As the leaves start to turn and the evenings draw in, there’s nothing quite like the warm glow of a log burner to create a cosy atmosphere at home. Autumn is the season when many households dust off their stoves after a summer break, ready to face the first crisp nights of September and October.
But before you strike that first match of the season, it’s important to make sure your stove and chimney are in top condition. A little preparation now can save you from costly repairs, inefficient burning, or even safety risks later in the winter.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to do to prepare your log burner for autumn 2025, from essential maintenance to fuel choices and finishing touches for a snug, safe home.
Book a Chimney Sweep Early
The number one task before lighting your stove this autumn is to have your chimney swept. During months of use, creosote and soot build up inside the flue. If left unchecked, these deposits can restrict airflow, reduce stove efficiency, and most importantly, increase the risk of a chimney fire.
Professional sweeps recommend at least one sweep per year, but if you use your stove heavily, you may need it done more often. Autumn is the busiest season for sweeps, as everyone remembers they need it done at once, so booking early in September gives you the best chance of avoiding long waiting lists.
Remove soot, ash, and creosote deposits.
Check for obstructions such as bird nests.
Spot early signs of flue damage or deterioration.
Think of it like a car MOT, regular maintenance keeps everything running safely.
Inspect Your Stove and Flue
Once your chimney is swept, turn your attention to the stove itself. After sitting unused during summer, parts of your log burner may need a quick once-over before they’re ready for action.
Here’s what to check:
Door Seals (Gaskets): Close the stove door and slip a piece of paper between the frame and the seal. If you can pull it out easily, the gasket may be worn and need replacing. A tight seal is crucial for efficient burning.
Glass: Wipe down the stove glass with a specialist cleaner. Check for cracks or chips; these can spread when exposed to heat.
Firebricks: Look inside the stove. Firebricks protect the stove body from extreme temperatures. Small hairline cracks are normal, but if a piece has crumbled away, it’s time for a replacement.
Paintwork: Touch up scuffs or rust spots with stove paint to prolong the life of the appliance and keep it looking smart.
Flue Pipe Joints: Look for leaks or gaps where smoke could escape into the room. Sealing compounds and replacement flue sections may be needed.
This inspection can be done by a competent homeowner, but if in doubt, book a stove service with a HETAS-approved engineer.
Choose the Right Fuel for Autumn
Your stove is only as good as the fuel you burn. Using the wrong type of wood, or worse, damp logs, leads to poor heat, excess smoke, and dangerous creosote build-up.
For autumn 2025, here’s what to stock up on:
Seasoned Hardwood: Oak, ash, and beech are dense, slow-burning, and produce long-lasting heat. Make sure moisture content is below 20%.
Kiln-Dried Logs: Convenient and ready-to-burn, these give maximum efficiency and are widely available.
Avoid Softwood in Cold Weather: While pine and spruce light easily, they burn quickly and produce more creosote. Better for kindling than long burns.
Smokeless Fuels: If you own a multi-fuel stove, you can use smokeless coal. Always check that it’s compatible with your appliance and DEFRA regulations.
Tip: Store logs in a dry, ventilated log store, ideally off the ground and with the top covered but sides open for airflow.
Light the First Burn of the Season
The first fire after a summer break feels special, but it’s also a chance to ease your stove back into action.
Air Out the Stove: Open the air vents fully to establish a strong draft.
Start Small: Build a small fire with kindling and a couple of logs to gently warm the stove and flue. This prevents thermal shock and allows moisture to evaporate.
Check for Smoke: Keep an eye out for smoke leaking into the room or unusual smells. These could signal a flue problem or poor ventilation.
Gradually Increase: Once the stove is warmed through, add more logs to build a steady fire.
This gentle first burn helps preserve the life of your stove and sets you up for a reliable season ahead.
Carry Out Safety Checks
Safety should always come first when using a log burner. Before autumn gets into full swing, run through this essential checklist:
Carbon Monoxide Alarm: Test it and replace batteries if needed. Position alarms at head height, not too close to the stove.
Ventilation: Ensure air vents and grilles are unblocked. A log burner needs a good supply of oxygen to burn cleanly.
Clearances: Move any furniture, rugs, or decorations that have crept too close to the stove over summer. The recommended clearance is usually 800mm to combustibles.
Fire Guard: If you have young children or pets, install a guard around the stove to prevent accidents.
Fire Extinguisher/Blanket: Keep one nearby just in case.
A few minutes spent checking these items can give you peace of mind for the whole season.
Add Cosy Finishing Touches
With your stove cleaned, inspected, and safe, it’s time for the fun part: creating a warm, inviting atmosphere in your home.
Here are some ideas to set the tone for autumn:
Log Storage: A stylish log basket or metal stand keeps fuel within reach while adding rustic charm.
Hearth Décor: Place a lantern, some dried autumn leaves, or seasonal garlands nearby (but not too close to the stove!).
Lighting: Warm-toned lamps and candles complement the soft glow of the fire.
Textiles: Add thick throws, cushions, and rugs to make your living space extra snug.
Hygge Inspiration: Embrace the Danish concept of comfort by creating a space for reading, tea-drinking, and winding down by the fire.
Your log burner is more than a heat source, it’s the heart of the home in autumn.
Get Winter-Ready with SGS Lakeland
Autumn 2025 is the perfect time to get your log burner in shape before the cold weather really sets in. By booking a chimney sweep early, inspecting your stove, stocking up on quality fuel, and carrying out essential safety checks, you’ll ensure your stove is efficient, safe, and ready to keep your home warm right through the season.
If you’re based in Cumbria, the Lake District, or Lancashire and need help with chimney sweeping, stove servicing, repairs, or installation, SGS Lakeland is here to help. Our HETAS-approved engineers have years of experience in keeping homes cosy and safe.
Don’t wait until the first frosty night, book your autumn service now and enjoy peace of mind, knowing your stove is ready for the season ahead.
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