15/04/2026
This is exactly how chimney fires start.
Today’s job had a faulty stove door and a heavily sooted chimney — a combination that significantly increases fire risk.
When a stove door doesn’t seal properly, it pulls in uncontrolled air. That causes incomplete combustion, producing higher levels of soot and creosote. These deposits build up inside the flue, and once they reach ignition temperature (around 450–600°C), they can catch fire.
With regular wood burning, a chimney should be swept every 3 months.
This isn’t overkill — it’s based on how quickly soot and creosote can accumulate, especially with: – Unseasoned or damp wood
– Low burn temperatures (slumbering the stove)
– Poor airflow control
On this job:
✔️ Door repaired and sealing correctly
✔️ Chimney fully cleaned and safe
✔️ Appliance now burning efficiently
Even a few millimetres of soot can restrict airflow and increase flue temperatures, making conditions ideal for a chimney fire.
If you’re using your stove regularly and haven’t had it swept recently, it’s worth getting it checked.
📩 Message to book in and stay ahead of the risk.
