Chimney Fires

Chimney fires occur when the deposits from combustion collect within the flues and catch fire. The deposits are soot from solid fuel or creosote from wood .

A chimney fire can cause damage to the flue, to the house or surrounding structures and can start a house fire.

The indications of a chimney fire

Chimney fires are usually started when high temperatures or flames from a very hot fire extend into the flue and the ignite the combustible deposits within.  Indications of this type of chimney fire can include:

• A loud roaring noise, which occurs as massive amounts of air are sucked through the appliance or fireplace opening.
• Sparks and flames shooting from the chimney top
• A glowing or shimmering appliance outlet or connector.
• Flames visible through any tiny cracks in the outlet or connector.
• Smoke and odours noticeable in adjoining rooms or the loft space.
• Heating up of the chimney breast or flue pipe

It should be noted that it is possible to experience a chimney fire without noticing any of the above characteristics; it is also possible that any combination of the above characteristics, will be noticed. As all chimney fires are different, the above characteristics are intended only as a useful guide.

The dangers of chimney fires

All chimney fires are extremely dangerous even though their intensity and duration may vary. During a chimney fire, internal flue temperatures may reach a staggering 1,100 degrees Celsius. As a result, massive radiant heat is emitted through the chimney walls, and with the addition of possible thatched or wooden roofs, a devastating house fire can start quickly. Flames and sparks can leap from the chimney top or through cracks in the flue and ignite the roof and other parts of the house. The bricks of a chimney can become hot enough to combust nearby flammable materials such as thatch and wooden beams. Adjoining houses and nearby trees can also be affected.

If no apparent damage is visible on the exterior of the chimney breast of flue, it is still highly probably that damage may have occurred within the lining of the chimney. Chimney fires burn hot enough to damage liners, crack chimney walls and pots and damage factory built metal chimneys.

How to reduce the risk of a fire

It is recommended that in normal use, chimneys should be swept as follows:

• SOLID FUEL APPLIANCES – once per year at least for smokeless fuel
• WOOD BURNING APPLIANCES – Quarterly when in use
• GAS APPLIANCES – Once per year if designed for sweeping
• OIL FIRED APPLIANCES – Once per year

Advice from the National Association of Chimney Sweeps is available here.

Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Heating and cooking appliances fuelled by coal, smokeless fuels, wood oil and gas can cause CO poisoning if they are poorly installed, incorrectly used or if they are not properly maintained.

When fuel does not burn properly it produces poisonous and potentially deadly CO gas. We supply and fit carbon monoxide detectors upon request.

The symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning

The early symptoms of CO poisoning are usually similar to common ailments such as upset stomach, tiredness and flu.

The common symptoms can include:

• Headaches
• Breathlessness
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Dizziness
• Collapse
• Chest pains
• Stomach pains
• Erratic behaviour
• Visual problem

You can reduce the risk of CO poisoning by:

• Having appliances installed and serviced by competent engineers
• Getting chimneys and flues swept : blocked flues can leak fumes
• Inspecting chimneys and flues
• Not overloading fires and stoves
• Using only the correct fuel
• Fitting a carbon monoxide alarm.