Chimney Sweeping: Our Step by Step Process

chimney sweep

How We Sweep Your Chimney – Step by Step

A clean chimney isn’t just about efficiency—it’s about safety and peace of mind.

Our professional chimney sweep service in Cheshire keeps your stove or open fire safe, clean, and working efficiently.

Whether you use your stove daily or only in colder months, regular chimney sweeping is essential to prevent soot build up, improve airflow, and reduce the risk of chimney fires.

In the guide below, we walk you through our professional sweeping process, step by step, so you know exactly what to expect when you book your sweep. We are Hetas registered chimney sweeps. For official safety guidance, see the HETAS chimney safety information.

1. Prepare and Protect the Work Area

Firstly we begin by laying dust sheets to prepare and protect your floor and surrounding area from soot and debris.

Dust sheeting the work area

2. Inspect Stove Seals and Ropes

Next we inspect the stove, all seals and ropes, replacing any parts that are worn or damaged.

Inspecting stove seals and rope

3. Remove Internal Stove Components

Then all internal stove parts—like baffles and bricks—are removed to allow full access to the flue.

Removing internal stove components

4. Insert Sweeping Rods Through the Stove Opening

We insert flexible sweeping rods through the stove opening, with a sweeping sheet in place, and extended up the chimney.

Inserting sweeping rods through stove

5. Attach the HEPA Vacuum Cleaner

We connect a high-efficiency HEPA vacuum cleaner to the sweeping sheet and turn it on to ensure maximum dust control.

HEPA vacuum attached

6. Sweep the Chimney

The chimney is thoroughly swept using rotating rods and specialist brushes to remove soot and creosote build up.

Sweeping the chimney

7. Remove Soot and Debris

Then we vacuum out all soot and debris from the chimney and stove body, leaving a clean and safe system.

Vacuuming soot from chimney

8. Reassemble the Stove

Then all the internal stove components are reassembled back in the stove and checked for alignment and stability.

Reassembling stove internals

9. Clean the Stove Glass and Body

Then we clean the stove glass window and wipe down the stove body to restore its original look and remove any residue.

Cleaning stove glass

10. Perform a Smoke Test (Door Closed)

A smoke pellet is used with the stove door closed to check for proper draw and chimney function this performs the smoke test.

Performing smoke test

11. Smoke Test (Door Open, Vents Closed)

We close all air vents and open the stove door to allow smoke to fill the stove. This helps detect any leaks or seal failures.

12. Check Carbon Monoxide Alarm

We verify the presence and functionality of a carbon monoxide alarm near the stove for your safety.

13. Inspect Chimney from Outside

We step outside to confirm that smoke is exiting the chimney and inspect the condition of the cowls for damage or blockage.

14. Remove Dust Sheets

All protective coverings are removed, leaving your home clean and soot-free thanks to our HEPA system and care taken throughout.

15. Issue the Chimney Sweeping Certificate

Finally, we issue a certificate confirming the sweep, which can be used for insurance and maintenance records.


Ready for a Cleaner, Safer Chimney?

Regular chimney sweeping keeps your stove running efficiently and your home safe from fire risks and harmful gases. With our professional equipment, expert care, and attention to detail, you can relax knowing your chimney is in good hands.

Don’t wait for problems to arise — book your sweep today and enjoy peace of mind all year round.

Book Your Chimney Sweep Now or give us a call on 0161 973 0952 to schedule your appointment.