Helping Homeowners Enjoy Safer Fireplaces & Cozier Homes
–– IT’S WHAT WE DO
Having a fireplace or woodstove in your home can make for cozier evenings and more relaxing days. But did you know that 17,920 structure fires are caused by wood-burning appliances every year? These house fires result in property damage, home loss, injuries, and even loss of life.
But with routine maintenance, chimney sweepings, and proper operation, most of these fires can be avoided.
So, how do you ensure your family’s safety and make enjoying a fire in your home less risky? By scheduling annual chimney inspections with qualified chimney professionals. We can help.
The Northeast Association of Chimney and Hearth Professionals (NEACHP) is a non-profit organization of chimney and hearth professionals dedicated to increasing public awareness of chimney safety and maintenance issues – and making it easier for homeowners to find the qualified sweeps they need.
Local Fire Statistics:
In 2011, the State of Vermont had 2,366 structure fires, 35% of which were heating related. They caused over $21 million in property damage.
In 2011, the State of New Hampshire had 1,797 house fires, and 747 were heating- or solid fuel-related. They caused over $1 million in property damage.
According to the NFPA, heating remains the #1 cause of structure fires in New Hampshire.
Do All Chimneys & Hearth Appliances Need to Be Maintained?
You might think wood-burning fireplaces and woodstoves are the only hearth appliances that need to be routinely swept and maintained, but that’s not the case.
All heating systems (including gas fireplaces and gas furnaces) require periodic maintenance of their exhaust components. In fact, the more efficient furnaces of today can actually damage your chimney lining more quickly than older furnaces.
The lining of your chimney is the main barrier between the hot expelled exhaust gases and the building materials that support and surround it. An inefficient or damaged liner greatly increases your risk of fire and can prevent the removal of potentially fatal gases (such as carbon monoxide) from your home.
Moreover, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recommends that all chimneys be inspected annually.
“Chimneys, fireplaces and vents shall be inspected at least once a year.
Cleaning, maintenance and repairs shall be done if necessary. Connectors, spark arresters, cleanouts, and tee fittings for chimneys and for oil and pellet venting systems shall be inspected at least once a year for soundness and deposits.”
–– The NFPA 211 Standard for Chimneys, Fireplaces, Vents and Solid Fuel-Burning Appliances
Before You Light a Fire, Schedule a Chimney Inspection
With an Experienced Professional
A chimney pro can help make sure you get all the benefits of having a heating appliance in your home without the unnecessary and avoidable risks.
It all starts with an annual chimney inspection.
And remember, a chimney professional does much more than sweep and inspect chimneys. Most certified professionals can also perform relining, repair, restoration, and other masonry type work. They can also advise you on other potentially dangerous issues related to your home heating systems.
Talk with your local chimney professional today to ensure that your fireplace, woodstove, or furnace (and the warmth and comfort they provide) remains safe for your home and family. And remember, a chimney flue and lining free of combustibles won’t catch fire.
Don’t have a chimney sweep? Find a qualified pro in Vermont or New Hampshire right here on our member page.
Are You a Chimney Pro Looking for Great Training & Networking? Join Us!
Interested in becoming an NEACHP member? We’d love to have you! Through technical training, business skill training, and association referrals to members, we endeavor to foster growth and success for member companies.
For professional membership information, reach out using our contact form right here.
Up your professional game by becoming a member of NEACHP today!