The Dangers of “Slumbering” a Wood Burner
While talking to the customer, I discovered he was “slumbering” his stove overnight. This is a practice where wood is loaded into the burner and the air controls are turned down almost completely to keep the fire smouldering overnight. While this might seem efficient, slumbering can cause incomplete combustion. The result? Sticky, flammable creosote accumulates at a rapid rate, increasing the likelihood of future blockages and even chimney fires.
Ben took the time to educate the customer about the risks of slumbering and offered best practices for safe wood-burning. He recommended avoiding slumbering and advised on using only seasoned logs with a moisture content below 20%. The customer appreciated the advice and was relieved that we caught the problem before it led to a chimney fire.
By the end of the visit, the customer had gained more than just a chimney clean. They had valuable insight into proper wood burner maintenance, allowing them to enjoy the warmth and peace of mind.
Why Routine Maintenance Matters
This case study highlights why annual chimney sweeps are crucial, particularly for customers relying on wood burners as their main heating source. Routine maintenance not only keeps your wood burner running efficiently but also protects your home and family by preventing dangerous blockages.
Don’t wait until problems arise; schedule your chimney sweep annually to ensure your safety and peace of mind. I am based in Heathfield but work throughout East Sussex as well as up to Tunbridge Wells in Kent. The towns I mainly work in are Hailsham, Crowborough, Hailsham, Uckfield, Mayfield and Hellingly.
Give Ben a call at 01435 408100 or email info@chimneasy.com to schedule your chimney sweep appointment today. We look forward to hearing from you.
