Don't forget to clean chimney

Ruapehu Bulletin, Volume 10, Issue 482, 20 April 1993, Page 7

Don't forget to clean chimney

Buming wood which emits heavy smoke through excess gum deposits can be detrimental to the fireplace and chimney if these are not kept clean. Cleaning the chimney and flue of any fireplace should be done every year if certain wood is used for heating. Pine is one of the worst offenders as the older heart timbers tend

to have a good deal of resin. This burns fiercely and leaves a thick soot deposit which will clog the airway and lead to later ignition. Pine is ideal for open fires providing it is dry and has little gum to burn. Bluegum Likewise, bluegum is a great warmer with a slight jtendency to spark, thus making it ideal for log burners or pot belly stoves. Many home owners forget that the chimney should be cleaned regularly. If this is not carried out the soot deposits will grow beyond reasonable clearance and the result is a burning chimney. In brick construction this can be disastrous with fire breaking out in the ceiling. Fire authorities are concerned that home owners tend to forget the need to have chimney flues cleaned and suggest that this should be attended to by an expert. The same applies to enclosed fireplaces and metal-type flues. Although the burning process is more efficient, there is still the residue to contend with after a time. People who use woodburning log fires will already be aware that the practice of using anything other than clean, dry wood is not recommended.

Open fires should be guarded. For the sake of childrens' safety and to prevent occasional sparks from burning ex-

pensive carpet, a metal fire-screen is recommended. These do not prevent heat from entering the air space.