CLEANFLUE NI CUSTOMER INFORMATION
Troubleshooting Guide
Common problems and safer next steps
Problems can happen. If you are unsure, a problem continues, smoke enters the room, or a carbon-monoxide alarm activates, stop using the appliance and seek professional or emergency help as appropriate.
COMMON PROBLEMS, CAUSES & NEXT STEPS
| Problem | Possible causes | What you can do |
|---|---|---|
| Smoke entering the room | Blocked chimney or flue; poor ventilation; downdraught; negative room pressure | Stop using the appliance if unsafe. Check ventilation and have the chimney/flue checked and cleaned; a suitable cowl may help where downdraught is confirmed. |
| Fire is hard to light | Damp fuel; insufficient airflow; cold chimney | Use dry seasoned wood, fully open the controls and warm the flue only by a method approved in the appliance instructions. |
| Poor burn or low heat | Damp/poor fuel; incorrect air settings; dirty glass or blocked air inlets | Use dry seasoned fuel, set controls correctly, clean the glass and clear air vents. |
| Soot build-up | Wood too wet; controls closed too far; low flue temperature | Use wood below 20% moisture, increase air appropriately and arrange regular sweeping. |
| Excess heat / over-firing | Too much air; incorrect fuel | Reduce air in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and use only the correct fuel. |
| Condensation | Flue too cold; poor insulation; low burning temperatures | Allow time to reach operating temperature, investigate flue insulation where appropriate and avoid prolonged low-temperature burning. |
| Rattling noises | Loose components; normal expansion/contraction; flue debris | Stop and check accessible fittings only when cold; some expansion noise is normal, but persistent noise or debris requires inspection. |
BEFORE YOU CALL — QUICK CHECKLIST
- Is the fuel dry and suitable?
- Are air vents open and unobstructed?
- Is the chimney/flue clean and clear?
- Is there adequate room ventilation?
- Is the cap or cowl clear of debris?
- Has the appliance reached operating temperature?
WHEN TO CALL A PROFESSIONAL
Arrange professional help if smoke continues to enter the room, you suspect a structural or flue fault, there are cracks, leaks or damage, you smell fumes, a CO alarm activates, anyone feels unwell, or the problem persists after basic checks.
Do not continue using an appliance that may be unsafe.
CARBON MONOXIDE EMERGENCY
If a carbon-monoxide alarm sounds: open doors and windows if safe, turn off fuel-burning appliances only if safe to do so, evacuate everyone from the property, and call the emergency services. Seek urgent medical advice if anyone is unwell. Never ignore the alarm or re-enter until advised it is safe.
At least annually to keep the flue clear and safe.
Use seasoned wood below 20% moisture.
Check for early signs of damage and blockage.
CO alarms save lives; never ignore warning signs.