STAY SAFE AND BOOK A CHIMNEY INSPECTION TODAY
The team at Cornwall Chimney Services are on hand to keep your chimney in safe working order. Get in touch with our team for a free quotation for customers in Truro and Cornwall.
Why have your chimney swept?
How often?
Frequency will depend on a number of factors which include the type of fuel used, appliance, duration of use, moisture content of wood fuel and the type of chimney you have. Your Chimney Sweep will be able to advise on the sweeping frequency during the appointment. The sweeping frequencies below are for guidance purposes only:
- 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
Will it cause a mess?
Chimney Sweeps are very mindful and conscious of making as little mess as possible and are in fact trained in the prevention of dust escaping during sweeping. However, there are exceptional circumstances e.g. if a chimney may be blocked with a bird’s nest, which make it difficult to guarantee that no mess will be made.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does gas/oil need to be swept?
Yes, although burning these fuels does not normally deposit soot, there are still numerous other problems which can affect chimney function which sweeping can solve or identify. It will also help with the prevention of chimney fires and even carbon monoxide poisoning.
Just moved house, do I need my chimney cleaned?
Yes, as you may not necessarily know when it was last cleaned properly by a professional chimney sweep.
Should I have my chimney swept before its closed off at end of season?
If a chimney is closed off, it can become damp. If there is soot in your chimney, then this soot can turn into a black acidic slurry that, in an old chimney, can soak into the internal walls causing severe problems. If the damp gets bad, then it can penetrate through the wall into the room where it will cause unpleasant stains on the walls.
What should I do if a bird has come down my chimney?
Seek the advice of your local NACS Chimney Sweep who will be able to advise you on a suitable terminal/guard for your chimney.
What is the best fuel to use?
For certain appliances there is a recommended fuel which is the one that should be used. In appliances where there are no such requirements, there are several things that need to be taken into consideration when selecting fuel. Wood that has been properly seasoned is commonly used as it is clean, gives good heat and is carbon neutral.
However, some people prefer using coal as it suits them better. If you are thinking of using coal, then we recommend you use a local approved coal merchant who will have the expert knowledge to guide you.
Please remember that some areas of the UK are smoke free zones, which must also be taken into consideration when selecting fuel.
Why do I need to see the brush out the top of the chimney?
NACS Chimney Sweeps normally show you this to demonstrate that the flue has been swept throughout its length.