FAQs
Q: Why do I need my chimney swept?
A: Each time you use your appliance, by-products from combustion are created that remain within the flue. These are in the form of soot or in worse case, creosote. Over time these products build up, restricting the amount of space for flue gases to escape. Eventually, if these deposits are left in situ, they can block the flue causing poisonous gases to enter the home. Soot and creosote are also flammable and if left can cause a chimney fire. Cobwebs, bird nests and other obstructions are also cleared allowing flue gases to escape freely. In some cases this can also benefit the updraft helping your appliance work more efficiently.
Q: How often do I need my chimney swept?
A: Depending on how often you use your chimney, what fuel(s) you are burning and the quality of your fuel will determine how often you need your chimney swept. Sweep Spot will be able to best advise on the sweep frequency for you. A rough guide is as follows:
Wood: quarterly when in use
Coal: quarterly when in use
Smokeless fuel: at least once a year
Oil: once a year
Gas: once a year
Q: When is the best time to get my chimney swept?
A: The best time to have your chimney swept is just before the burning season (September) and especially if you have not used your appliance for a prolonged period of time. If you are burning wood/coal and require a second sweep that year, we suggest having it done midway through the burning season (December/January). If you have just moved into your property and have no records of when the chimney was last swept we suggest getting it cleaned prior to use.
Q: Will having my chimney swept create mess?
A: Sweep Spot use a very methodical process when it comes to sweeping with our main focus on cleanliness. We use our own dust sheets and an industrial filtered vacuum cleaner to prevent any damage to your home. We will always leave your home as we found it, if not cleaner.
Q: What do I need to do prior to Sweep Spot attending?
A: Where possible, we ask that a space is made for our van to make transporting equipment quicker and easier. A clear passage to the appliance that needs sweeping is also beneficial. We suggest you clear any ornaments away from the hearth and any furniture nearby (coffee tables etc) is moved to provide a larger working area. We ask that you do not use your appliance for at least 24 hours prior to our arrival. For more info, please read our full terms and conditions.
Q: How do I prevent birds nesting in my chimney?
A: The best way to stop birds nesting within your chimney is to fit a bird guard or cap. Sweep Spot can supply and fit these for you - please get in contact for a quote.
Q: Do you provide a certificate post sweep?
A: After every sweep, providing the appliance operates correctly and is safe to use, a Guild of Master Sweeps certificate will be issued. Please keep this safe for your records.
Q: How do I pay?
A: Sweep Spot accept cash, card payments or BACS.
Q: What do I do if I have had a chimney fire?
A: After a chimney fire do not use your appliance. Call your local chimney sweep so they can inspect the damage caused using an inspection camera. Chimney fires reach extremely high temperatures which can quickly cause significant damage. Using your appliance after a chimney fire could result in fire spread to other parts of your property.