Winter Fireplace Safety Tips

Winter Fireplace Safety Tips

Enjoy your fireplace safely with a Professional Chimney Inspection in Bristol CTThe weather is getting cooler and the Christmas decorations are out. There’s no doubt that firewood will be chopped for lighting up the fireplace this season. The most important thing is to have a professional chimney inspection and cleaning before that first fire. Chestnut roasting shouldn’t be the only thing on our minds. Safety is always a priority for responsible fireplace owners. The winter chimney care tips below will ensure that your fireplace is a thing of beauty and not a hazard.

Use Quality Firewood

You may get a lot of cheap firewood for your buck but you will pay for it in other ways. For example, woods like Pine leave a lot of residue called creosote in your chimney. This can clog up your chimney, allowing foul-smelling smoke to fill your home. A wood like Oak is dense, burns clean and will also burn longer. This is essential for the air quality in your home and the life of your fireplace. Clear away built-up creosote with a professional chimney cleaning.

Leave your Damper Open

A closed damper will keep smoke and harmful gases inside your home instead of allowing them to escape properly. An open damper is essential for airflow. It will also encourage outside air to come in and keep the fire going as long as you want it to but be sure and close the damper once your fire has gone cold and the embers are completely dead. You know this is the case when all that remains in the fireplace is ash and there are no glowing embers present.

Dispose of Ashes Properly

Have your chimney cleaned for the winter months in New Britain CTMany fires occur because of ashes being dumped in dangerous ways. The safest way to get rid of ashes is to make sure they are properly cooled and then placed in a fireproof container with a lid. The best practice is to keep this container away from anything flammable including wood or linen and at a distance of at least 10 feet from your home or other buildings.

Mind your Fire

Never leave a fire unattended. It may seem that fire escaping from the firebox is unlikely, however, it is completely possible for things next to a fireplace to overheat and catch on fire. Remember, It only takes one ember to start an uncontrollable fire, before turning in for the night or leaving the house, make sure the fire is COMPLETELY out and the damper is closed to prevent outside air from coming in and rekindling the fire.

Be Prepared with The Right Safety Equipment.

If you own a fireplace there are 3 pieces of safety equipment that are a must.

  • Fire Extinguisher – ideally every home should have a fire extinguisher that is effective against all kinds of fires; including wood, paper, burning liquids, and electrical fires. Fire extinguishers today are easy to use and some are available for under $50
  • Carbon Monoxide Detector – many people forget that carbon monoxide can be a danger with fireplaces. Carbon Monoxide is an invisible, odorless gas that can cause serious illness and even death when inhaled.
  • Smoke Alarm – This goes without saying but smoke alarms are imperative. They can alert you to dangers while you sleep or if you have stepped out of the room for longer than expected. If you do not have a smoke alarm, get one and if you do have them, be sure and test them as often as every month.

Don’t let the warm glow of a fire lull you to sleep without taking the necessary precautions that will ensure your family’s safety. Our chimney sweeps are CSIA certified and ready to assist you with any issues you may have.

This post first appeared on https://www.mychimney.com

What You Need to do in Preparation for a Chimney Sweep

A fireplace takes the chill from the cold during winter. However, the age, weather, and combustion by-products like creosote impacts the chimney’s performance and create a safety hazard. Therefore, it is important to schedule with chimney cleaning services for a professional touch. This is to make sure that your heating appliances operate safely and efficiently. While the chimney sweepers will do the majority of the work.

Here are the things you need to do in order to make sure that you are prepared when they come to your house.

Keep Your Pets Away

You might have a pet who wants to be around you all the time, or you might have a pet who thinks that it is their job to protect you from intruders. In that case, dogs must be kept away from when the chimney sweeper works on your chimney. You should enclose the pets in a different room or yard to prevent any trouble from happening. In addition, you want your pets to be safe when they come.

Make Sure that The Fireplace is Not Hot

The fireplace must be cool to the touch so the chimney sweeper can do their job properly. You must not avoid the fireplace or stove between 24 to 48 hours before your appointment to give it enough time for the interior masonry to cool down. You can remove leftover ashes coming from the fireplace that you need to recycle in your garden. Otherwise, the cleaners will get rid of their ashes.

