UK-Sourced Premium Kiln-dried Hardwood Logs

Starting a log fire requires careful preparation and patience. Begin by arranging small kindling and firelighters at the base of your fireplace. Create a stable structure by placing smaller logs in a crisscross pattern above this base, ensuring proper airflow between them. Once you light the firelighters, the fire will gradually build. As the initial logs catch, you can begin adding larger logs to establish a strong, lasting fire.

Coal fires need a different approach than wood fires. Start by creating a base layer of paper and kindling. Once this is burning well, add a small amount of coal around and over the flames. As the coal begins to catch, gradually add more coal to build up the fire. The key to success is maintaining good airflow through the bottom vents throughout the process.

Safety should always be your top priority when maintaining a fire. Have your chimney professionally swept at least once a year to prevent dangerous buildup. Always use a fireguard when appropriate, and never leave fires unattended. Keep all flammable items at a safe distance from your fire to prevent accidents.

Understanding Chimney Safety

The Importance of Maintenance

Regular chimney maintenance is your first line of defence against house fires. Professional sweeping removes dangerous creosote buildup, soot, and debris that can ignite. These routine inspections also identify structural issues before they become serious problems, protecting both your home and your family.

Maintenance Schedule

Different fuels require different maintenance schedules. Wood-burning systems need quarterly sweeping due to creosote accumulation. Smokeless coal systems should be swept annually. Bituminous coal requires bi-annual maintenance. Schedule your September sweep early to avoid the winter rush when professionals are heavily booked.

Professional Inspections

Licensed chimney sweeps do more than basic cleaning. They remove hazardous creosote, identify potential fire risks, verify structural integrity, and ensure proper ventilation. Their documentation helps maintain insurance compliance and provides peace of mind during the heating season.

Fuel Selection

Your choice of fuel directly impacts safety and performance. Use only kiln-dried logs with moisture content below 20%. Look for the Woodsure Ready to Burn certification on wood products. For multi-fuel stoves, choose HETAS-approved smokeless fuels like Homefire, Ecoal50, Taybrite, or Phurnacite.

Finding a Professional

Always hire certified professionals registered with recognised organizations. These include the Guild of Master Chimney Sweeps, The National Association of Chimney Sweeps (NACS), and the Association of Professional Independent Chimney Sweeps (APICS). These organizations maintain strict standards and ensure proper training.

Warning Signs

Never ignore warning signs that require immediate attention: smoke entering your room, strong burning odours, excessive soot buildup, visible chimney damage, or poor fuel combustion. Quick action prevents dangerous situations and reduces repair costs.

Cost Benefits

Proper maintenance does more than prevent fires. It improves heating efficiency, reduces fuel consumption, extends appliance life, and helps avoid costly emergency repairs. Regular sweeping is an investment in both safety and performance.

When the warm season arrives, properly preparing your stove for storage is essential. Thoroughly clean out all ash and debris, and leave the vents slightly open to prevent moisture from accumulating. Consider installing a chimney cap to keep out rain and wildlife. Store any unused fuel in a dry, well-ventilated space to maintain its quality for next season.

To keep your stove glass clear, only use properly dried wood with less than 20% moisture content. Maintain adequate airflow and burn at higher temperatures when first lighting your fire. Regular cleaning with appropriate glass cleaner will help maintain visibility and appearance. These steps will significantly reduce black deposits on your stove glass.

Carbon monoxide (CO) safety is crucial for any home with a solid fuel appliance. Install CO detectors near your stove and in sleeping areas, and ensure proper ventilation in your home. Watch for signs of poor combustion such as excessive smoke or soot buildup. Regular professional maintenance will help ensure your system operates safely and efficiently.

Understand the Silent Threat

Carbon monoxide (CO) is an invisible, odourless gas that poses a serious risk to your family's safety. While proper ventilation systems safely channel this gas outside, blocked chimneys, faulty appliances, or inadequate ventilation can create dangerous situations. Our comprehensive safety solutions ensure your home stays protected.

Recognise the Warning Signs

Your body provides clear signals of carbon monoxide exposure: headaches, dizziness, nausea, breathlessness, collapse, and potential loss of consciousness. Our advanced CO alarms detect dangerous levels long before symptoms appear, providing round-the-clock protection for your peace of mind.

Immediate Action Plan

If you suspect CO exposure, act immediately. Open all doors and windows, evacuate your home, and seek medical attention. Contact our emergency response team or the Gas Emergency Helpline 0800 111 999 for rapid professional assistance. We'll thoroughly inspect your property before clearing it for safe return.