Whoever owns a fireplace or stove should have it checked regularly by a chimney sweep. This is not only important for safety, but also for environmental protection and the longevity of the appliance.
One of the chimney sweep's tasks is to ensure the safety of the heating system. To do this, he cleans the chimneys and checks the exhaust pipes and the combustion air supply.
When cleaning, the chimney sweep removes the soot produced by wood combustion. This prevents a possible soot fire and saves energy and heating costs. In addition, malfunctions are detected and the enjoyment of a long-lasting fireplace is supported.
How regularly a chimney sweep has to come depends on two legal requirements. The inspection of operational and fire safety according to the KÜO (Kehr- und Überprüfungsordnung) usually takes place once or twice a year. The aim is to identify and remedy safety deficiencies in good time.
According to the 1st First Ordinance on the Implementation of the Federal Immission Control Act (BImSchV), regular emission measurements must be carried out. The type of regularity depends on the age of the combustion plant and the technology used. Accordingly, modern plants that emit fewer pollutants must be checked less frequently. The measurement interval can vary here from every two years to every five years.
The maintenance costs of a chimney sweep depend on the type of activity and the effort involved. Basically, however, costs of 30 to 50 euros per year can be expected. This money should be invested in any case, not only to meet the legal requirements. In addition to safety and environmental aspects, regular maintenance ensures the longevity of a fireplace and thus a long enjoyment of the fire.
Maintenance by the chimney sweep is not only required by law, but is also crucial for the safety and longevity of the stove system.
The money for maintenance by the chimney sweep is well invested in any case, in order to enjoy your home wood fire for a long time.