Why does my chimney need sweeping? Is it really necessary?
Yes, primarily for safety reasons, sweeping your chimney will stop the build-up of creosote and soot that reduces the danger of chimney fires. A typical sweep can also deal with obstructions such as bird nests, soot falls and building debris. Leaves and cobwebs can also be removed.
Soot and creosote, when subject to the damp conditions in your chimney/flue, produce corrosive acids that will attack your flue or liner. Regular sweeping reduces the effects of such corrosion and increases the lifespan of your chimney/flue surfaces.
A smoke draw test happens during all chimney sweeps – at no extra charge.
How often should my chimney be cleaned?
This depends on what fuel is used in your chimney
- Smokeless coals - at least once per year
- Wood - once per season when in use
- Bitumous coal - twice per year
- Oil - once per year
- Gas - once per year
Stove Maintenance and Spares
If your stove needs new rope, glass or firebricks, please let me know.
I carry spare rope and Carbon Monoxide alarms in the van. With 2-3 days notice before my visit, I can make sure I have the spares with me for the appointment.
How should I prepare for the Chimney Sweep’s arrival?
A Chimney Sweep need space to work, so it would be very helpful if you would make sure the area in front of your fireplace is clear.
Hot ash should be removed the night before and please make sure to remove ash and other debris from the grate. Please remove any fragile items from around the fireplace area to prevent any inadvertent damage and move away any hearth furniture and companion sets.
I will need a free plug socket for my vacuum cleaner.
What happens during the sweep?
Your flue will be swept from in front of your stove or open fire. Sheets will be laid in front of the appliance and rods and brushes will used to clean the flue. This will take 20-40 minutes. It will be cleaned in a way that no soot or ash will come into your room (with use of an industrial vacuum cleaner and sealing sheets). The area will be left as clean as (or cleaner) than when I arrived.
What happens to the soot?
Soot used to be very valuable to Sweeps! People would buy it for farming.
Once I have finished sweeping, I will secure the bag of soot and leave it with you to either use on your garden or for you to dispose of through your household waste.
What is the best way to book a Sweep?
Please give me a call on my mobile 07875 687517 or at home 01600 714438.
You can message me on WhatsApp and Facebook by searching Johnny the Sweep, or feel free free to drop me an email at JohnnyTheSweep@gmail.com requesting a call back.
If I don't answer your call straight away due to sweeping, please leave a message and I will endeavour to call you back as soon as possible on the same day.
I always have my diary with me, so if you see me out and about in the Johnny The Sweep van around your neighbourhood, please feel free to say hello, where I would also be very happy to book your next sweep.
How do I pay?
I accept cash, Contactless Reader (Sum Up) or BACS (electronic transfer), payable at the time of the sweep. I will have my bank details with me for the BACS payment when I visit.
You are welcome to book the following years's sweep at this point.