Many homeowners allow their fire to smolder until it burns itself out. As the fire begins to burn out more creosote is produced at the lower temperatures. Rather than allowing the fire to smolder, it should be extinguished .
Can creosote be burned off?
Creosote is a natural byproduct of burning wood in a wood stove or fireplace. ... One method to loosen crusty or tarry creosote so it flakes off and falls down into the firebox or fireplace is to burn aluminum cans in a very hot fire .
What happens when you burn creosote?
Difficulty breathing or the inability to breathe deeply may result from overexposure to the toxin. Shortness of breath is likely to occur as well. This might happen if you burn wood treated with creosote or if you’re in the area when someone else is burning it.
What can you burn to get rid of creosote?
Use the ACS Powder for the first 2 weeks to break down the really heavy duty creosote. Then use the regular ACS liquid spray every time you have a fire. Give it 5-6 sprays each fire to reduce creosote buildup and keep your chimney creosote-free.
What temperature does creosote catch fire?
With repeated heating and high moisture content, the ignition temperature of creosote is generally considered to be 451 degrees , the same as paper (also why the book is called Fahrenheit 451). As little 1/8′′ to 1/4′′ is needed to cause a significant creosote chimney fire.
How long will creosote last?
Creosote fencing lasts 47 to 64 years (average 54 years) according to a study published by the Forest Products Laboratory titled, “Long-Term Durability of Pressure-Treated Wood in a Severe Test Site.”
How often should you burn a creosote log?
For the best results, you should use one log for every 60 fires . If you’re not sure how frequently you use your chimney, keep track of every fire. You might hit 60 fires in two months, or it could take longer.
Will vinegar remove creosote?
Then, wipe down the entire exterior surface with a solution made of two parts water, one part white vinegar and a squirt of dish soap (which you can also use to clean the glass). Climb a sturdy ladder onto the roof. Remove the chimney cap and scrape away creosote, ash and soot with a stiff-bristled chimney brush.
Does burning a hot fire remove creosote?
One method to loosen crusty or tarry creosote so it flakes off and falls down into the firebox or fireplace is to burn aluminum cans in a very hot fire . While this method works, it does not clean the chimney of creosote completely, and chimney brush cleaning is still necessary.
How do you keep creosote from building on glass?
Clean your glass twice weekly with the ash and vinegar solution to avoid heavier creosote buildup. Commercial glass cleaners are available specially made for cleaning fireplace or stove glass.
How do I get rid of Level 3 creosote?
Sodium chloride , also known as table salt, is a simple chemical that is easy to find. Put a little salt in the fire while it is burning. The salt combines with the water in the burning wood to create a weak acid that travels up the chimney and dissolves small amounts of creosote.
What wood creates the most creosote?
In general, hardwoods like oak, ash, and beech are more difficult to ignite, but they last a long time. Softwoods like fir, pine and cedar make more smoke, and therefore more creosote.
How do I prevent creosote buildup in my chimney?
The best way to control creosote is to prevent its buildup by maintaining a briskly burning fire with dry, well-seasoned wood . Maintain a flue temperature exceeding 250 degrees Fahrenheit to prevent creosote condensation. Some new, more efficient stoves deliver more heat to the room than an open stove or fireplace.
Why is creosote banned?
Creosote, derived from coal tar, is widely used on utility poles, railroad ties and marine bulkheads. It is considered carcinogenic in high quantities , according to the federal Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry. The ban on the sale, manufacture or use of creosote would begin on Jan. 1, 2005.
How bad is creosote?
Irritated Skin – If you come into physical contact with creosote, you may notice rashes or other reactions. Irritated Eyes – Creosote can cause sensitivity to light or even symptoms that mirror chemical burns in your eyes.
What is the best alternative to creosote?
Our approved creosote substitute ‘ WOCO Creocote ‘ is a spirit oil-based, effective treatment for exterior wood. It has been developed as a safer (for the user) alternative to original creosote. It is still designed to be used to protect wood against rotting fungi and wood destroying insects on external timbers.
