theconnectionsnj.com HOME & DESIGN PAGE 46 The role of the chimney is a unique one and often misunderstood. I hear a lot of comments, like, “chimney sweeps still exist?” Yes, they do, and we still sweep chimneys. We also inspect and repair them. Let me address some of the more common questions I hear. Why Should I Have My Chimney Swept? Wood burning fireplaces create soot and creosote (byproducts of burning solid fuels like wood) that builds up inside the fireplace and chimney. This is actually a fire hazard, as these materials are flammable. Chimney fires are actually the creosote that has developed inside the chimney, (known as the flue), and has caught on fire. To prevent this from happening, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) says a fireplace and chimney should be swept and inspected annually. But I Have a Gas Fireplace Yes, it’s true that burning natural gas is clean, and some gas fireplaces don’t have a chimney or flue. But did you know that the owner’s manual for almost all gas fireplaces tell you to have the fireplace cleaned and inspected annually? That’s right! The fireplace appliance itself should be serviced by a certified technician. They will clean the logs of dust, and even soot in some cases, clean the control compartment, inspect the burner, pilot light, and adjust as needed. This will keep your gas fireplace running in tip-top shape. Do I Need to Have My Fireplace Inspected if I am Selling My Home? There are two answers to this question. First, there are some municipalities in NJ that do require a fireplace and chimney inspection when a home is sold, and it is the responsibility of the seller. It is normally part of a Certificate of Occupancy requirement which has other conditions that need to be satisfied. Check with your town hall before you list your home. The second answer involves the NFPA, who I mentioned earlier. They state that a Level 2 inspection should be conducted when there is a sale or transfer of property. If there is not a municipal requirement, an inspection still should be done as stated by the NFPA. Since many fireplaces are never inspected, it is a great idea to do this if you are buying a house. But I Don’t Have a Fireplace I hear this all the time, and I reply, “Do you have a furnace or boiler?” Many homes here in central NJ do have a chimney even if there is no fireplace. This chimney is venting the boiler or furnace, and the hot water heater. This chimney is largely forgotten and, in some cases, can be severely deteriorated. This is a hazardous condition and can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning. These chimneys should be inspected and repaired to prevent such an incident. Keep your family and home safe and call your local, certified chimney sweep every year. You’ll have peace of mind knowing everything has been cleaned, inspected and if needed, restored to satisfactory condition. Midtown Chimney Sweeps 908-751-0854 Midtownsweeps.com WHAT DOES THE MODERN CHIMNEY SWEEP DO? Commends Connection Many homes here in central NJ do have a chimney even if there is no fireplace. This chimney is venting the boiler or furnace, and the hot water heater. This chimney is largely forgotten and, in some cases, can be severely deteriorated. This is a hazardous condition and can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning. Chimney fires are actually the creosote that has developed inside the chimney, (known as the flue), and has caught on fire. By Kurt Matthews, CCP, CCR, NFI
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy NzA2NDY0