chim chim cheree
The term ‘Chimney sweep’ may conjure up images of small, Dickensian type characters covered in soot, scrambling up enormous chimneys, and we might ask ourselves if there is really a need for this ancient trade in today’s modern world with its gas fi res and centrally heated properties. Well, the short answer to that is ‘Yes!’ Even chimneys serving gas fi res need cleaning on a regular basis – and if you are one of the growing number of householders returning to the cosy, romantic comfort of a traditional coal or log fi re, it is essential that you spend a little time and money ensuring that your fi replace is functioning both safely and effi ciently.
As a fi re burns, it releases numerous gases up the chimney which escape into the atmosphere. As they pass through the chimney, soot - which contains a fl ammable substance called
creosote - begins to
accumulate on the walls. Over time, these deposits can begin to obstruct and eventually completely block the chimney, which could lead to an ineffi cient and potentially unsafe fi replace and the risk of chimney fi res. This is why regular cleaning of a chimney is essential.
Although it is possible to clean the chimney yourself, you might prefer instead to hire a professional chimney sweep to do this tiring, messy job! In addition to cleaning the chimney, he or she will check for other problems which might lead to chimney fi res
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or ineffi cient burning, and will also inspect your chimney for potential problems from the roof.
A chimney that serves an open fi re should be swept at least once a year, after a period of prolonged disuse (for example at the end of the summer) , and also at the end of the heating season to ensure that it is clear of animal nests and is prepared for the idle period. Chimneys that are used frequently may need cleaning more often, whilst those serving gas fi res less often.
A visit to the National Association of Chimney Sweeps or Guild of Master Chimney Sweeps websites will help you locate a local, reliable chimney sweep. These two organisations have worked together over recent years to introduce a National Code of Practice for Chimney Sweeps, designed to protect the public
from untrained or poorly trained
sweeps. Sweeps meeting the Standard are required to issue an Industry Standard certifi cate (the Standard being printed on the reverse) and where necessary, an Industry Standard Warning Notice and Label.
A sweep typically takes around 45 minutes and costs around £40 per chimney, though this can vary according to location and the diffi culty of the job. Before employing anyone to carry out the work, please check that they have full public liability insurance.
To advertise in thewire t. 07720 429 613 e.
the.wire@btinternet.com
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