Clear the Firebox and Mantle

In order to prepare for the inspection, you would want to get rid of any decorations or items that come from the mantle, when your cleaner accidentally knocks them over during inspection. If there are logs or ashes left in the firebox, these can be removed once you allow all of them to cool down. You must only directly touch the fireplace if you have already given it enough time to cool down.

Remove Objects Such as Furniture or Toys That Block the Fireplace Access

The chimney sweep brings in professional equipment, supplies, tools, and supplies to scrub and clean your chimney and fireplace thoroughly. The technician will need clear access to your fireplace. This is a great time to make sure there aren’t any toys, furniture, or other objects that block the fireplace. In addition, the chimney inspector is going to put a drop cloth as protection for the firebox while cleaning. You might want to cover any furnishings nearby in case of any soot or dust particles floating in the air from the cleaning.

Open a Path from the Driveway to the Fireplace

The chimney sweep brings you different equipment in your home, so you need to make sure there is a clear path from the driveway, going to the front door, and through the home to your fireplace. A little rearranging of furniture, odds, and ends, and toys will make the trip safer and easier in the area where there is work to be done.

Be Prepared with Your Questions

If you have questions about the chimney or fireplace, you have noticed something off, you should make a note and ask them. The certified chimney sweepers are knowledgeable enough to answer all your questions.

if you need chimney sweep Ellicott City because it is time to hire their services, do not hesitate.  

 

The post Blog first appeared on First Class Chimney Services.

This post first appeared on https://www.firstclasschimneyservices.com

Winter Chimney Risks

For many of us, having a fireplace is part of owning a home.  Some look forward to winter to use it regularly.  Chimneys give us a welcoming environment even though wind and snow are blowing outside. Chimneys need maintenance, like many parts of a home; this is especially true in winter.  If a homeowner hasn’t had a chimney cleaning or inspection in a while, there could be multiple problems.

Some problems can emerge with your chimney when the weather gets cold.

chimney moisture damage, south windsor ctThe freeze and thaw effect.

The weather has a tremendous effect on the brick-and-mortar work in your chimney.  If rain falls and coats your chimney with water, that water makes its way into the porous areas of the chimney.  If the temperature drops below freezing, that water will turn to ice.  As the water turns to ice, it expands the small crevasses in both the brick and mortar.  When that ice thaws, it leaves cracks larger than before the freeze.  Imagine that happening several times during the winter.  If this process is left to its own devices, it’s only a matter of time before your chimney starts to crumble.

Obstructions in your chimney.

Although chimney blockages can happen any time of year, it is especially true in the winter.  If the chimney cap is not functioning correctly, this is an open invitation for animals seeking shelter from the cold.  It isn’t just the animals themselves; it is all the organic material they bring in or leave.  Birds, squirrels, and the occasional raccoon will not just block the chimney; they will leave droppings that are difficult and expensive to remove.

chimney flashing repair, simsbury ctLeaks, mildew, and mold

If you see water intrusion in the chimney brickwork, its next stop will be your roof or ceilings in your house.  If you see yellow or light brown stains surrounding the chimney, most likely, the damage has already been done.  This all comes because of the freezing and thawing effect.  There is a good chance mildew is already growing not just in the chimney but on your ceiling and in the walls surrounding it.  Mildew is bad, but mold, especially black mold, can be dangerous. Leaking water can do more than spread mold; it can rust metal parts of the chimney making it difficult to operate.

Making repairs to your chimney is not a do-it-yourself project.  It is time to call in the pros at Northeastern Chimney, LLC.  Our company has been in the business of cleaning, inspecting, and repairing chimneys for nearly 40 years.

All technicians have continuous training throughout the year.  We require all our techs to be up to date on the latest equipment and techniques for the best customer service.

Our techs have a trained eye to spot any problems concerning your chimney, both inside your home and out.  Our staff is certified by the Chimney Safety Institute of America.  Our company is active in working with the National Chimney Sweep Guild and the Chimney Safety Institute of America.

Northeastern Chimney, LLC is proud to service the West Hartford area.  If there is a problem with your chimney, call us.  Chimneys are all we do.

