Embers Chimney Sweep & Stove Spares Help Centre

Chimney sweeps use a variety of specialised equipment to clean and inspect chimneys effectively. The specific tools they use may vary depending on the type of chimney, the degree of creosote buildup, and the condition of the chimney. Here are some common tools that chimney sweeps use:

1. Chimney Brush: The chimney brush is one of the essential tools used by chimney sweeps. It consists of stiff bristles attached to a long handle. The brush's size and shape may vary based on the chimney's dimensions and the type of liner. The chimney sweep uses the brush to scrub the interior walls of the chimney and remove creosote and debris.

2. Rods and Rod Brushes: Chimney sweeps use flexible rods that can be attached together to extend their reach. Rods are used to push the chimney brush up through the chimney from the bottom or down from the top, depending on the sweeping method. Rod brushes, similar to regular chimney brushes, are designed to fit on the end of the rods and effectively clean the chimney.

3. Vacuum or Dust Collection System: A high-powered vacuum or dust collection system is used to capture the soot, creosote, and debris that falls from the chimney during cleaning. This ensures that the cleaning process is tidy and prevents the mess from spreading into the living space.

4. Camera and Inspection Equipment: Chimney sweeps may use cameras or other inspection tools to assess the condition of the chimney's interior. These tools allow them to identify any potential issues such as cracks, blockages, or damaged liners that may require repair.

5. Creosote Removal Products: In cases of stubborn or hardened creosote buildup, chimney sweeps may use special creosote removal products to help break down and loosen the creosote, making it easier to remove with the brush.

6. Drop Cloths and Tarps: Chimney sweeps use drop cloths and tarps to protect the surrounding area from soot and debris during the cleaning process.

7. Ladder and Safety Gear: Depending on the chimney's location and accessibility, chimney sweeps may use ladders and safety gear to access the chimney safely.

It's important to hire a professional chimney sweep who is knowledgeable and experienced in using these tools safely and efficiently. Regular chimney cleaning and inspections will ensure that your chimney and heating appliance operate safely and efficiently, reducing the risk of chimney fires and other potential hazards.

The glass on your wood-burning stove can turn black due to a combination of factors related to the combustion process and the type of wood you're using. Here's why this can happen:

1. Incomplete Combustion: When wood burns incompletely, it produces soot and other byproducts, including carbon particles. These particles can become airborne and land on the glass, creating a blackened appearance.

2. Moisture Content: The moisture content of the wood you're burning is crucial. Wet or unseasoned wood contains a significant amount of water, which can hinder complete combustion. The excess moisture in the wood can lead to increased smoke and soot production, resulting in blackened glass.

3. Airflow: Proper airflow is essential for efficient combustion. If the stove's air vents or dampers are not adjusted correctly, it can lead to insufficient oxygen supply to the fire, causing incomplete combustion and blackening of the glass.

4. Temperature Variations: Wood-burning stoves can experience temperature variations during operation. Rapid temperature changes can cause condensation on the glass, which can mix with soot and carbon particles, creating a black residue.

To prevent or address blackened glass on your wood-burning stove, you can take the following steps:

1. Use Dry, Seasoned Wood: Burn well-seasoned hardwood with low moisture content (typically around 20% or less). Properly seasoned wood burns more cleanly and efficiently, reducing the production of soot and creosote.

2. Maintain Proper Airflow: Ensure that the stove's air vents and dampers are set according to the manufacturer's recommendations. This allows for sufficient oxygen intake and better combustion.

3. Regular Cleaning: Clean the glass regularly, using specialized stove glass cleaners or a mixture of vinegar and water. Avoid using abrasive materials or harsh chemicals that could scratch or damage the glass.

4. Burn Hot Fires: Occasionally, burn hot fires to help burn off any accumulated creosote and soot on the glass. This process is known as "glass-cleaning fires."

5. Install a Catalytic Converter: Some modern wood-burning stoves come equipped with catalytic converters, which help improve combustion efficiency and reduce the buildup of creosote and soot.

6. Check the Chimney: Ensure that your stove's chimney is clean and properly maintained. A clean chimney allows for the efficient removal of combustion byproducts.

Keep in mind that some blackening of the glass is normal due to the nature of wood combustion. However, with proper wood selection, maintenance, and operation, you can minimize the frequency and severity of blackening on your wood-burning stove's glass.

Yes, your stainless steel chimney liner may still require occasional sweeping even though it is made of stainless steel. While stainless steel liners are more resistant to corrosion and creosote buildup compared to other materials, they are not entirely immune to these issues.

