Expert: James Ball - 3/12/2009

Question
james,

I installed a wood insert at the beginning of this season. I had a stainless 6in flex liner installed the entire length of the chimney with a cap. it was installed by pros and worked great. I burned about 3 cords of seasoned wood. I then burned a cord of unseasoned. I was told I would get longer burn out of the unseasoned. I did but now I have a ton of smoke when I open the door coming back into my house. I had a fantastic draft but its gone now. can a flex liner be cleaned with a brush? I don't want to have someone come in and ruin it but I am assuming the cord of unseasoned wood I burned screwed my liner up. I have read there is some kind of screen normaly at the top to stop sparks. I was going to see if it was caked and attempt to clean it. I am afraid to use the stove because the last thing I want is a chimney fire. any advise you can give would be great.  thanks

Answer
Hello Michael, I am not surprised you have poor draft after burning 4 cord's of wood, one of which was unseasoned. It does sound like you need a good cleaning. )Un seasoned wood just builds up more creosote, and less heat)
I would have a local Certified Chimney Sweep (www.csia.org, there you can look up by zip code to find one near you) take a first hand look at what you have they should be able to help and make sure the liner/insert is installed correctly.
keep me posted
James