What is a fireplace inspection called?

What is a fireplace inspection called?

Commonly known as a “WETT (Wood Energy Technical Transfer) Inspection,” this is an inspection of your wood-burning system done by a WETT-trained and certified professional. When burning wood in a fireplace, it creates vapor that condenses as creosote in the chimney flue.

How often should you inspect chimney?

Homeowners are urged to have their chimneys inspected for creosote buildup and cleaned if necessary in the spring of each year. Chimney fires are characterized by loud cracking or popping noises and a lot of dense smoke from the flue, but often times go undetected by the homeowner.

How do I test my chimney?

5 Easy Steps to Make Sure Your Fireplace Is Safe

  1. #1 Examine the Firebox. Look for any cracks, gaps, or signs of wear in the lining of the firebox (the interior of the fireplace).
  2. #2 Look for Telltale Smoke Stains.
  3. #3 Make Sure Your Grate Is the Right Size.
  4. #4 Check the Chimney.
  5. #5 Double-Check Your Fire Extinguisher.

What are the different types of chimneys?

Some of the most popular and common types of chimneys include:

  • Masonry Chimneys.
  • Metal Chimneys.
  • Factory-Built/ Prefabricated Chimneys.
  • Fireplace Insert Chimneys.
  • Freestanding Stove Chimneys.
  • Wood Burning Stove Chimneys.

How do you inspect a chimney for damage?

A level-one chimney inspection includes a visual check of the fireplace and chimney without any special equipment or climbing up on the roof. The chinmney sweep comes to your house with a flashlight; looks for damage, obstructions, creosote buildup, and soot; and tells you if the chimney requires sweeping.

Should embers come out of a chimney?

Not only is this situation not normal, it’s not safe. If you see sparks and embers coming from the opening of your chimney, there’s a good likelihood that a chimney fire is occurring. Whether it’s from debris in the flue or you have creosote buildup in your chimney, it must be cleaned before you build another fire.

What is a WETT chimney inspection?

A WETT inspection is a review of the components of a wood-burning system to ensure that they are installed correctly, are maintained in good working order, and that all parts of the system are compatible with one another.

How long is a Wett inspection good for?

Not only is it a good idea to get a WETT inspection when you purchase a home with a wood burning fireplace, but you should also consider getting any wood burning appliance inspected every five years and getting a chimney sweep every two years (depending on how much you use the appliance) as there are many factors to …

Do chimney cleaning logs really work?

Many homeowners wonder if the chimney sweep logs or creosote sweeping logs really work to clean out fireplace flues and get rid of creosote residue so that the fireplaces are safe to use. The short answer is no, they don’t work. At least, not well enough to completely clean out the flue the way it should be cleaned.

Do I need to clean my chimney if I don’t use it?

If you do not use your chimney, you may not have to clean it as often, but you still should have a professional inspect and sweep your chimney to make sure it is safe. Chimney damage can occur, even if you do not use it. A damaged chimney can collapse if not repaired in a timely fashion.