Tips For Keeping Your Fireplace Well Maintained
Between professional sweeps there is useful work you can do yourself.
Burn dry, seasoned wood. Wet wood makes smoke, smell and creosote. Keep a clear hearth. Do not store kindling in the fireplace opening. Have the chimney swept at least once a year — more often if you burn wood heavily.
Look at the pot from the garden after windy weather. If you see birds going in and out, do not light the fire. Fit a working carbon monoxide alarm in the same room.
If the glass blacks quickly, the stove may be running too cool or the fuel is damp. We can advise on the next visit.