- Only burn firewood and kindling. builders scraps, painted, treated or any varnished wood releases chemicals into air and is not very healthy to inhale in your home.
- Only burn dry, seasoned wood, logs that have been split, stacked, and dried for at least 12 months. If possible cover your log pile on top, but leave the sides open for air to flow through. Do not store in a shed thinking they will dry.
- Remember different types of wood give off different levels of heat, softwoods make great fire wood and are generally cheaper than hardwoods although they burn quicker you can always add a hardwood log to keep it going.
- A clean stove or fire will ensure your appliance will get warmer and for longer. Remove any unwanted soot and clean it on a regular basis as even a few layers will reduce the efficiency.
- Check and replace any poor or damaged seals to better control your stove and prevent over firing.
- If you burn wood ,then get your chimney swept regularly, about twice a year will do the trick but if you burn plenty of wood you may need to sweep more often.
- Chimney cowls can prevent unwanted debris and rain from falling into your chimney, so getting a cowl can be beneficial. When choosing a cowl ensure it is suitable for the fuel you intend to burn.
- Lighting the wood in your stove from the top is normally better as the wood stove will reach its operating temperature quicker; the gases will burn better and will last longer. It is best to build the fire slowly, add more wood as it heats; this is the safest and correct way to burn a fire. If you have fire, keep any damper completely open to increase draw in the early stages.
- Safety is very important so always install carbon monoxide detectors in any room with a fire or stove and smoke alarms in other rooms.
If you need any further advice on chimney sweeping in Devon or information regarding your stove or open fire contact ProSweep-Professional Chimney Sweep on 01626 832051