The combustion process when wood is burned is never complete. The smoke from a wood fire usually contains a dark brown or black substance which has a smoky odor. This tar like substance is called creosote, and it is found nearly everywhere in a wood heating system.

Wood has different characteristics. Certain types of wood release more heat than others. Hardwoods, such as oak, are denser than softwoods such as pine. Hardwoods will burn longer. Unseasoned green wood will burn with difficulty and produce more creosote.

Each time you burn a wood fire creosote is formed. Over time, it will build up inside your chimney. Creosote is a flammable material which can ignite causing a fire up in your chimney.

The CSL contains a mixture of special additives that are dispersed during the process of burning. The additives are released through the smoke and adhere to the creosote. A chemical reaction will take place for one to two weeks. During this time, the creosote may become brittle.

You continue to use your appliance, the heat from the fires will treat the creosote and may cause the creosote to disperse as a fine powder, or break away from the chimney wall and fall back into the firebox in the form of small particles.

Any remaining creosote is less likely to result in a chimney fire. It also is more brittle, allowing for easier and more effective mechanical removal.

Go to section 6: After you have used the CSL

 

How it Works