Are you ready for winter?
1. Inspect and Clean the Chimney
- Hire a Professional: Schedule a professional chimney sweep to remove last seasons build-up of soot and any obstructions such as bird nests, cobwebs or leaves. Find your local Sweep
- Check for Damage: Look for cracks, loose bricks, or deteriorating mortar that could pose a safety hazard. Consult with you Chimney Sweep to identify any issues and get them fixed.
2. Examine the Wood Burner or Fireplace
- Inspect the Firebox: Look for any cracks or damage that might need repair.
- Check Gaskets and Seals: Ensure the door seals are intact to maintain efficiency and control.
- Clean the Glass: If you need to clean black deposits regularly then the fuel is not burning correctly. Consult your sweep for the cause/s. Find your local Sweep
3. Stock Up on Firewood, Fuel and Kindling
- Choose Seasoned / Kiln Dried Wood: Whether you use wood that has been kiln dried or seasoned, it’s vital they the moisture content is 20% or less for efficient burning.
- Store Wood Properly Outside : Keep your firewood stacked in a dry, well-ventilated area to keep it dry and prevent mould.
- Store Wood Properly Inside : Keep your logs in a stack or basket inside your home at least 1/2 meter away from your wood burner or open fire.
- Fire Lighters and Kindling: 100% natural firelighters are best. Loo rolls with some paper in are a good option as are old egg cartons. Use plenty of small kindling and tinder when lighting the fire.
- Smoke Control Areas: Check to see if your property is in a smoke control area. This will determine the types of fuel that can be legally used. Smoke Control Area
4. Safety Checks
- Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Test a all detectors, and ensure they are within replacement date.
- Ash Disposal: Use a metal container (ideally with a lid for ash disposal) and store it outside, away from your home and any combustible materials. Wood ash is not a waste – there are several very good uses for ash: Wood Ash: What do you do with yours?
5. Efficient Burning Practices
- Kindling and Fire Starters: Use dry kindling / firelighters to ignite the fire instead of flammable liquids. Getting the fire to good operating temperature quickly will reduce start-up smoke.
- Airflow Management: Ensure proper airflow by adjusting any controls to maintain a steady efficient burn and reduce smoke. Take advice rom your local professional sweep.
6. Regular Maintenance
- Check Monthly: During the winter season, inspect and clean your fireplace or wood burner regularly to ensure it remains in top condition.
- Professional Servicing: Book in an annual service by a certified sweep to keep your wood burner or open fire running efficiently and safely.
7. Remind Yourself of the Best Burning Practices.
- Fire Safety Plan: Make sure everyone in your household knows how to safely operate the fireplace or wood burner and what to do in case of an emergency.
- Burn it Hot: Remember to operate your stove at a high enough temperature to ensure an efficient burn. Don’t ‘slumber’ your stove when burning wood. The appliance manufacturer will have some advice on correct fuels and operation.
- Keep it Clean: It’s fine to leave a small amount of ash in the bottom of the stove. Clean the glass and remove build-ups of ash on a regular basis.
- Look After our Environment: Only burn well seasoned dry wood (wood should have 20% moisture or less) or smokeless coal. Don’t use your fire as a mini incinerator. How to Burnright
Stay warm and cosy. By following these steps, you’ll be well-prepared to enjoy a warm and safe winter with your wood burner or open fire.
