Getting your stove ready for autumn

Before you light the first fire of the season, a few minutes of checks will keep your stove safe and efficient all winter.

Your pre-season checklist

• Book your annual sweep before the cold sets in
• Check the door rope seal — a gentle tug tells you if it’s perished
• Inspect the fire bricks and baffle plate for cracks
• Test your carbon monoxide alarm and replace the battery
• Bring in a supply of properly dry logs

If anything looks worn, mention it when you book your sweep and we’ll take a look. It’s far cheaper to replace a rope seal or fire brick than to run a stove that’s leaking heat — or worse.