Creosote Sweeping Logs (CLS) or chimney sweeping logs do work to loosen and dry out tar-like creosote deposits on the inside of your chimney, making fireplace chimney creosote less flammable and reducing the chance of a chimney fire, the creosote sweeping log should never be an alternative to a real chimney cleaning.
How do creosote logs work?
Creosote sweeping logs known as CSL, also known as creosote chimney logs, chimney sweeping logs, or just sweeping logs all help loosen the creosote deposits inside of your chimney, the key word here is to loosen not sweep or clean.
See more in my post: “A CHIMNEY FIRE, 3 IMPORTANT THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW”
By simply burning a creosote log, just as you would regular wood logs in your fireplace, your chimney’s creosote deposits will dry up and take on a less flammable form preventing unwanted chimney fires.
There are many different types of these logs and people always ask me Do creosote logs work? so let me answer that below.
So Now I am going to change over to chimney sweeping mode and tell you the reality of these logs and talk about how they really work.
They do help to dry out tar-like creosote and change its composition to a less flammable substance, but the chimney cleaning log definitely does not magically sweep your chimney.
In turn, they are a good preventative measure to use on a regular basis, and your chimney sweep will be very happy when he comes to clean your chimney because all of those creosote deposits will come off much easier.
Take a look at my post about How to remove glazed creosote from a chimney here This post talks all about stage 3 creosote and the cleaning needed and the creosote remover powder that you will need to do this.
How to use chimney Sweeping Logs
So now let’s take a look at how to use a Creosote Sweeping Log or similar logs.
The easy steps below will help you get yours burning correctly.
The Creosote Sweeping log CSL has active minerals that help dry out the creosote while you are enjoying a relaxing evening by the fire, if you want to know how to use chimney sweeping logs this guide will be similar to other brands.
Total Burn Time:
The burn time can vary a bit but generally, this fire log has a burn time of 1:30 hours and that is more than enough time for it to do the trick.
Also see my post: “DOES BURNING ALUMINUM CANS IN A WOODSTOVE REALLY REMOVE CREOSOTE?”
Total Cost:
The CLS Chimney Sweeping Log costs around $65 USD, it can be bought in a two-pack and also by the box if needed
What you will need:
1 log on a small fireplace
2 Logs on a large fireplace
1 log in a wood-burning stove or insert
A fireplace or wood-burning stove with hot embers to start your CLS LOG
follow the steps below to get yours started and get that chimney magic working.
Steps to burning Creosote sweeping logs
Step 1
If you have not started a fire
Start by pulling the seams of the paper wrapper outward on both sides (they are folded inward), by doing this you are creating an airspace between the log and the paper wrapper, this will allow for a better burn and make it easier to catch fire.
I like to light the log from both ends to get it started so you can light both sides if you like, this is really my own personal preference when burning.
Step 2
If you have started a fire
If you already have a fire started wait till it burns down to embers, then for the best results place the log onto the hot embers, not on a burning fire, this will give you the best results because the hot air in the chimney will activate the ingredients in the fire log, placing the Creosote sweeping log on embers will prevent downdraft.
For large fireplaces, you can burn 2 logs at once with each 1 foot apart for the best results.
Can you burn wood with a creosote log?
Yes, you can burn Creosote Sweeping Logs with regular natural logs of wood, but the best way to burn a chimney cleaning log is after a fire on the hot coles from the wood that has almost burned out, this is because your chimney is hot and the creosote in it also and the active ingredients in the log work best in a hot chimney.
This works the same way if you burn a Creosote Sweeping Log in a wood stove or wood-burning insert.
How long does a Creosote Sweeping Log burn?
Creosote sweeping logs and other chimney sweeping logs will burn for up to 90 minutes and if you have a large fireplace you can burn 2 at a time for better results.
And if you would like to have a longer fire you can burn one after another in a larger fireplace.
How often should I use Creosote Sweeping Logs?
- If you only have 1 fire or less each week it is recommended that you use 1 creosote sweeping log at the beginning or middle of your burn season.
- If you have one fire each day you should use 2 logs per burn season, one at the start and one in the middle.
- And if you have a continuous fire all winter then you should burn a log every 2 months for best results.