Creosote is a byproduct of burning wood and other solid fuels, and it can accumulate on the interior walls of the chimney liner over time. Even though stainless steel is less likely to attract creosote compared to other materials like clay or tile, it can still develop a layer of creosote if the burning conditions are not ideal.

Factors that can contribute to creosote buildup in a stainless steel liner include:

1. Burning unseasoned or wet wood: Burning wood with high moisture content produces more creosote.

2. Burning low-quality wood: Certain types of wood produce more creosote than others.

3. Incomplete combustion: If the air supply to the fire is insufficient, it can lead to incomplete burning and increased creosote formation.

4. Cooler chimney temperatures: Chimneys that are not properly insulated or located on the exterior of the building may have cooler temperatures, leading to more creosote condensation.

To prevent excessive creosote buildup, it's essential to use proper burning techniques, such as burning dry and seasoned wood, maintaining adequate airflow, and having regular maintenance and inspections. Even with stainless steel liners, it is recommended to have your chimney system inspected and cleaned by a professional chimney sweep at least once a year, depending on the frequency of use and the type of fuel burned.

A clean and well-maintained chimney liner ensures proper ventilation, reduces the risk of chimney fires, and improves the overall efficiency of your heating appliance.

The frequency of chimney sweeping depends on several factors, including the type of fuel you use, the appliance's usage, the condition of the chimney, and local regulations. Here are some general guidelines for how often you should have your chimney swept:

1. Wood-burning appliances: If you use a wood-burning stove or fireplace, it is recommended to have your chimney swept at least once a year. This is especially important if you use the appliance frequently during the colder months. Burning wood produces creosote, which can build up in the chimney and increase the risk of chimney fires.

2. Pellet-burning appliances: Pellet stoves and inserts also produce creosote and require regular cleaning. Depending on the type of pellets used and the frequency of use, you may need to have the chimney swept once a year or more.

3. Gas-burning appliances: Gas fireplaces and stoves produce fewer creosote deposits compared to wood-burning appliances. However, they can still accumulate debris and soot. It is generally recommended to have a gas chimney inspected and cleaned every 1-2 years, even if it is used infrequently.

4. Oil and coal-burning appliances: If you have an oil or coal-burning appliance, the chimney should be cleaned and inspected annually to remove soot and potential blockages.

5. Frequency of use: If you use your fireplace or stove frequently, you may need more frequent cleanings. Conversely, if you only use it occasionally, you may be able to extend the cleaning interval.

6. Chimney condition: If you have experienced any chimney-related issues, such as a chimney fire, excessive creosote buildup, or structural damage, you should have the chimney inspected and cleaned by a professional regardless of the regular cleaning schedule.

7. Local regulations: Some localities have specific regulations or guidelines for chimney maintenance. Be sure to check with your local authorities or consult with a chimney sweep to understand any regional requirements.

It's important to have chimney sweeping and inspections performed by a qualified and certified chimney sweep. They can thoroughly clean the chimney, identify any potential issues, and ensure that your chimney and heating appliance are operating safely and efficiently. Regular maintenance will reduce the risk of chimney fires, improve air quality, and prolong the life of your chimney system.

Getting your chimney swept regularly is important for several reasons:

1. Safety: Creosote, a byproduct of burning wood or other fuels, can accumulate on the interior of the chimney over time. Creosote is highly flammable and can lead to chimney fires if it's not removed through regular sweeping. A clean chimney reduces the risk of a dangerous chimney fire that could spread to your home.

2. Efficiency: A buildup of creosote and debris in the chimney can restrict the flow of air and exhaust gases, reducing the efficiency of your fireplace or stove. A clean chimney allows for better air circulation, which can lead to more efficient burning and better heat output.

3. Preventing Blockages: Birds, rodents, leaves, and other debris can find their way into your chimney, leading to blockages. These blockages can interfere with proper ventilation, causing smoke to back up into your home or preventing proper draft for combustion. Regular chimney sweeping helps prevent these blockages.

4. Carbon Monoxide Prevention: A blocked or poorly functioning chimney can lead to the buildup of carbon monoxide gas in your home, which is colorless, odorless, and deadly. Regular chimney sweeping and maintenance ensure that harmful gases are properly vented out of your home.

5. Extending Chimney Lifespan: Over time, the accumulation of creosote and other substances can lead to corrosion and deterioration of the chimney liner and structure. Regular sweeping can help identify any issues early, allowing for timely repairs and extending the lifespan of your chimney.

6. Compliance and Insurance: Some insurance policies require regular chimney maintenance to maintain coverage. Additionally, some local building codes and regulations mandate chimney inspections and sweeping for safety reasons.

