Creosote and tar removal

Types of Creosote

 

 

In total there are four levels of creosote: 1st Degree, 2nd Degree, and 3rd Degree creosote.  The final stage, 4th Degree is as a result of a Chimney Fire.

 

1st Degree is a light, fine powder that tells us the system is burning well.  1st Degree can be cleaned without issue. This is usually swept away using power sweeping technology, and usually consists of soot, Ash and sulpher in the case of smokeless fuel.

 

2nd Degree is a granular creosote that is still able to be cleaned but tells us that something is not right in how the fireplace/stove is operating and that we should start looking at a remedy before it turns to third degree. This could be due to burning wet/unsuitable wood or insufficient flue gas temperature. it can also somtimes be sticky, this leads on to the 3rd stage.

 

3rd Degree creosote or Tar is incredibly hard and dense as it forms in layers upon layers.  It is so hard that it can not be cleaned with conventional tools.

 

Cre-Away™ - How it works:

 

Cre-Away™ is a four component powder that safely and effectively modifies glazed or 3rd Degree creosote so that it can be more easily removed by chimney sweeping.

 

Firstly, a reactive agent neutralises the slightly acidic creosote making it less corrosive to metal components and less flammable.

 

Secondly, a dehydrator absorbs the oils and moisture contained in some forms of creosote. Combustion inhibitors also help to reduce the chance of a chimney fire.

 

Finally, a magnesium catalyst helps break down 3rd Degree creosote when the flue is heated by normal use.

 

The time it takes to chemically modify third-degree creosote with Cre-Away™ will depend on many variables such as:

 

Type Of Wood Used.

Moisture Content.

Burning Habits.

Air Flow.

Flue Size.

Amount Of Existing Build-up.

 

In some cases reaction time is fairly fast, within a week or two. Other more difficult build-up problems may require regular use and multiple cleanings during the heating season to completely modify the existing 3rd Degree creosote.

 

During heating and cooling cycles the treated creosote loses it’s adhesive properties so it can be more easily removed.

It is then removed using our power sweeping equipment.

 

 

Every fireplace is as individual as it’s owner. Please contact us to arrange for a survey and quote.