 

Northeastern Chimney, LLC

37 Cody Street

 West Hartford, Connecticut 06110

 Phone: 860-233-5770

 

This post first appeared on https://www.mychimney.com

How to Safely Operate a Gas Fireplace

new gas fireplaces, canton ctOnce the decision is made to install a gas fireplace into a home, the man of the house breathes a sigh of relief. He is no longer lugging in wood, no more splinters, ashes, cleanup, or all the other menacing chores that accompany a wood-burning fireplace.

However, some precautions still need addressing before a gas fireplace can be used.  Adhering to these few safeguards will make a gas fireplace reliable as well as enjoyable.

Get Your Fireplace Cleaned and Inspected

First things first.  Have a certified chimney company clean and inspect your chimney.  If there is debris in your chimney, it could catch fire.  If enough creosote is present, that too could ignite.

Purchase a Gas Fireplace with All Necessary Sensors

When shopping for a gas fireplace, make sure an oxygen-depletion sensor is installed with it.

The oxygen-depletion sensor causes the gas to shut off if the fireplace gets too cold or a carbon monoxide build-up.  Also, install a carbon monoxide sensor on every floor of the home.  Carbon monoxide is a lethal gas that is odorless and invisible.  Although instances are rare, the gas has killed families of homes without a sensor.

This Isn’t a Do-It-Yourself Project

Working with propane tanks and gas lines is dangerous.  To ensure the family’s safety, start by hiring a licensed gas fireplace installer.

Follow All Local Building Codes

Make sure your new fireplace will be up to local building codes.

Insist your contractor apply for and obtain a building permit for your gas fireplace.  There will be an inspection and another set of eyes on the work your contractor has completed.

Keep Little Hands Away From The Glass

The glass of a gas fireplace gets very hot.  Teach everyone in your home not to touch the glass to prevent burns.

Comply With The 3′ Rule

Make sure all furniture, rugs, toys, etc., are kept three feet from the glass of your gas fireplace. This time of year, especially, as the Christmas decorations are brought out.

cleaning gas fireplace logs, bloomfield ctGet The Gas Fireplace Logs Cleaned

It is recommended that the fireplace logs be cleaned annually.  A gas fireplace retailer can do this.  The technician will clean the logs and make them look their best.  Other functions will be checked, such as the fan and air circulation passages, checking the sensor batteries, ensuring all vents are unobstructed, and cleaning the glass.

Pay Attention

If the flames in your gas fireplace change or there is a funny smell, call your fireplace service professional.  If gas can be smelled, grab the phone, leave the house, and call 911.

No Shortcuts

It is always exciting for homeowners to get something new in their house.  Don’t take shortcuts when installing a new gas fireplace.  When the fireplace is safely installed, sit back, and relax and enjoy the ambiance.

Call Northeastern Chimney

Northeastern Chimney, LLC is your full-service fireplace and chimney company.   Our nearly four decades of service have taught us that satisfied customers are customers for life.  Many of our clients have been with us since we opened our doors.

Our company provides continuing education for our technicians.   Training on new techniques and new equipment are offered regularly to our staff.  Chimneys are at the mercy of the weather, age, and various other conditions.  Our technicians are trained in every aspect of cleaning, repair, and rebuilding.

If a chimney needs care, we will be there.

 

Northeastern Chimney, LLC

37 Cody Street

 West Hartford, Connecticut 06110

 Phone: 860-233-5770

This post first appeared on https://www.mychimney.com

Can I Prevent Creosote Buildup?

The chemical reaction that creates combustion when burning solid and liquid fuels produces several natural by-products, including creosote. Although we typically associate creosote build-up with wood-burning fireplaces, even gas fireplaces have some creosote.

creosote found in a chimney, prairie village ksCreosote is of particular concern because it hardens into a dark, tarry, and highly flammable substance that is very difficult to remove without regular chimney sweeping. In addition, the intense fireplace heat or a burning ember can spark a chimney fire that can damage the flue liner and quickly spread throughout the house resulting in significant property damage and injuries. According to National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) statistics, most residential structure fires are due to creosote build-up in the chimney.

How to Prevent Creosote Build-Up

Although you can’t eliminate creosote entirely when using the fireplace, there are several steps you can take to minimize creosote build-up.

