As the days grow shorter and temperatures drop, many of us look forward to lighting the fire and enjoying the comfort of a real flame. But before you strike that first match, it’s important to make sure your chimney is ready for the season.
Why Chimney Sweeping Matters
A clean chimney isn’t just about keeping soot at bay, it’s about safety. Over time, deposits can build up inside your flue, and left unchecked, these residues can ignite and cause a chimney fire. Sweeping also clears obstructions like bird nests or leaves, ensuring smoke and fumes are safely drawn away from your home.
How Often Should You Sweep?
The National Association of Chimney Sweeps (NACS) recommends at least one sweep per year for most households, but the frequency depends on what you burn:
-
Smokeless fuels: At least once a year
-
Wood: Quarterly when in use
-
Bituminous coal: Twice a year
-
Oil & gas: Once a year
The Benefits of a Professional Sweep
Booking a registered chimney sweep means you’re choosing a trained professional who will do more than just remove soot. A full sweep ensures your flue is thoroughly cleaned of debris and blockages, while also checking your chimney and appliance for any potential safety issues. At the end of the visit, you’ll receive an industry-recognised certificate of sweeping, giving you peace of mind that your chimney is safe and ready for use.
Don't Leave It Too Late
Autumn is the busiest time of year for chimney sweeps, as households prepare for winter. Booking early ensures your chimney is safe, clean, and ready to use when the cold weather sets in.
So before you light your first fire this season, make sure your chimney has been swept. It’s a simple step that helps protect your home, your family, and your peace of mind.
Ready to Sweep? Don't Forget Your Fuel!
Once your chimney’s clear and safe, you’ll want high-quality fuel to make the most of that fire. Homefire offers options that combine performance with sustainability:
Smokeless fuel is cleaner, hotter, and longer-lasting than traditional house coal, making it the perfect choice for cosy fires with less mess. Producing minimal smoke and ash, it helps keep your chimney cleaner and your fire easier to manage, while also being suitable for Smoke Control Areas. Shop Smokeless Coal Fuel.
We love kiln-dried wood because it burns hotter, cleaner, and more efficiently than traditional logs. Dried to below 20% moisture and certified Ready to Burn, it lights easily, gives a long, bright flame, and produces less smoke and ash, keeping your stove or fireplace cleaner. Shop Kiln-Dried Firewood.
