Expert: James Ball - 12/11/2008

Question
Hello and thank you for your time,

I have a wood fireplace insert and would like to know you opinion about some of the anit creosote removers on the market.  I get my chimney sweep/inspected every year by a CSIA Certified Professional.  This is my first year with my insert and many of the local fire shops in the area recommend using a spray that will help combat creosote.  I am burning seasoned wood (to the best of my knowledge, some of the wood was bought.) I am noticing a small amount of creosote in the bottom left corner of the unit.  I understand this will dissipate if I burn the fire near a temperature of 600 degrees.  My concern is that I will over heat the unit or inhale some of the toxic chemicals over time from the spray.  What is the safest way to use this unit and get rid of the creosote?


Answer
Hello John, what does the insert owners manual say about how to burn that unit? as far as Creosote removal, read and follow the directions on the container and find one that you feel better about using (some are powder you sprinkle on the fire other you spray...) and what did the Certified Sweep that cleans the unit suggest? with any new unit it may take some time to get use to how to use it. also is this unit lined all the way to the top? if not you may want to talk to your sweep about lining and insulating all the way to the top.
James