When you have your chimney cleaned properly every year, you increase the safety and efficiency of your heating appliance, whether wood, oil, or gas. Doing so ensures that smoke, toxic gasses are able to exit your house safely and that your system operates as effectively as possible. Not only that… you can rest easier at night. 

Here’s a reality that may make it a little more difficult to get those peaceful Z’s. Anyone can hang out a shingle and claim to be a chimney sweep. Untrained amateurs, though, can cause big headaches (and worse) for homeowners.  

Yes, you do need a certified chimney sweep. Here’s why. 

A Certified Chimney Sweep Is a Must 

Remember Mary Poppins? The chimney sweep was charming, jovial, and had a great voice – in the real world, though, these skills matter much less than a full technical knowledge of chimneys and flues! The Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) is a nonprofit committed to educating, training, and certifying chimney and venting professionals. A leader in the field since 1983, CSIA is nationally recognized, and their credentials hold real weight in the industry and with homeowners. 

They may or may not be able to carry a tune, but a CSIA certified chimney sweep does: 

Receive extensive training and pass rigorous exams. In order to gain certification as a chimney sweep, professionals must be thoroughly educated on fire codes, clearances, and standards for the construction and maintenance of chimneys. Certification exams are intense and require deep knowledge and meticulous attention to detail. This isn’t just “book learning.” These pros apply their learning each and every day to ensure the safety of their customers. 

These professions prioritize ongoing education and training. To maintain their certification, chimney sweeps engage in continual development to keep their skills sharp and stay up to date on the latest in chimney science and standards. They are required to complete continuing education units (CEU); if they have 48 CEUs, they can simply renew their certification. If they have at least nine CEUs but less than 48, they can renew after successful completion of the exam. If they have fewer than nine, they may take a Certified Chimney Sweep (CCS) review course and exam. 

Whatever route the professional takes, CSIA does not simply hand out credentials. They are earned. 

Certified chimney sweeps adhere to a strict code of ethics. Certification indicates that not only does a chimney sweep have the knowledge required of the job but the attitude and mentality. The CSIA Code of Ethics encompasses everything from following proper safety regulations and complying with applicable building codes to rendering services in an “honest and fair manner” while promoting and educating consumers about safe practices. 

They are nationally recognized. CSIA certification is recognized by industry organizations, insurance underwriters, and state and federal agencies as the measure of a chimney’s sweeps knowledge.  

Certified chimney sweeps know what they’re looking for when cleaning your chimney. Anyone can shine a flashlight up a chimney and call it a day. You need, and deserve, more from your chimney sweep. A CSIA certified professional knows what to look for when it comes to your system. If it is not safe, they will educate you immediately as to the best steps to take. And again, because they operate with this strict code of ethics, they will present you with all the options without trying to “upsell” you on any further products or services. They give you the information you need to keep your family and home safe. 

Your Brick + Ember Certified Chimney Sweep 

Our mission is to serve our customers humbly and honestly; we put your safety first, always. We understand that trust and confidence is important to you. It is equally important to us. This is why all of our technicians are CSIA certified. Further: 

  • They all carry property ID so you know who is coming into your home. Do not hesitate to ask to see credentials. Our people are happy to put your mind at ease at any and every step of the process. 
  • Our team members arrive in a branded car so you know it’s us! 
  • We take the time to listen to your needs. We don’t like giving sales pitches; we’d much rather provide you with exceptional service. 

With Brick + Ember, you will sleep easier at night. Let us take care of your chimney maintenance needs. Get in touch with us to discuss your needs or schedule your annual cleaning and/or inspection. 

CATEGORIES

RECENT POSTS