Make sure your chimney is swept EVERY year before your first fire
IF YOU want to heat the home with an open fire seek expert guidance to ensure you are following the necessary safety and emission guidelines.
Even if you already have an open fire or wood burner you should not use it until it has been professionally cleaned in preparation for winter.
The National Association of Chimney Sweeps has more than 600 qualified members countrywide. It recommends that your chimney is swept at least once a year – with now being the ideal time just before you light the first fire of the winter.
Although you can save money if you have the necessary equipment to clean your own chimney, it is better to spend perhaps £50 for an expert to suck out all the soot and possible bird nests with the minimum of mess – and present you with a certificate that might be necessary for your insurer.
The Government body for approving domestic fuels, services and appliances is the
Heating Equipment Testing & Approval Scheme. Bruce Allen, chief executive, says: ‘It may seem like a hassle but following the regulations is not a boxticking exercise – it is about saving lives.
‘You should always get your chimney inspected by one of our registered installers or chimney sweeps. When looking at using a fireplace after a number of years or installing a wood burner you may need a chimney lined – giving it an extra inner skin. It is money well spent, ensuring you are safe.’
If a chimney has been left damp for a long time, acids in old soot can eat into the mortar and allow heat and fumes to spread to other rooms.
Fumes might contain the poisonous gas carbon monoxide so it is also important to ensure you have a carbon monoxide alarm and smoke detectors installed to alert you should there be any problems – sometimes your insurer will insist on it. A fire extinguisher on each floor is also recommended as a precaution.
An open fire can draw up to 17 cubic metres of air a minute so it is vital to ensure your home has the necessary ventilation to allow this.
Remember, if you do not tell your insurer about any changes or fail to follow their requirements then they are unlikely to pay out in the event of a fire.