How to save money on a chimney sweep
Having your chimney swept is a necessity, regardless of how often you burn. Build-up of materials such as soot, a bird nest, or animal excrement can create hazards that lead to dangerous gases entering the property or a cause chimney fire.
Your chimney should be swept at least once a year when burning smokeless fuels and at least twice a year when burning wood fuel. This article includes cost-saving tips for your annual or bi-annual chimney sweep that will protect your wallet and your health.
How to easily reduce your chimney sweep costs
Burn correctly
Burning Ready to Burn wood with a moisture content of 20% or less will greatly reduce the pollutants and particulate matter (PM2.5) released and significantly decrease creosote build-up in your chimney. Burning wet wood is dangerous for your chimney, your health, and the environment – always make sure your wood has a moisture content of 20% or less.
Upgrading your log burner
If your stove has seen better days, the particle emissions being released into your chimney are likely much higher than modern appliances. Using a modern appliance greatly reduces the build-up of dangerous substances such as creosote and can save you money by having up to 90% higher efficiency when compared to older models.
Using your air control valves
Your log burner vents control the supply of oxygen into your stove. If your appliance comes equipped with controllable air control valves, understanding how to use these effectively can assist in a more efficient and less costly fire.
Do not slumber your stove
Slumbering your stove when your appliance is not specifically designed to do so can lead to incomplete combustion. A stove running at low output increases the likelihood soot deposits forming in your flue lining. This means that you will need your chimney swept more often to keep your property safe, increasing costs.
Can I sweep my own chimney?
Whilst it is possible to sweep your chimney yourself, it is highly advisable to entrust a HETAS Approved chimney sweep to complete the task. All HETAS Approved Chimney Sweeps come equipped with the necessary training, the correct equipment, and the documentation required to provide you with a quality service that keeps you and your property safe.
HETAS Approved Chimney Sweeps must hold public liability insurance cover of at least £2 million, appropriate indemnity and liability cover, risk assessments, and have a complaints procedure. When using a HETAS Approved chimney sweep, you have the peace of mind that they are trusted professionals that can safely sweep your chimney. This is especially relevant for installation in thatch properties.
Following a successful sweep, your HETAS Approved Chimney Sweep will provide you with a certificate. This certificate is evidence that your chimney has been professionally swept and can be used for insurance purposes, if required.
