Getting chimney cleaned

[Teasy]

Our house is 5 years old, (although we are only in it 2 years) we light the fire every winter, but we have never had the chimney cleaned. For this reason I havent lit the fire yet (although have put those fire logs in paper on that burn for an hour, but its getting cold. Money is really tight at the minute, do you think I could do without getting it cleaned, the house being only 5 years old?

Thanks in advance

[Twenty20]

Personally, as I sweep our own chimney each year, I know how much soot comes out of it - and we only light the fire a few times a week. You can do it yourself, Screwfix do the rods and brush for about �30.

[Ice.Maiden]

You might get away with it if you don't have a huge roaring fire, but if you spot flames coming out of the chimney, put the fire out quickly. A chimney sweep won't cost you that much, and it's better to be safe than sorry. Apart from that - enjoy your open fire. I think they look and feel lovely.

[Reverandfunk]

buy a smoke pellet light it and see if the smoke goes up the chimney and not into the room

[theonlyone]

Get the sweep in , it's a messy job and not one I would want to do , also better safe than sorry !! Ring a sweep and see how much it costs.

[Teasy]

Thanks folks. I have a sweep booked for next week. Your right, it is better to be safe than sorry, I would spend all of Christmas hols, either not lighting fire and regretting it, or lighting fire and worrying the whole time.

It costs just �25 unless they find a birds nest (but wasnt told the cost of it if they do).