7. Reducing Odors: A dirty chimney can emit unpleasant odors, particularly during humid weather. Regular sweeping helps reduce these odors by removing debris and creosote that can contribute to unpleasant smells.

8. Peace of Mind: Knowing that your chimney is clean and in proper working condition gives you peace of mind when using your fireplace or stove.

It's recommended to have your chimney professionally inspected and swept at least once a year, or more frequently if you use your fireplace or stove frequently. A professional chimney sweep has the expertise and tools to thoroughly clean your chimney and identify any potential issues that need attention.

Both 316L and 904L are grades of stainless steel that offer different properties and characteristics. Here's a comparison between 316L and 904L grade stainless steel:

316L Stainless Steel:

1. Composition: 316L is an austenitic stainless steel that contains around 16-18% chromium, 10-14% nickel, and 2-3% molybdenum. The addition of molybdenum enhances its corrosion resistance, especially in chloride-rich environments.

2. Corrosion Resistance: 316L stainless steel is known for its excellent corrosion resistance, making it suitable for a wide range of applications, including marine environments and exposure to various chemicals. It performs well in most non-extreme conditions.

3. Common Applications: 316L is commonly used in industries like marine, chemical processing, food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, and medical devices. It's also widely used for architectural purposes due to its aesthetic appearance.

4. Machinability and Formability: 316L offers good machinability and formability, making it relatively easy to work with for various fabrication processes.

904L Stainless Steel:

1. Composition: 904L is a high-alloy austenitic stainless steel with higher levels of chromium, nickel, and molybdenum compared to 316L. It typically contains around 19-23% chromium, 23-28% nickel, 4-5% molybdenum, and small amounts of copper.

2. Corrosion Resistance: 904L stainless steel is known for its exceptional corrosion resistance, especially in harsh environments containing sulfuric acid and other aggressive acids. It's used in applications where corrosion resistance is critical.

3. Common Applications: 904L is often used in industries like chemical processing, petrochemical, pharmaceuticals, and oil and gas. It's particularly valued in applications involving sulfuric acid, such as in equipment for acid production and handling.

4. Machinability and Formability: 904L is more difficult to machine and form compared to standard austenitic stainless steels like 316L. Its higher alloy content can lead to reduced machinability and increased tool wear.

Key Differences:

1. Corrosion Resistance: While both grades offer good corrosion resistance, 904L stands out for its exceptional resistance to specific aggressive environments, particularly containing sulfuric acid.

2. Alloy Composition: 904L contains higher levels of chromium, nickel, molybdenum, and additional elements like copper, contributing to its enhanced corrosion resistance.

3. Applications: 316L is more commonly used in a wide range of applications, while 904L is chosen for specialized applications requiring extreme corrosion resistance, especially in aggressive chemical environments.

4. Machinability and Formability: 316L is generally easier to machine and form compared to 904L.

In summary, the choice between 316L and 904L stainless steel depends on the specific requirements of your application, with 904L being chosen for its superior corrosion resistance in highly aggressive environments.

Having a carbon monoxide (CO) alarm is crucial for several reasons, all of which revolve around the fact that carbon monoxide is a silent and potentially deadly gas:

1. Invisible and Odourless: Carbon monoxide is colourless, odourless, and tasteless, making it impossible to detect without the aid of a specialised alarm. It's often referred to as the "silent killer" because its presence can go unnoticed until it's too late.

2. Health Risks: Inhalation of carbon monoxide interferes with the body's ability to transport oxygen in the blood, leading to carbon monoxide poisoning. Initial symptoms, such as headache, dizziness, nausea, and confusion, can easily be mistaken for the flu. Prolonged exposure or high concentrations can result in unconsciousness, brain damage, and even death.

3. Rapid Onset: Depending on the concentration of carbon monoxide and the duration of exposure, symptoms can escalate quickly. Without a CO alarm, occupants might not realize the danger until they're seriously affected.

4. Various Sources: Carbon monoxide can be produced by the incomplete combustion of fossil fuels like natural gas, oil, wood, and coal. It can come from sources like gas furnaces, water heaters, stoves, fireplaces, and vehicle exhaust. A CO alarm helps detect leaks or build-ups from these sources.

5. Protection during Sleep: Carbon monoxide poisoning can occur when people are asleep, making detection even more challenging. A CO alarm alerts you when CO levels rise, giving you the opportunity to take action and prevent harm.

6. Early Warning: CO alarms are designed to sound an alarm when they detect elevated levels of carbon monoxide in the air. This early warning allows you to leave the affected area, ventilate the space, and call for help if necessary.

