Cleaning outside pipe

I need some advice. I would like to know since I have a 6" pipe, what size should my brush be to clean the pipe with , I have a 6" brush, but it seems like it's tough at times to run the brush thru

 

I would imagine most on here will tell you to stick with the 6 inch brush.

 

6" brush for 6" pipe is proper. If you have a rippled flex liner its a little tougher to work than smooth wall pipe. They say not to use a metal bristled brush on metal pipe either. I used a brush and rods for years and this year I gave the Soot Eater a try, the brush and rods are back up use only now.

 

I'm using a poly brush, it's a double stainless steel pipe

 

I'm gonna order it right now, just seen the video, looks like it works well and easy...gonna try it out

 

A decent quality battery drill is a plus, the batteries don't go dead real quick. Also the kit comes with 18 foot of flex rod so if your flue is 18 foot or shorter your good and will not need extensions.

 

When I started using the poly brush, it was a real bugger to get it down the pipe.
I took some snips and cut a little off the bristles all the way around (not too much), tried it, did it again.....etc., until it went though with less resistance, yet still cleans the pipe.
Only took a few minutes.
I've heard gooder things about the Sooteater, and I'm curious what you think of it when you get a chance to use it.

 

I got a cleaning company coming to clean it on Tuesday so I'm going to see how dirty it was and how they clean it so I can do it myself from now on. I burn dry wood and hot so it shouldn't be too bad, I'll probably order it for spring season cause that's when I'll start the cleaning myself...

 

How tough is it to get to the top of the pipe?
Might just be easier to Sooteater the thing from below.

 

It isn't tough but in order for me to reach the cap I would need a little step stool, not safe on a slanted roof, that's why when I seen the Soot Eater I was like this is perfect for me, what should I do as far as the cap for future cleanings?

 

I'd guess the SE will take care of the cap, although the "string" might get a little mangled.
Small price for not needing to get on the roof.

 

Couple pics of the "pros" doing it would be welcome !!

After watching them, doing it yourself should be much easier