The Camden Fires Maintenance Checklist

There’s nothing quite like that first fire of the season. The evenings get cooler, the light changes, and suddenly all you want is a cosy corner with a crackling flame. But before you strike that match, it’s worth taking a little time to check that your fireplace or stove is ready for the months ahead.

At Camden Fires, we don’t just install fireplaces. We help our customers get the very best from them year after year. So here’s a practical and friendly checklist to make sure your fire is safe, clean, and ready to go.

1. Start With a Chimney Sweep

If your fire has not been used in a while, do not assume it is good to go. Even if everything looks fine, soot and tar-like creosote can build up in the flue, especially if the stove has been burning wood that’s not properly seasoned. Left unchecked, this build-up is one of the leading causes of chimney fires in the UK.  It is one of those jobs that is easy to forget but essential for safety.

We offer full chimney sweep services and recommend booking early in the season. A clean chimney helps reduce fire risk and improves performance.

2. Give Your Stove a Quick Health Check

Take a look inside. Are the firebricks cracked. Any rust around the door frame. If you shut a piece of paper in the door and it slides out easily, the seal may need replacing.

Not sure what to look for. No problem. Our servicing team can take care of it and make sure your stove is safe and ready.

3. Clear Out the Ash and Dust

Even if you cleaned it last spring, ash and dust settle over time. Empty the ash pan, vacuum the firebox, and wipe the glass with a safe cleaner.

If you need supplies, we stock stove tools, glass cleaners and log baskets in our showroom or online.

4. Light a Test Fire

Before winter hits properly, light a small fire to see how everything performs. Watch for signs of poor airflow or smoke coming into the room.

It is also the perfect time to test your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. Small step. Big peace of mind.

5. Use the Right Kind of Fuel

We recommend kiln dried logs with a moisture content under 20 percent. Poor fuel burns cooler, creates more smoke and builds up soot faster.

If you are not sure what to order, we are happy to recommend good local suppliers that meet the Ready to Burn standard. 

6. Think About a Service or an Upgrade

If your stove has not had a service in a year or two, it is time. We check seals, clean parts, and make sure it is running safely and efficiently.

And if you are considering an upgrade, we supply and fit a wide range of wood burning, gas, and electric models. Something cleaner. Something more efficient. Or just something that looks the part.

7. Dress the Hearth for Autumn

You do not have to light a fire to enjoy the look of one. Stack logs neatly. Add a few lanterns or candles. A touch of foliage. A wool throw.

Looking for ideas. Come visit our showroom and take a look around. We love to help bring your vision to life.

Quick Checklist

• Book a chimney sweep
• Check firebricks and seals
• Clean out the ash and firebox
• Test your fire and alarms
• Use dry approved fuel
• Book a service if needed
• Explore new models if upgrading
• Add a few seasonal touches

How Can We Help

At Camden Fires, we care about quality. Whether you need help with maintenance, want to book a sweep, or you are looking for something brand new, we are ready to support you.

Visit www.camdenfires.co.uk for more information or come and say hello. We are here to keep your home warm and wonderful.