7. Compliance and Safety Regulations: Many jurisdictions require the installation of carbon monoxide alarms in homes, rental properties, and other buildings. Compliance with these regulations is crucial for your safety and legal responsibilities.

8. Peace of Mind: Having a carbon monoxide alarm provides peace of mind for you and your family. You can sleep, work, and live knowing that you'll be alerted to the presence of this dangerous gas.

In summary, a carbon monoxide alarm is a vital tool for safeguarding your health and well-being. It provides an early warning system that can mean the difference between life and death in the event of a carbon monoxide leak. Always ensure your CO alarm is properly installed, regularly tested, and has fresh batteries to ensure its effectiveness.

The frequency of chimney sweeping depends on several factors, including the type of fuel burned, the amount of use, and the condition of the chimney. As a general guideline:

1. Wood-burning chimneys: These should be swept at least once a year. If you use your fireplace frequently, you may need more frequent cleanings.

2. Gas and oil chimneys: These should be inspected annually, but they might not need cleaning as often as wood-burning chimneys.

3. Pellet stoves: These should be swept annually as well, as the pellets can leave behind residue that can block the chimney.

4. Coal chimneys: These typically need to be swept twice a year due to the high levels of soot they produce.

Regular chimney sweeping helps prevent the buildup of creosote, soot, and debris, reducing the risk of chimney fires and carbon monoxide poisoning. It's always a good idea to consult with a professional chimney sweep to determine the appropriate cleaning schedule based on your specific situation.

A HETAS certificate is one of the necessary in several key situations to ensure safety and compliance with building regulations.

Here are the primary instances when you need one: New Installations: When a new appliance such as a wood-burning stove, multi-fuel stove, or open fire, is installed.

If your stove smokes when you light it, don't worry. It's usually due to a cold plug of air in your flue or chimney. Light one or two fire lighters and let them burn for 10-15 minutes to warm the chimney and push out the cold air. Then, light your fire as usual. Try Upside Down Burning: place small logs at the bottom, kindling on top, and a fire lighter on the kindling. Light the fire lighter to warm the chimney, ignite the kindling, and light the logs. This works well for low or externally insulated flue systems. Enjoy your fire! 🔥

If you are unsure of your stove glass size you can either find the manufacturer data plate (a little metal plate either screwed to the stove body or supplied with the instructions)

Or grab your tape measure and measure away! Please do check out our T&C's as special orders are not returnable. Anything that's custom made is not returnable.

Check your stove manufacturer's instructions for the fire rope size. Can't find it? Email us a picture of your stove, and we might identify it for you. Look for a manufacturer's data plate on the stove body, which could be screwed on, hanging on a chain, or inside the door or under the ash pan.

We can usually supply glass and fire bricks cut to size for you.

We will need to know whether your glass/fire bricks are rectangular or square with no cut outs. If they are, please give us a call.

If your glass is shaped, just make a drawing, showing the profile and dimensions you need and email them to us. If your glass has an arched top, we will need an accurate template on a piece of paper. Add your name, and daytime telephone number and pop it in the post to us. Once received we will telephone you with a quotation for the cost of the glass and if you are happy, we can then take your order and payment on the phone. The glass will then be cut from your exact template and couriered to you.

If your wood-burning stove is not controllable, meaning you are having difficulty regulating the heat output or maintaining a consistent burn, there could be several reasons for this issue. Here are some common causes and possible solutions:

1. Damp or Unseasoned Wood: Burning damp or unseasoned wood can make it challenging to control the stove's burn rate. Wet wood contains a lot of moisture, which causes it to burn inefficiently, producing less heat and more smoke. Ensure you are using dry and properly seasoned wood for better control over the stove's performance.

2. Insufficient Airflow: A wood-burning stove requires a proper supply of air for efficient combustion. If the air vents are partially or fully closed or if there are obstructions in the airflow, it can lead to incomplete burning and poor control over the burn rate. Make sure the air vents are fully open and free from debris.

3. Improper Loading and Stacking: The way you load and stack the wood inside the stove can affect its burn rate. Overloading the stove or stacking the wood too tightly can restrict airflow, leading to a sluggish burn. Follow the manufacturer's guidelines for loading the stove properly.

4. Chimney Draft Issues: A properly functioning chimney with good draft is essential for a controllable burn. If your chimney has a blockage, is too cold, or has a draft problem, it can affect the stove's performance. Have your chimney inspected and cleaned regularly to ensure proper ventilation.

5. Damaged or Malfunctioning Components: Check for any damaged or malfunctioning parts in the stove, such as broken baffles, worn-out seals, or a faulty air control mechanism. These issues can disrupt the stove's ability to burn efficiently and be controlled properly.

