Is Your Chimney Ready for Autumn? Essential Checks to Prevent Chimney Fires

There’s nothing quite like lighting the first fire of the season. As the evenings draw in and temperatures start to dip, many households in the Scottish Borders turn once again to their wood burners or open fires, but before striking that first match, it’s important to make sure your chimney is safe, clean, and ready for use.

At Pearsons of Duns, we know that autumn is one of the busiest times of year for chimney sweeps – and with good reason. A neglected flue can quickly become a fire hazard, but a few essential checks now can help prevent problems later in the season.

Every time you burn wood, coal, or other solid fuels, by-products like soot, ash, and creosote are deposited inside the chimney. Creosote in particular is highly flammable. If allowed to build up, it can ignite when temperatures rise inside the flue, causing a chimney fire that may spread to the rest of the house.

Essential checks before lighting up this autumn

Book a professional chimney sweep

The single most effective step you can take is to have your chimney swept. A professional sweep will remove soot, tar, and creosote, as well as check for obstructions or damage inside the flue. Regular sweeping improves efficiency, lowers emissions, and most importantly, keeps your home safe.

Inspect your chimney and flue

If you have an external twin-wall system, take a moment to look for signs of rust, loose joints, or damage caused by wind and rain over the summer. For masonry chimneys, look out for crumbling mortar or cracks that may need attention. Spotting problems early can save money on repairs.

Check the chimney pot and cowl

Strong winds and nesting birds can easily dislodge or block chimney pots and cowls. A secure, well-fitted cowl helps prevent rain and debris from entering the flue while maintaining god ventilation.

Test your stove or fire seals

If you use a stove, check that the rope seals around the door and the glass is intact and airtight. Worn seals allow excess air into the firebox, making it harder to control the burn and increasing creosote deposits.

Use only dry, seasoned fuel

Damp or unseasoned logs produce more smoke, tar, and creosote. Using properly seasoned wood or approved smokeless fuels not only protects your chimney but also gives you more heat for less fuel.

Stay safe and warm this season

A clean, well-maintained chimney gives you peace of mind, knowing your home is safe and your stove or fire is working at its best. With a little preparation now, you’ll be able to enjoy those cosy autumn evenings without worry.

At Pearsons of Duns, we offer chimney sweeping, stove inspections, and a full range of maintenance products – from stove rope kits to thermometers and glass cleaners – to keep your fire burning safely and efficiently.

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