Why it's not good to slumber your stoves!

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Slumbering is when an appliance is purposely set at a low or minimum output normally for overnight burning or for a long period of time to be revived in the morning or later in the day without the need for relighting. 

There are problems associated with using an appliance for extended periods at low output especially if the appliance is not designed to operate in this way. 

Running an appliance at low outputs can lead to incomplete combustion, especially when burning a high volatile content fuel such as wood logs. This leads to the formation of sooty and/or dry deposits on the flue lining as well as increased levels of carbon monoxide and particulates.

when appliances are used at low output for extended periods of time the temperature of the chimney reduces and there is a tendency for the products of combustion to also be lower in temperature which will lead to an increased likelihood of condensation forming in the chimney. The condensation together with deposit in the flue that are acidic risk the corrosion of metallic components like the stove, and flue flexi liner etc. 

Flexi liners whilst being easier to install and replace are not designed to last the life of the building, but may if used correctly last in excess of 10 years. If slumbering coal or logs for a long period of time this can cause corrosion and damage a line in less than a few years.  

The efficiency and life expectancy of any chimney is dependent upon correct use and maintenance. Masonry and pre-cast chimney products – whilst usually offering long life and high resistance to risk of corrosion – tend to involve more installation work when compared with metallic chimney systems.

More information fond here on the HETAS Site 

Here at Sean The Sweep we strive to offer a reliable friendly chimney sweep service located on the Wirral. Ensuring that your chimney is safe and efficient, I use the latest power sweeping and manual equipment/techniques along with the latest camera technology and to clean and inspect your log burners, multi fuel stoves, open fires and chimneys. I pride myself on delivering a high quality, friendly, clean and hassle free service to my customers. 

• HETAS Approved 
• Sweep Certificate Provided 
• Fully Insured 

 The main reason to have your chimney swept at least annually is safety. Over time, creosote, soot and builds up within the chimney. If not removed it can ignite leading to a chimney fire

•  Improved draft and efficiency 

A clear chimney is more efficient, as creosote and soot build up it narrows the flue and causes a obstruction, obstructing the smooth flow of smoke and gases leaving your appliance. Sweeping your chimney regularly guarantees it will be running at its best. 

•  Prolong life of the Chimney/liner 

 Taking regular care of your chimney or liner will extend its lifespan, the accumulation of creosote, soot, sulphur along with weather elements can accelerate the wear and tear of your chimney. 

•  Compliance with your house insurance policy

Some insurance policies require proof of regular chimney maintenance and sweeping. By adhering to an annual sweeping schedule and keeping records of the service via a sweep certificate, you ensure that your home insurance remains valid and fully covers potential damages that may arise in the worst case. 

•  Reduce smoke and Odours

Keeping your chimney clear of any deposits or debris will help with any odours

Due to a build-up of soot, creosote, and other flammable substances, an unswept chimney is a fire risk. Lighting your fire with an unswept chimney puts you in danger and can have devastating consequences. The CO gases that occur with any burning fire must be able to escape through the chimney to keep your property safe. Not sweeping your chimney can cause blockages, leading to highly dangerous gases re-entering the room. 

Sweeping a chimney greatly increases the safety of your appliance by ensuring harmful gases can escape and no flammable materials stick around in your chimney

Yes we supply a certificate to prove the sweep has been completed, at times we also may have to issue warning notices if the appliance is deemed unsafe.  

This certificate will help you comply with your home insurance policy.

Regular chimney inspections are important to detect any potential issues before they become major problems. We provide comprehensive chimney inspections to identify any issues and recommend the best solutions.

 Yes we are fully insured for the work carried out. We have full liability insurance, including employee liability insurance to cover any incident.

If a fault occurs during sweeping, this is not the fault of the sweep; for a chimney and items connected to the installation to be considered fit for use, it must be in such condition that it can be safely cleaned and tested. If damage is caused during sweeping, this suggests an underlying fault which simply was exposed by the sweeping process.