6. Size of the Stove: If the wood-burning stove is too large for the space you are trying to heat, it may be challenging to achieve proper control over the heat output. A stove that is too powerful for the room can quickly overheat the space, making it difficult to maintain a comfortable temperature.

7. User Experience and Technique: Controlling a wood-burning stove may require some practice and technique. If you are new to using a wood stove, it may take some time to learn how to adjust the airflow and manage the fire effectively.

To improve control over your wood-burning stove, consider the following steps:

• Use dry and properly seasoned wood.

• Ensure sufficient airflow by keeping the air vents open.

• Load the stove following the manufacturer's guidelines.

• Have your chimney inspected and cleaned regularly.

• Check for any damaged components and replace them if necessary.

• If you're new to using a wood stove, experiment with different techniques to find the best way to control the burn rate.

If the issue persists despite trying these solutions, it's best to consult a professional stove technician or chimney sweep to inspect your wood-burning stove and identify any specific problems.

About 98% of stoves do not need the bricks cemented in place. Some of the very old stoves do have the firebricks cemented in but it is very rare. If you cannot see the fire bricks you need please measure them and telephone us, we will be happy to take your order over the phone and cut the bricks for you.

Our standard size glass is 4mm thick, which is the most common, but we do also sell 5mm thick glass which is not shown on our website. You will therefore need to order this by telephone. The 4mm glass can either be ordered on the site, or over the telephone, whichever you prefer.

If your log burner glass turns black quickly, it's likely due to incomplete combustion or other factors. Common reasons include: Moisture in the wood: Wet or unseasoned wood uses more energy to evaporate water, leading to inefficient burning and soot formation. Insufficient air supply: Wood needs enough oxygen for efficient combustion. Restricted airflow can cause incomplete burning and soot buildup. Poor draft: A poorly designed chimney or inadequate draft can cause smoke and soot to linger, blackening the glass. Incorrect burning techniques: Improper stacking or using damp wood can lead to incomplete combustion. Wood quality: Some woods produce more soot and creosote than others. To reduce blackening: Use dry, seasoned wood. Ensure proper air supply by keeping vents fully open. Regularly clean and inspect your log burner and chimney. Use proper burning techniques. Consider using different types of wood, like hardwoods, which burn cleaner. If the problem persists, consult a professional to assess your log burner and chimney system.

We can certainly do this work for you.

The cost varies depending on the condition of the door(s), glass, rope etc., and whether all the clips and screws can be removed without being re-machined. The only other cost would be the return courier charge to you.

We would need the door(s) for approximately 5 days.

Yes, we can fix your stove door. Send it to us via courier for around £10, and we'll return it once restored. After receiving the door, we'll give you a cost estimate. Email us pictures for a rough idea. We can replace the glass, rope, and clips, and restore the door. Need new fire bricks? We can supply those too. Fire bricks are easy to remove and replace. For the stove body, use high-temperature paint, which we sell. Call us for tips if you're unsure.

Our glass is sourced from Schott Robax in Germany, a top-quality manufacturer. There's no guarantee on glass, but breakage shortly after installation is usually due to poor fitting. The clips holding the glass should be tightened only finger-tight plus half a turn. This is stated on the label of each glass piece we sell. When you light a fire, the metal door expands, but the glass does not. If the clips are too tight, the expanding metal can break the glass.

Yes, the glass in a woodburner can definitely be replaced; if the glass cracks or becomes damaged, it is important to replace it as soon as possible for safety and efficiency reasons;you can usually remove the door of the woodburner, access the glass clips, and carefully replace the old glass with a new one of the same size and specifications.

Any crack in the outer casing or glass of your stove needs to be addressed as a priority and the stove should not be used until you have done so.

We do not recommend the use of the stove if the inside or outside of the glass in the door is broken or cracked

Yes, log burners can affect your home insurance. Log burners are considered a higher fire risk than standard heating systems, so insurers may adjust your premium or refuse coverage.

What you should do

• Inform your insurer: Let your insurer know if you're installing, already have, or are replacing a log burner.

• Get a Certificate of Compliance: This certificate shows that your stove was installed correctly and meets building regulations.

• Ensure safety: Install a smoke alarm, fire-resistant materials, and carbon monoxide detectors.

• Maintain your stove: Get your chimney cleaned and inspected annually.

• Follow safety guidelines: Use a fire guard and keep flammable items away from the heat.

What could happen

• If you don't tell your insurer about your log burner, they may refuse to pay out for a claim.

• If your stove doesn't meet safety guidelines or building regulations, your insurance provider may consider it a breach of policy.