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    General

  1. What is a chimenea?
  2. Should I buy clay, cast iron or steel?
  3. Where do I site my chimenea?
  4. How do I start a fire in my chimenea?

    Maintenance

  5. Will chimeneas change colour?
  6. How do I reduce the effects of corrosion?
  7. Will the surface get hot?
  8. Can I cook on my chimenea?

    Clay Chimeneas

  9. Why do I have to cure and put sand in the bottom of my chimenea?
  10. Can I have a roaring fire?
  11. Cracking and Sealing
  12. Protecting your chimenea from weather

What is a chimenea?

An enclosed real fire for your patio or garden. Chimeneas allow you to gently heat an area of your garden or patio so that you can enjoy your outdoor space for longer.

Should I buy clay, cast iron or steel?

Clay chimeneas originated from Mexico and are authentic and more natural looking. Cast iron and steel chimeneas are made to our high standards in the Far East and have the same function as clay chimeneas. Clay chimeneas need a little more care and attention to avoid breakage. Cast Iron and steel chimeneas are more durable. Really it is a matter of personal taste as to which chimenea you choose..

How do I start a fire in my chimenea?

Please read all instructions first as some products require extra preparation – all clay chimeneas must be cured before use. Light kindling should be used to start a small controlled fire. Once this is going it can then be added to with larger pieces. This should be repeated until the fire is substantial enough to burn a log. Please note fuel should never protrude from the front opening of the chimenea and flames should never be visible from the top of the chimney flue.

DO NOT use petrol, white spirit, lighter fuel, alcohol or similar items to light a fire.
We recommend that you use La Hacienda heat logs or untreated wood fuel. In some cases charcoal can be used, please check the instructions for your model.

Will chimeneas change colour?

Yes, clay chimeneas generally have a paint finish that will mellow and change over time. If the chimenea is fired very hot, it will discolour more quickly. Cast Iron and Steel chimeneas will develop surface rust over time. This is not a fault and the chimenea will not rust through.

Clay chimeneas should be sealed with a water proof sealant each year, or more frequently depending on how often the chimenea is used.

We recommend that all chimeneas are stored covered with a La Hacienda rain cover. Ensure your product is cold before covering..

How do I reduce the effects of corrosion?

Metal chimeneas will develop surface rust over time, more so if burnt very hot or left uncovered in the rain. After use, rub your chimenea down with an oily rag and cover with the appropriate chimenea cover, to help reduce the effects of corrosion. If you want to renew the finish, coat with a high temperature paint .

Will the surface get hot?

Yes – it will get very hot, keep children & pets at a safe distance from the chimenea when in use.





Where do I site my chimenea?

A chimenea is suitable for positioning outdoors on firm, level and non-flammable ground. The assembled chimenea is heavy and it is recommended the unit is not moved once positioned and must not be moved while in use. The body of the chimenea will become very hot during use so it should be positioned at least 2metres away from walls, fences and other structures. A minimum overhead clearance of 2metres is also required.

Cracking and Sealing

The drying process during manufacture can often result in minor hairline cracks on the surface of the chimenea. This is normal and will not affect use. Hairline cracks will also appear in a clay chimenea after burning and this too is normal. The chimenea will function perfectly well for many years like this.

Your chimenea has been pre-sealed but after use, the seal begins to break down (especially if burnt too hot). Use a clay or brick water sealer and coat every 2 or 3 months. La Hacienda Chimseal is ideal.

Protecting your chimenea from weather

You should cover your chimenea as this keeps the rain out. Many come with rain covers that should be used, especially over winter. Only apply when the chimenea is completely cool.

If rain does get in your chimenea the clay will soak up moisture. However the chimenea can still be used but start the fire very slowly afterwards to allow the moisture to steam off slowly. Trapped moisture that expands too fast can crack the chimenea and stores-direct can not be held liable for such damage. If a lid is provided with your model, always place this on the chimenea top when not in use to protect from rainwater ingress.

Can I cook on my chimenea?

The intended purpose of our chimeneas is background outdoor heating. However some models have grills that can be used for basic barbecue cooking. Check your instructions for more details.

Why do I have to cure and put sand in the bottom of my chimenea?

No – the clay chimenea body holds heat and radiates it all around. A small to medium size fire is all that’s needed. Roaring fires with flames coming out of the top will damage or crack your chimenea..