Take a look at some other highly rated creosote-removing products that can help slow down creosote accumulation in your wood-burning appliance.
Can I use a Creosote Sweeping Log in a wood stove?
Yes, you can use a Creosote Sweeping Log in a wood stove, but it is good to take a few measures before your do, and this way you will get the best results.
- Put your catalytic converter into inactive mode.
- Make a normal fire and wait for it to reach the proper temperature to operate the catalytic converter properly.
- Put the log on the hot embers and open your stove door to bring in the fresh air, the more the better.
- Do not put the log on fire with flames.
Call your local Chimney Sweep for a cleaning
The average cost to hire a chimney sweep depends a lot on where you live in the USA or Canada, normally the cost of a chimney cleaning and inspection is $150 to $350 and this can change if you need an inspection is done and the level of that inspection, but this cost is well worth every penny to have a safe living environment when looking for a chimney sweep make sure they are a certified technician.
For a list of chimney technicians in the USA to find a chimney sweep near me click the link.
To find a chimney sweep near you in Canada, click this link
don’t ever rely only on chimney sweeping logs, chimney cleaning logs, or creosote sweeping logs CLS to clean your chimney, think of them as an extra safety measure.
These logs do not extend the time you have between cleanings either.
Chimney Sweeping Log FAQs
Can You Burn Wood With a Creosote Log?
Yes, according to the search results, creosote logs can be used with any type of wood-burning fire, including fireplaces, wood stoves, fireplace inserts, gas starter fireplaces, wood/coal stoves, wood/oil mixed boilers, and wood furnaces. They work well for all types of fires and can help remove dirt from the fire and keep creosote from building up too quickly in the chimney. (source: Fix It In The Home)
Are Creosote Logs Toxic?
According to the search results, creosote sweeping logs can potentially pose health hazards if used improperly due to the chemicals they contain. Copper sulfate in the logs can cause skin and eye irritation, while ammonium sulfate can cause respiratory irritation.
The Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) has also identified health effects associated with creosote exposure.
However, the Chimney Safety Institute of America has tested and approved creosote sweeping logs, and experts say they can be effective in drying out creosote and causing it to fall into the firebox. So while creosote sweeping logs may contain potentially harmful chemicals, their use is generally considered safe when used as directed. (sources: The Nifty House, WoodsMan Report, ATSDR)
How Often Should You Burn a Creosote Log in a Wood Stove
According to the search results, creosote logs are effective when used for every 60 fires in a wood-burning stove. It is also recommended to clean your chimney once a year and replace the creosote log if needed. Keep an eye on the fire and add more fuel as necessary so you don’t waste any of the creosote logs.
How To Use a Creosote Sweeping Log?
How to use a chimney sweeping log? first, remove the log from its packaging and place it on the grate of your fireplace or wood stove. Follow the instructions on the packaging, which typically involve lighting the log and letting it burn for the recommended amount of time.
The creosote sweeping log will release chemicals that will help break down the creosote buildup in your chimney, making it easier to clean. It is important to note that while creosote sweeping logs can be effective in reducing creosote buildup, they are not a substitute for regular chimney maintenance and cleaning by a professional. (source: The CSL – The official Chimney Sweeping Log Website)
How Long Does a Creosote Sweeping Log Burn?
According to the search results, a creosote sweeping log typically burns for about 90 minutes. During this time, it releases chemicals that help break down and reduce creosote buildup in your chimney. After the log has burned completely, it is recommended to wait at least 24 hours before using your fireplace or wood stove again.
It is also important to note that while creosote sweeping logs can be effective in reducing creosote buildup, they are not a substitute for regular chimney maintenance and cleaning by a professional. (source: Willard Duct Cleaning)
Do chimney cleaning fire logs work? final thoughts
So, Do chimney sweeping logs work? Yes, and the Creosote Sweeping logs are one of the better-known logs on the market, but other brands are similar and will work too, I recommend reading and following the instructions on the fire log you buy because each log may differ when burning.
Remember these logs do not replace a regular chimney sweep, and inspection but do help in making creosote less flammable, please be safe and have your chimney swept before using your fireplace or wood-burning stove, thank you for reading and I hope you enjoyed this post on how to use chimney sweeping logs if you did please leave a comment below or share with the buttons on the side or bottom of your screen.