The Importance of Chimney Sweeping

The Defra Clean Air Strategy was launched back in 2018. We’ve previously covered some key elements of the strategy and what it means for our industry, this included the popular ‘Ban on wood stoves’ article which has been shared widely on social media. Check out the articles in the following links:

Defra’s Clean Air Strategy

Ban on wood stoves | the truth of it all

Defra’s Clean Air Strategy summarises actions to reduce emissions from domestic burning, clearly identifying there is no intention to ban wood burning stoves.

• Legislate to prohibit sale of the most polluting fuels.
• Ensure that only the cleanest stoves are available for sale by 2022.
• Give new powers to local authorities to take action in areas of high pollution, bringing legislation into the 21st century with more flexible, proportionate enforcement powers.
• Work with industry to identify an appropriate test standard for new solid fuels entering the market.
• Ensure that consumers understand what they can do to reduce their impact from burning.

This month we focus on the importance of chimney sweeping and appliance maintenance within the strategy. HETAS has been liaising with Defra for some time encouraging Defra to engage with the chimney sweeping associations on this important issue.

In the recent ‘Call for Evidence’ it was identified to Defra that “chimney sweeps highlighted the point that how a stove is used can have a significant impact on emissions.” The strategy also goes on to state “The stove, fuel and chimney sweep industries have been proactive in recognising the benefits to them and their customers from promoting those fuels, stoves and actions which will reduce air quality impacts. This is making it easier for consumers to understand the benefits of cleaner fuels, appliances and chimneys.”

 On the importance of chimney sweeping and the role of professional chimney sweeps the strategy says “The way in which we use our stoves can have a big impact on air quality and how long the chimney and stove will last. A local professional sweep can help consumers get it right, ensuring that they get the most from their stoves and provide advice on optimum operation. This can help save money and avoid chimney fires.”

The proactive approach from the industry includes the Ready to Burn scheme and the Burnright campaign. Burnright was launched in March 2018 and is a chimney sweep led campaign. In July 2018 representatives from the Association of Professional Independent Chimney Sweeps (APICS), the Guild of Master Chimney Sweeps, the Institute of Chimney Sweeps (ICS) and the National Association of Chimney Sweeps (NACS) met and pledged their support for the Burnright campaign. HETAS fully supports this approach from the associations and is hopeful this will drive this sector of our industry forward.