How do I get a chimney checked?

moggins

We were lucky enough to find a huge fireplace hidden behind a 1960's tiled fireplace and gas fire.

We uncovered it, had the chimney breast rebuilt and have bought a grate, how do I now find out if the interior of the chimney is actually safe enough to light a fire. I have had it swept already.

wealthsaver

You might be well advised to discuss with your local coal merchant who might know of an appropriate expert or indeed have some views of their own.

An important check is make sure the chimney draws before lighting a fire. I think you could try smoke matches or pellets to test for sufficient draught up the flue.

Also there are some good sites on the internet about safety relating to chimneys links below and or suppliers of fireplace accessories.

http://www.nace.org.uk/content/safety_info.htm
http://www.fluesystems.com/fireplace/
http://www.solidfuel.co.uk/frame/main.html
http://www.solidfuel.co.uk/pdfs/index.htm
http://www.jn01.dial.pipex.com/fl.shtml

losgiganteskid

Moggins - how do you get your chimney checked is simplicity itself.... find a ladder and then paint every other brick black, then the ones that are left, paint all those white. Bingo your chimney is checked !!

The_Biff

Also, I would recommend a carbon monoxide detector in the room with the fire & any rooms that the chimney goes through. £25 approx each - Wilko & Screwfix sell them.

FirstClassMale

I shopped around and found that Tesco were the cheapest for a detector at £19.99. Make sure you buy a detector and not simply an indicator which only shows there is Co present and does not have an alarm

oldagetraveller

Couldn't the chimney sweep help/advise? It was wise to have the chimney swept anyway prior to using. At least you know it's clear.
Last year my original open coal fire was recommisioned (1960's house) and I didn't have it swept - it went on fire when the first coal fire was lit and reached working temperature. :eek: It looked quite clean peering up the chimney but there must have been a large accumulation of soot higher up. It's not a pleasant experience and fortunately burnt itself out with no damage done.
You can't beat a coal fire though and its reassuring to know there is an alternative or supplementary source of heat other than gas or electrickery.