Chimney Sweep Guide | Safety, Maintenance and Who We Recommend

Why Should You Have Your Chimney Swept Regularly?

If you’re burning wood at home, whether it’s in a log burner, stove, or open fire, keeping your chimney clean and well-maintained is just as important as using properly seasoned logs. Now that our good friend Alex from Embers & Iron is a fully qualified and insured chimney sweep, we thought it was the perfect time to share some advice on keeping your stove safe, efficient, and ready for the colder months.

Meet Alex from Embers & Iron

“Hey! I’m Alex, Owner of Embers & Iron Woodstove and Chimney Sweeps.

I pride myself on servicing all types of Wood burning stoves and open fires in and around the Sevenoaks, Tonbridge, Tunbridge Wells, Southborough and Hildenborough areas.

I’m genuinely passionate about all aspects of fireplace and flue safety and efficiency.

I carry out full inspections and servicing of your appliance, including CCTV checks of the lined or unlined chimney, thorough sweeps using the Power Sweep method - proven to remove up to 6 x more build up from wood burning.

I’m clean and conscientious, giving as much care and detail to your appliance as I do my own.

I have also long been a customer of Sevenoaks Firewood, and have been burning their products in my own stoves for several years now - the quality is second to none.

For any questions you may have - please feel free to contact me on 07540 616420.

I look forward to hearing from you!”

How Often Should You Have Your Chimney Swept?

Most sweeps recommend having your chimney cleaned at least once a year if you burn wood regularly, and ideally twice a year if you use your stove daily through winter. A good time to book is before the start of the burning season in autumn and again in spring once the season ends, ensuring everything is safe, clear, and ready for next time.

If you only use your fire occasionally, a single annual sweep before lighting your first fire of the season is usually enough. Alex can advise on the best schedule for your appliance and usage.

Why It’s So Important

Every time you light a fire, soot, ash, and creosote (a sticky tar-like residue) begin to form inside the flue. Over time, this build-up can restrict airflow, harm efficiency, and significantly increase the risk of fire. Regular sweeping helps to:

• Prevent chimney fires by removing flammable creosote deposits

• Improve draw and efficiency so your stove burns hotter and cleaner

• Reduce smoke and unwanted odours in your home

• Extend the life of your flue liner and stove components

• Protect against harmful fumes, including carbon monoxide, entering your room

Repairs and Maintenance

A good chimney sweep doesn’t just clean your chimney. They also check key components to keep your stove running safely and at its best. This includes:

• Checking door rope seals to ensure they’re airtight and not letting excess air into the stove

• Inspecting fire bricks and baffles for cracks or damage that could affect airflow and stove protection

• Cleaning the flue collar and connecting pipe to prevent blockages that restrict draw or cause smoke spillage

• Advising on fuel choice, recommending properly dried hardwood logs like our kiln-dried ash, oak, or birch for a cleaner, hotter burn

• Spotting early signs of wear and tear such as cracks in the flue liner, corrosion, or loose fittings

• Re-seating flue joints or replacing worn seals to improve efficiency, reduce fuel consumption, and extend the life of your stove

The Dangers of Not Sweeping

While it may not seem urgent, failing to sweep your chimney can create serious hazards. Creosote is extremely flammable, and even a thin layer can ignite under high temperatures, leading to a chimney fire that may spread to the roof or loft space. Blockages caused by soot or nesting birds can also force dangerous gases, including carbon monoxide, back into your home.

Regular sweeping gives you peace of mind that your stove is performing as it should and, most importantly, that your home and family are safe.

Book Your Sweep

If you’re based in Sevenoaks, Tonbridge, or Tunbridge Wells, we highly recommend getting in touch with Alex from Embers & Iron on 07540 616420.