Burn Seasoned Wood

Avoid burning fresh or green wood in the fireplace. The high moisture content in green woods produces smokier fires with more creosote. Instead, only burn hardwoods that have been seasoned or dried for six to twelve months. The lower moisture will make a cleaner, hotter, and longer-lasting fire with a lot less creosote. Some example hardwoods include ash, beech, birch, maple, and oak.

Watch For Airflow Restrictions

The chimney needs to draw sufficient draft to start and maintain a fire in the fireplace. However, small animals, leaves, twigs, and creosote buildup can cause a flue obstruction that restricts the airflow, impeding the performance of your fire. The incomplete combustion also produces smokier fires with more creosote. When flue obstructions are severe, a dangerous backdraft can occur that pushes smoke, creosote, and other debris out of the fireplace.

Warm the Flue Before Lighting the Fireplace

You can also help minimize creosote by warming the flue before lighting the fireplace. When the flue is cold, insufficient draft in the chimney can make it challenging to start and maintain a proper fire, thus producing more smoke and creosote. You can easily warm the flue by lighting a piece of cardboard or rolled newspaper and holding it under the flue until the draft reverses and goes up the flue.

chimney cleaning, leawood ksSchedule an Annual Chimney Inspection & Cleaning

Annual chimney inspections and cleanings are essential to preventing creosote build-up and ensuring your fireplace is safe to operate. When creosote accumulates in the chimney, it can cover the flue liner, smoke shelf, damper, and other critical components in a tarry, charcoal-like substance. You may also notice a distinct asphalt-like odor coming from the fireplace. During an annual inspection, a certified chimney technician will visually examine the entire chimney system, including vents and attached heating appliances for creosote buildup, flue obstructions, leaks, masonry damage, and other issues that can affect the safety and performance of your fireplace. When the chimney technician determines cleaning is necessary, it can often be accomplished during the same visit.

Signs of Creosote Buildup

According to the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA), an accumulation of 1/8” or more of creosote is hazardous and should be removed. Some of the signs of creosote buildup include:

  • Black soot around the fireplace
  • Insufficient draft
  • Poorly burning or smokey fires
  • Wood logs are not burning completely
  • Dark tar-like deposits on the damper

If you notice any of the above signs of creosote buildup, contact Fluesbrothers to schedule an appointment with a certified chimney technician in Lee’s Summit, Overland Park, and throughout the Kansas City KS/MO region.

The post Can I Prevent Creosote Buildup? appeared first on Fluesbrothers Chimney Service.

Can I Prevent Chimney Creosote Build Up?

creosote buildup in pipe, bristol ctThere isn’t any way to prevent creosote build up on the inside of your chimney.  Several feeble attempts were made to discover a process to inhibit build-up; sadly, none were successful.  We have found cleaning and inspection were the only way to make a chimney clean and safe.

DIY “Remedies” Homeowners Have Tried

To prevent anyone from repeating those mistakes, here are some ‘remedies’ some have tried.

  • Soot spray
  • Chemicals
  • Cleaning Logs
  • Burning aluminum cans
  • Burning potato peelings

The only technique having any positive results is, believe it or not, burning potato peelings.  Starting with uncooked potato peelings, you need to put the peelings directly on burning logs.  The chemical reaction provided by the peelings softens the creosote; regrettably, it does nothing to rid a chimney of it.  When all is said and done, nothing can replace an annual chimney cleaning and inspection.

Slow Down Creosote Build-Up

There are other ways to cut down on creosote. A frequently used chimney will have creosote regardless of what the homeowner does.  Burning season wood is an excellent start to a cleaner chimney.  Using ‘seasoned wood’ causes the flames to burn hotter and with less moisture.  Seasoning firewood doesn’t mean adding paprika and garlic; it means letting the wood dry, sometimes for a year or more before burning it.  Identifying the difference between the two can be tricky.

Using seasoned wood will slow the progression of creosote. Seasoned wood has the bark separating from the wood itself.  The seasoned wood will be darker in color. Some seasoned wood will take on a gray cast and will weigh less than greenwood.  When stacking the wood, seasoned wood will sound hollow when stacking.

