FAQs
Chimney Sweeping & Wood Burner FAQs
How often should I have my chimney swept?
For most wood-burning stoves and open fires, I recommend at least once a year. If you burn a lot of wood, especially through the winter, twice a year is often sensible. Regular sweeping helps prevent chimney fires, improves appliance performance and keeps your flue working safely.
A clean chimney is a safe chimney. How often it needs sweeping varies widely — it depends on what you burn and how you burn it. The **Solid Fuel Association **guidance is a good starting point
- Wood — Every three months in use
- Smokeless coal — Once a year
- Coal — Never burn coal in a stove
- Artificial logs — Every three months in use
- Demolition timber — Every three months in use (Never burn painted, treated, or proofed timber)
Burning wet or green wood should be avoided wherever possible. It produces excess smoke, accelerates soot and creosote build up, and increases the risk of chimney fires.
If you’re unsure, the safest rule is simple: get it swept by a qualified chimney sweep there are 250 in the UK, 10 in the West of England but only one qualified Chimney Sweep in Bath - Swept Away
How much does chimney sweeping cost in Bath?
A standard Chimney Sweep and service check with an insurance industry recognised sweep certificate is £75, which is average for our area.
Do wood-burning stoves need sweeping if they're used regularly?
Yes. In fact, regular use often means more sweeping is needed. Burning wood creates soot and creosote deposits which build up inside the flue. These deposits can restrict airflow and increase the risk of a chimney fire.
How do I know if my chimney needs sweeping?
Common signs include poor draw, smoke entering the room, difficulty lighting fires, excessive soot deposits or unusual smells from the fireplace or stove. Even if none of these are present, annual sweeping is still recommended.
Can a blocked chimney cause carbon monoxide problems?
Absolutely. A blocked or damaged flue can prevent harmful gases from escaping safely. Carbon monoxide has no smell or colour, making it particularly dangerous. Regular sweeping and inspection help identify problems before they become serious.
What is creosote and why is it dangerous?
Creosote is a tar-like substance that forms when wood smoke cools inside the chimney. It's highly combustible and one of the leading causes of chimney fires. Professional sweeping removes these deposits before they become a problem.
What type of wood should I burn in my stove?
Always burn properly seasoned or kiln-dried wood with a moisture content below 20%. Wet wood produces more smoke, more soot and more creosote while delivering less heat.
How can I tell if my firewood is dry enough?
The best way is with a moisture meter. Firewood should generally be below 20% moisture content. Dry logs are lighter, often show cracks at the ends and produce a cleaner, hotter burn.
Do you issue chimney sweeping certificates?
Yes. Following a sweep, I can provide a certificate recognised by insurers and appliance manufacturers where required.
How long does chimney sweeping take?
Most chimney sweeps take around 45 minutes to an hour, although this varies depending on the appliance, chimney condition and whether a more detailed inspection is required.
Is chimney sweeping messy?
Not when it's done properly. I use professional equipment and dust-control methods to keep your home clean. Most customers are pleasantly surprised by how little mess there is.
Can birds nest in chimneys?
Yes, particularly during spring and early summer. Jackdaws are especially fond of chimney pots. A nest can completely block a flue and make a fireplace unsafe to use. If you suspect a blockage, don't light a fire until it's been checked.
Why does my wood burner glass keep turning black?
Usually it's caused by wet wood, poor airflow or burning the stove at too low a temperature. Using quality dry logs and operating the stove correctly will often keep the glass much cleaner.
What is a chimney liner and do I need one?
A chimney liner helps carry smoke and combustion gases safely from your appliance to the outside. Whether you need one depends on the condition of the chimney and the appliance being used. A professional inspection is the best way to determine what's required.
Can I sweep my own chimney?
You can, but most homeowners lack the specialist equipment and experience needed to identify developing faults. A professional sweep doesn't just remove soot – we're also looking for signs of damage, blockages, liner defects and potential safety issues.
Why choose Swept Away Chimney Sweep?
I'm a genuine local, fully qualified chimney sweep with NVQ qualifications and HETAS certification. With years of hands-on experience working on everything from listed cottages to modern stove installations, I believe in doing the job properly, giving honest advice and treating every home with care and respect.