What You Will Get From A CSIA Certified Sweep
Although they are built to last, chimneys, fireplace systems, and other heating appliances do require a certain amount of annual maintenance to continue working their best. When choosing a company to complete this work, many homeowners are often tempted to go with the least expensive company rather than the company with the most experience.
When selecting a company to sweep and clean your fireplace and chimney, it is important to find a business with CSIA certified chimney sweeps. Unlike general contractors, handymen, or intrepid DIYers, these professionals have undergone rigorous training and testing to ensure that they are among the most highly trained professionals in their field.
Why use a certified sweep?
Although many companies may be capable of completing work on a chimney system, homeowners should only trust CSIA certified chimney sweeps. The CSIA, or Chimney Safety Institute of America, is widely considered the top licensing organization for chimney sweeps and has over 1,500 certified chimney sweeps in North America. Because of this, it is easy to find a reputable, certified chimney sweep in your area.
By choosing a business that employs CSIA certified sweep, homeowners are guaranteed to work with professionals who have shown they are at the top of their field in expertise, knowledge, and training. Likewise, they will also be familiar with any new safety and technology innovations, and will also able to make sure that all chimneys, fireplaces, or other heating appliances are compliant with state and local building codes. Many certified sweeps also have received training in the Environmental Protection Agency, or EPA standards for fireplaces, inserts, and stoves in order to ensure that these appliances are operating at maximum efficiency.
What does a certified sweep do?
During a typical cleaning, the primary duty of any chimney sweep is to remove any creosote buildup from the firebox and chimney structure. Creosote is an extremely flammable, sticky, and foul smelling byproduct created when wood is burned. Excessive creosote buildup is one of the major causes of chimney fires; because of this, it is important that homeowners have their chimneys thoroughly and professionally cleaned each year to ensure that these deposits are completely removed.
In addition to cleaning the firebox and chimney, a CSIA certified chimney sweep will also check the interior and exterior for any signs of deterioration, such as cracks, chipping, or damage to the masonry. Some sweeps may evaluate the efficiency of a fireplace system; this is particularly important for older heating appliances that may not meet current EPA standards. Lastly, CSIA certified chimney sweeps may check levels of carbon monoxide in the house when the fireplace is in use to make sure there is no risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.
How do I choose the right company?
Finding a trustworthy chimney sweep company can sometimes be difficult. Because of that, the CSIA has provided homeowners a sample list of questions to ask prospective businesses to ensure they are getting the best service possible.
- How long has your company been in the area?
- Do you or your sweeps have liability insurance coverage for any possible damages?
- Do you have any available customer references?
- Will the sweep who works on my home be CSIA certified?
By asking these simple questions, homeowners can ensure that they are getting a trustworthy, highly knowledgeable professional to work on their home. If you’re ready to schedule a chimney sweeping with a local, reputable business, contact Clean Sweeps today!