Greenwood or unseasoned wood will have a slightly green cast to it.  Greenwood will be heavier than seasoned wood because of its moisture content.  Greenwood will also produce more smoke and more popping and crackling.  Since green wood will give off smoke, it is the smoke that carries the creosote up and on the walls of your chimney.

If you and your family are interested in finding the amount of moisture in your firewood, there are moisture meters.  An ideal moisture level in wood is around 15%.

video inspection of chimney flue, rocky hill ctChimney Creosote Can’t Be Fully Prevented

Back to our original question, Can I prevent creosote build-up?  The answer is No.  You can slow the build-up but, there is no magic formula.  The only fail-safe process is to have your chimney inspected annually, along with a chimney cleaning.  Not only will you have a clean chimney, but you will also have peace of mind that your chimney is safe to enjoy.

 

Call Northeastern Chimney, LLC

Northeastern Chimney, LLC has been servicing chimneys in the Central Connecticut area for 35 years.  Our staff is committed to keeping the West Hartford area safe by preventing chimney fires.  Our chimney technicians are customer-focused and results-driven to make sure your chimney is as safe as possible.  We are certified by the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA).  An organization committed to training with the latest equipment and services related to every chimney.

Our technicians arrive on time in clean crisp uniforms.  They strive to give all information to the homeowner so decisions can be made about the chimney.  The best part is they always clean up and try to leave the premises cleaner than when they came.

We look forward to serving you.

Northeastern Chimney, LLC

37 Cody Street

 West Hartford, Connecticut 06110

 Phone: 860-233-5770

This post first appeared on https://www.mychimney.com

Tips on the Safe Operation of Your Gas Fireplace

safe gas fireplace operation, olathe ksThe manufacturer that made your gas fireplace likely provided some kind of owner’s manual or operator’s guide, either on paper or online. That manual will tell you what you need to know about the safe operation of the unit. Here are some key principles you should keep in mind.

Gas fireplaces should burn gas, nothing else

Just because there’s a flame in the firebox doesn’t mean you can throw all kinds of stuff in there to build a fire. Only gas should burn in a gas fireplace. That means no wood, furniture, magazines, newspapers, plastics, metals or anything else. These other materials could release dangerous toxic gases and cause major problems for your fireplace/venting system.

Have a working carbon monoxide monitor in place

Carbon monoxide monitors are designed to alert you to the presence of this deadly gas in your air. It’s widely understood that carbon monoxide is potentially fatal to humans and animals when inhaled. You need a monitor, because you can’t smell or see carbon monoxide. Follow the directions in installing and maintaining the monitor.

Teach children about fireplace safety

If you have children, they need to understand that the fireplace is not a play area. For older kids, you can set a five-foot radius around the appliance that’s off limits. Younger children and pets need to be watched. Never leave young children alone in the room when a fire is burning.

Schedule annual gas fireplace inspections

While gas fireplaces require minimal maintenance, they do require a yearly safety inspection by a licensed, experienced technician. Your inspector will check the gas lines, the burner, the pilot light and other components. If damage or malfunction is spotted, you can get it fixed before it becomes a serious problem.

If you smell gas

Don’t rely only on your carbon monoxide monitor to detect a gas leak. Your nose is also a good monitor. If you smell gas in the vicinity of the fireplace:

  • If the fireplace is running, shut if off if safe to do so
  • Open several windows
  • If shutting off the unit doesn’t stop the gas odor, call 911 and leave the house
  • If shutting off does stop it, don’t use the fireplace again until it’s been inspected

Don’t place candles or other flames near the fireplace

Any flame close to your fireplace could cause an explosion should your fireplace begin leaking gas. Find other places for candles, lanterns, kerosene lamps and even incense.

fireplace installation and owner's manual, shawnee ksGet to know your owner’s manual

When a chimney professional installs your gas fireplace, they will give you the manufacturer’s fireplace manual. Several common “problems” you may be experiencing can easily be solved by you instead of paying a fireplace technician. (But never hesitate to call a professional if there’s something you can’t fix or prevent.)  If you don’t have an owner’s manual, you probably can find one online. If not, contact the manufacturer to acquire this document.

