Safety and efficiency
Tips to follow on general fire and chimney safety:
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Never burn wood that contains more than 20% moisture.
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Always burn the recommended fuels for your particular fire or appliance.
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Don't leave open fires unattended without the use of an appropriate fire guard.
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Use smoke and carbon monoxide alarms.
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Have your chimney swept regularly by a member of The Guild of Master Sweeps.
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Keeping your chimney clean will ensure maximum efficiency from fuel and appliance and minimise the risk of a chimney fire. The primary causes of chimney fires are not having your chimney swept or cleaned regularly, the burning of unseasoned wet wood, improper appliance sizing when purchased and overnight or smouldering wood for long periods in stoves.
Sweeping frequency
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These frequencies are simply a guide and are based on the minimum recommended.​​​
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Smokeless coals: At least once a year
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Wood: Up to four times a year
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Bituminous coal: Twice a year
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Oil: Once a year
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Gas: Once a year​​​
MANY INSURANCE COMPANIES WILL NOT PAY OUT FOR FIRE DAMAGE IF CAUSED BY AN UNSWEPT CHIMNEY
As a member of The Guild of Master Sweeps I am a professional chimney sweep meeting the industry standards, therefore I am required to issue a valid certificate on completion of sweeping. This certificate is recognised by insurance companies.
