reduce draw and — in serious cases — cause chimney fires. Regular sweeping keeps your fire burning efficiently, saves you money on fuel and is often a requirement of your home insurance and stove warranty. 

 

HETAS recommend at least twice a year when burning wood or bituminous coal, and at least once a year when burning smokeless fuels. As a general guide, the best times are just before the start of the heating season in autumn and again after a prolonged period of non-use in spring. If you're unsure, give us a call and we'll advise based on your specific appliance and usage. 

 

Richard will place a protective dust sheet around the fireplace area and temporarily seal the opening to prevent soot entering the room. The chimney is then swept using traditional rod-and-brush methods or a modern rotary power sweeping system, depending on your flue type. On completion the area is thoroughly cleaned and hoovered. All that's left is the faint smell of soot! A certificate is then issued on the day. 

 

Yes — please make sure your fire or stove has been completely cold for at least 24 hours before your appointment. If the appliance is too hot to work on safely, a call-out charge will still apply. Please also clear the area around the fireplace and remove any items from the hearth so Richard has space to work. 

 

No. Richard takes great care to protect your home — dust sheets are laid, the flue is sealed during sweeping and everything is hoovered thoroughly before he leaves. The vast majority of our customers say the area is left cleaner than when he arrived! 

 

Creosote is a tar-like substance that builds up inside chimney flues when wood is burned — particularly wet or unseasoned wood. It is highly flammable and is a leading cause of chimney fires. Regular sweeping removes creosote deposits before they become a hazard.