Keep your gas fireplace safe and working at its best

Fluesbrothers Chimney & Fireplace of Kansas City, KS, is here to help you with all your gas fireplace needs. We provide licensed fireplace inspection, vent system cleaning, fireplace repair, replacement of damaged components and more.

When in doubt, check it out with an expert. Call us today at (913) 236-7141.

The post Tips on the Safe Operation of Your Gas Fireplace appeared first on Fluesbrothers Chimney Service.

How to Start a Chimney Cleaning Business

If you want to own a chimney relining business, you can do it anytime. There is low competition here compared to other industries and since chimneys must be cleaned once a year, there is a recurring demand from the homeowners. You can combine this with a low startup cost, and the possibility of making healthy profits. In addition, your market is a niche.

However, there are still proper procedures before you can start this kind of business. You must be licensed and your staff should be properly trained before working on a house.

You will have a new career or another way to make a profit from your existing job. When you read this article, you will know how to start a chimney cleaning business the proper way. Read more about it now.

Have a Business Plan

Before you start a new venture, you must write a business plan to show the trajectory of your company. Successful companies thrive since their owners have a vision and are prepared for any industry changes, tax season, and market forces. Most of the time, it is considered the most important part of opening a business. It should have an executive summary that covers the basics of your chimney cleaning business venture. There should be a projection and business strategy section. A business plan that is well-written helps you obtain loans or attract investors to get involved in your business.

Get Certified and Gain Experience

Based on the law, you are not required to be licensed in order to operate chimney sweep business. You can get a general business license.

However, if there are any damages that result from your chimney cleaning service, you are going to be liable for them.

You can prevent this by getting certified, so your knowledge about the job improves. In addition, being certified makes your business more attractive to high-payers.

The certification stamp shows credibility telling homeowners you put safety first and then do an excellent job.

Have Strong Characteristics

All jobs have certain characteristics that help the job to become more natural for any person. If you want to become a chimney cleaner, you need stamina, strength, fine motor skills, ability, and critical thinking skills. If you do not work in construction or even complete a DIY project at home, you are aware that no project goes as planned so you must be adaptable and flexible. You also need strong customer service, so you can effectively communicate with business owners and homeowners. Having strong communication skills also lets you interact well with co-workers and bosses.

Online Exposure

If you want to find a new customer online for your chimney cleaning services, you must consider having a compelling website. You will be able to build one on your own through platforms, or you can pay for a web designer to create something unique from scratch. Features such as online booking is convenient and gives you an advantage over other companies. Do no forget to talk about the services you offer in detail and show your certifications, as well positive reviews to make your customers assured of your skills.

Choose a Great Business Name and Logo

You should give a lot of thought to your business name and choose the ones that is professional and practical. After that, your name will be seen on your invoices and quotes, uniforms, marketing materials. And even your van.

They should both go hand-in-hand and the logo should be easily recognizable.

You can become of the top chimney contractors Columbia MD if you follow the proper ways of opening a business in this industry.

The post Blog first appeared on First Class Chimney Services.

This post first appeared on https://www.firstclasschimneyservices.com

Should I Get a Chimney Inspection? How to Know If Your Chimney Needs to be Inspected

“Should I get a chimney inspection?” You may be wondering this as the weather gets cool and the heat is being turned on for the season. Fireplace safety should be at the forefront of any chimney owner’s mind, which includes an annual chimney inspection.

Do you have a home in the Greater Boston, Massachusetts area? Best Chimney Services has been the community’s all-service chimney company since 1989, and we’re ready to serve you with a chimney inspection, chimney sweep, or other chimney service. Click here or call (781) 893-6611 to get in touch.

chimney against a blue skyWhen To Get a Chimney Inspection

At Best Chimney, we recommend getting an annual chimney inspection. The Chimney Safety Institute of America agrees, and quotes the National Fire Protection Association Standard 211 saying,”Chimneys, fireplaces, and vents shall be inspected at least once a year for soundness, freedom from deposits, and correct clearances. Cleaning, maintenance, and repairs shall be done if necessary.”

