One of our favorite ways to relax after a long day on the lakes here in the Ozarks is to cozy up next to a fire. Whether it’s with a good book or catching up on our favorite TV series, the ambiance of a cozy fire in your fireplace can’t be beat. That is, if it’s being properly maintained.
Did you know that your chimney needs to be inspected and cleaned each year? If you didn’t, don’t be too hard on yourself… Many of our customers didn’t know before they contacted us either. The good news is that Ozark Stove and Chimney is here to help with all your chimney needs, including your annual fireplace inspection.
Why Do Chimneys Need To Be Professionally Inspected?
Chimneys have a big job when it comes to keeping your family and home as safe as possible while you enjoy those cozy fires. The sole purpose of a chimney is to help get smoke and other unwanted byproducts out of your home when you use your fireplace or stove. And it doesn’t matter if you’re burning oil, wood, gas, or pellets – every chimney has the same goal and therefore should be inspected every year.
But what if your chimney is blocked, smelly, leaky, or crumbling? Well, this is where chimney inspections (and chimney sweepings) come in. Each time you use your chimney, pesky things like creosote, soot, and condensation can build up over time. This build up can be dangerous because it increases the risk of experiencing poor airflow and chimney fires. Your chimney can also be susceptible to blockages that can occur if leaves get stuck, animals build cozy little nests, or soot clogs the passageway from lack of maintenance.
However, having Ozark Stove and Chimney out each year to inspect and clean your chimney will help your stay ahead of the game. We will be able to catch any potential issues and address them before they become bigger ones. Don’t wait – book with us today.
When Should I Book My Chimney Inspection?
Now, most people associate fall or wintertime with chimney maintenance, but the ideal time to book a chimney inspection is actually during the offseason – like late spring or early summer. During these months, chimney professionals are less busy, allowing for more flexible scheduling and more time to address necessary repairs or modifications.
That said, no matter the time of year, if you notice any signs of chimney problems – such as strange odors, smoke issues, or visible damage – it’s crucial to schedule an inspection promptly, regardless of the season. Remember that safety should be a top priority, and proactive chimney maintenance can prevent potential hazards.
Overall, early planning and scheduling, preferably in the offseason, can ensure that your chimney is in optimal condition when you need it most.
What Happens During a Chimney Inspection?
Both the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) also recommend that you have a chimney inspected and cleaned each year. When it comes to chimney inspections, there are three different levels. The level you need depends on things like: whether there have been changes to the system, the fuel type being used, the amount of use, and whether or not you have sustained damage from a fire or other phenomenon (like a flood or tornado).
Here is a look at what is included at each level:
- Level 1 – This is the most basic level. During this inspection, a chimney technician will inspect parts of your chimney system that are readily accessible on the interior and exterior. This type of inspection is appropriate if your system hasn’t changed at all and you plan to use it the same as before.
- Level 2 – A level 2 inspection is required whenever you’re making changes to your system like fuel type, design, flue, or material in the system. This level should also be done any time a home with a chimney changes ownership. If your chimney has sustained any damage or if you’ve had a chimney fire, then you also need a level 2 inspection done before you use your system again. The biggest difference between a level 1 and level 2 inspection is the special internal camera equipment we use to thoroughly examine all inside components, especially the flue liner and mortar joints.
- Level 3 – A level 3 inspection includes everything that comes with a level 1 and 2 inspection, but this level includes removing any necessary components like the chimney crown, structural components, or even part of the surrounding wall, all so that the technicians can access all areas that need to be inspected. Typically, this level of inspection is completed when there are worries of serious hazards or damage somewhere in your chimney system.
Schedule With Us
When you choose Ozark Stove and Chimney for your inspection needs you can count on our technicians to check your whole system. We pride ourselves on quality service and even offer a lifetime warranty on our services. Plus, when you choose Ozark Stove and Chimney for your annual cleaning, we will always do a level 2 inspection to make sure you and your family can safely enjoy your home heating systems for years to come.
We recommend that you have your annual sweeping and inspection done early in the summer, or very early fall, before you’ll start using your system.
Give us a call today at 417-201-6585 or reach out online, so we can get you taken care of.