In the UK, chimneys and fireplaces can be found inside the majority of the homes as coal fuelled fires were necessary for all aspects of life. With modern technology and the introduction of electricity in the households, chimneys tend to be reserved for a winter heating effect only as we no longer require them for cooking and bathing. Regardless of this, the team here at Sooty and Swept have put together a list of benefits of having your chimney swept…

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• Having a clean chimney means that it will work much more efficiently in the long run compared to trying to use a dirty chimney. A chimney which hasn’t had all the build up inside removed means that all the smoke won’t be filtered out of your home, leaving some behind and thus causing a potential health risk.

 

• As we mentioned briefly above, the main role of a chimney is to remove unwanted gases and smoke out of your home which are let off from the fuel you burn. Allowing creosote to build up on the walls very thickly can cause them to become flammable which poses the risk of a potential chimney fire.

 

• A clean chimney means that it will be very safe to use for much longer and its working life will be increased as a professional is more likely to spot any issues with your chimney before they become unsolvable.

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Having your chimney swept should be done at least once a year at the minimum in order to ensure that the health of individuals and pets is looked after.

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The facts about carbon monoxide poisoning...

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Carbon monoxide is an odourless and colourless gas that claims the lives of just under 100 people every year. These are lives that can be spared if we all know how to recognise the signs, symptoms and safety measures necessary when it comes to dealing with carbon monoxide. Here is the lowdown on everything you need to know…

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Where is carbon monoxide found?

Carbon monoxide can be found in the fumes that are created any time you burn a source of fuel. This includes cars, lanterns, fireplaces and furnaces. It is possible for the gas to build up indoors when there is no way for it to escape, thus poisoning people and animals.

What are the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning?

The most common symptoms include headache, dizziness, chest pain, vomiting, confusion and weakness. They are often said to resemble the flu. Breathing in a lot of CO can cause people to pass out which is why people who are sleeping may succumb to the poisoning before they present symptoms.

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How can you prevent carbon monoxide poisoning?

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• Have a battery operated CO detector inside the home so that you can detect the presence of carbon monoxide before it harms anyone, which can be fitted by us upon request.

• Remember to have all gas, oil and coal operated systems and appliances serviced by qualified and practiced professionals at least once a year.

• Never burn charcoal indoors. Despite what people think, coal and charcoal are not interchangeable materials and burning charcoal indoors, whether it be red, grey, black or white, will give off high levels of CO.

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Here at Sooty and Swept, the safety of our customers and clients is paramount when it comes to carbon monoxide poisoning. Simply having your chimney swept often helps to limit the risks of this occurring as its removes any build-up of soot or debris inside the chimney, allowing dangerous gases like CO to escape.

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Our Top 3 Tips for new homeowners with a chimney

 

We’ve often get calls from new homeowners across Brighouse, Halifax and Huddersfield who want their chimney sweeping. They’ve recently moved into houses that already have stoves and open fires in them and want to make sure they maintain them properly. So, we thought we’d share our top three tips for new homeowners who have never had to look after a working chimney before…

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1. Inspect the firebox

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The firebox is the part of an open fireplace where flames are contained. It has a large opening at the top which allows gases to escape up into the flue (the inside of the chimney). Use a torch to look around and check for any cracks at the opening. If there are any chunks of mortar missing or the back wall is sagging it’s time to call in the professionals.

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2. Get the chimney swept

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A house which has just been sold may have been empty for a while and so there are some important points to consider. It is impossible to tell when the chimney was last swept correctly and there may also be animals (e.g. birds, bats and squirrels) or a build-up of dust inside the flue. Not removing either of these can lead to a potential chimney fire and other hazards, so it’s good advice to get your chimney swept when you move into a new property.

 

3. Get a chimney cowl

 

If your chimney pot hasn’t got a cowl, then it’s definitely a good idea to get one. It will prevent rain from coming down your chimney and will also stop nesting animals from entering it which can, in the long run, cause unnecessary problems and expense. No-one wants to find a sooty bird flying around their living room!

 

We’re always happy to give advice so if you have any questions please give us a call or send us a message.