Besides an annual inspection, there are several other times to have your chimney inspected. If you are buying a new house, you should have the chimney inspected to protect your investment. In addition, if you’re having any chimney issues, an inspection is a good starting point to diagnose any issues. Also, if a connected device is replaced, it is time for an inspection. This means that upgrading your heating appliance or water heater will require a flue inspection to confirm use.  Finally, even if you do not use your fireplace, you should have the chimney inspected. An inspection will check for venting issues with your heat and hot water ensuring the health and safety of those in your household.

Boston’s Best Chimney Inspectionsfriends gathered around a fireplace

We offer Level I, Level II, and Level III chimney inspections, and our team will help you determine the appropriate type of inspection for your situation. Each inspection type involves different tasks, but no matter which level of chimney inspection you choose, our team members are certified. This means that you can rely on having a highly trained and ethical chimney technician inspecting your chimney. Click here to learn the details of the different chimney inspections that we offer.

Call Best Chimney Services for Your Chimney Inspection Needs

If your chimney is in need of an inspection, be sure to get in touch with our team to book an appointment. An inspected and swept chimney will help keep your chimney safe and help you to avoid winter chimney problems, when the time comes to use your chimney. Click here or call (781) 893-6611 to contact us with questions.

The post Should I Get a Chimney Inspection? How to Know If Your Chimney Needs to be Inspected appeared first on Boston's Best Chimney.

Why You Should Hire a CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep

Hiring a trustworthy chimney company can be difficult. After all, getting your chimney inspected and swept regularly is essential to the safety of your home and family. Therefore, choosing a trustworthy company is important and often challenging to navigate. Besides asking friends and neighbors for recommendations and checking out companies’ reviews online, we recommend checking to see if the company employs CSIA certified chimney sweeps.

Today, we’ll explain what a CSIA certified chimney sweep is and why this certification is a good indicator of a chimney company’s competence and trustworthiness. Are you seeking a chimney company that you can trust in the Boston, MA area? Best Chimney Services is a CSIA certified chimney sweep company and has been serving the community since 1989. Click here or call (781) 893-6611 to book a chimney sweep or to ask your chimney-related questions.

csia certified chimney sweepWhat is a CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep

CSIA, or the Chimney Safety Institute of America, makes it “easier for homeowners to find reliable, experienced, highly-trained chimney and venting professionals.” This nonprofit organization has been in business for over thirty years, and has “created a standard of excellence in the industry by providing expert-led education and training to industry professionals.”

More specifically, a CSIA Certified chimney sweep is a credential that chimney professionals earn through this institute. It ensures that a specific chimney technician has a high level of knowledge regarding the “evaluation and maintenance of chimney and venting systems.” Chimney technicians need to prepare for and pass a challenging and detailed exam in order to gain this credential. After companies earn this credential, homeowners can easily find local certified chimney sweeps through CSIA’s certified provider search tool. Click here to learn more about this certification.

Why You Should Hire a CSIA Certified Chimney Sweepadvantages of hiring a csia certified chimney sweep

Keep Your Home and Family Safe

CSIA certified chimney technicians are not only highly trained and made to pass a difficult exam, but they also sign a code of ethics, stating that they will follow all outlined safety standards. By hiring a chimney sweep to ensure that your chimney is clean and safe, you are placing your trust in someone. There is nobody better than a highly trained, ethical technician.

Avoid Expensive Chimney Issues

Chimney issues can be expensive. By ensuring that your chimney is properly maintained, you can avoid a host of dangerous or expensive issues such as creosote build up, especially glazed creosote, and animals nesting in your chimney.

Peace of Mind

If your chimney is swept by someone who is trustworthy, you can relax and enjoy your fireplace during the cold months without having to worry about the state of your chimney. Get the assurance that you deserve by hiring a CSIA certified chimney sweep.

How CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps Can Keep Your Family Safe

As the CSIA describes in this video, a safe chimney is the last thing that you should be taking the time to worry about. Leave the care of your chimney to a certified professional.

Are You Looking for a Boston, MA Area Chimney Sweep?

If you’re looking for a certified Chimney sweep, look no further than Best Chimney Services. Not only does Best Chimney offer chimney sweeps, but we also offer chimney repairs, masonry work, chimney installations, and commercial chimney workClick here or call (781) 893-6611 to get in touch today!

The post Why You Should Hire a CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep appeared first on Boston's Best Chimney.

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