Complete Chimney Inspections

An annual chimney inspection is as necessary as a yearly chimney cleaning. American Chimney Cleaning offers professional chimney inspections on three different levels. We have been providing chimney services since 1991.

Chimney system breakdowns are not always apparent, and a lot of homeowners think that an unused fireplace is problem-free. One of the most dangerous situations is when homeowners have not used their fireplace for many years and assume it’s ready to use.

However, the chimney may have deteriorated since the last usage, or a blockage in the system. These unseen issues can cause a house fire or carbon monoxide poisoning. A significant number of serious and fatal house fires that occur in the US annually involve using a neglected fireplace for the first time in a long while.

Prevent Any Possible Damage Through Chimney Inspections

It’s always necessary to repair a damaged chimney immediately to avoid any potential fire. Sometimes the only way to know that a chimney should be repaired is with a chimney inspection.

A chimney inspection is different from septic cleaning because the focus of the work is different. It’s always a good idea to have the chimney inspected first since the chimney sweep may find that a chimney cleaning isn’t needed yet. 

Even if you rarely use a well-maintained fireplace and only burn seasoned wood, an inspection is still recommended to confirm that the chimney has not undergone any damage since the last chimney inspection.

What are the Three Levels of Chimney Inspections?

The National Fire Protection Association is the governing body when it comes to the standards for chimney inspections. The NFPA Standard outlines three chimney inspection levels, depending on the circumstances that have triggered the inspection.

Generally, the greater the number level of inspection, the more detailed the inspection will be. American Chimney Cleaning can handle each level professionally. 

• Level 1 Chimney Inspection

Level 1 Chimney Inspection is the very minimum requirement for any venting system. This is the most common inspection done on every household. When you plan to use your gas appliances or chimney the way you always have, and under the same conditions, a Level 1 inspection will be enough.

With a Level 1 inspection, your household will receive an inspection of all the readily available portions of the interior and exterior of your chimney. Our certified technician will ensure basic soundness of the structure and flue, along with basic appliance connections. The technicians will also ensure the chimney is free of obstruction and combustible deposits. If not, we will recommend cleaning to ensure the safe usage of your chimney. 

• Level 2 Chimney Inspection

A Level 2 Chimney Inspection is a bit more complicated and is required under the following circumstances:

1. Buying or selling a home or business with a fireplace
2. The chimney survived weather damage or a fire
3. You want to use the chimney for an extended period

A Level 2 Chimney Inspection is a little more detailed than a Level 1. A visual inspection of the inside parts of the fireplace and chimney is needed. The NFPA Level 2 Venting Inspection includes the design, installation, maintenance, and inspection of chimneys, fireplaces, and venting systems in residential, commercial, or industrial buildings. 

• Level 3 Chimney Inspection

A Level 3 Chimney Inspection is generally required when the chimney’s construction is necessary for the chimney’s continued or renewed use due to potentially unseen defects. 

This inspection level can include opening or removing an interior wall to access hidden parts of the chimney. It usually occurs when a more serious problem has been identified, and a repair method needs to be determined.

Level 3 Chimney Inspections are usually rare. They involve everything in the first two levels and the full investigation of potential deterioration in areas that are not readily accessible. Some of the heating system components may not be removed, such as bricks, metal flue pipes, masonry, chimney crowns, interior walls of the chimney, and more.

A Level 3 Chimney Inspection is needed only when Level 1 and 2 inspections reveal a serious problem that requires an immediate solution. 

Providing World-Class Customer Service

American Chimney Cleaning specializes in chimney inspections. We also offer other chimney services, so you’re sure to find exactly what your property needs.

We are dedicated to providing world-class customer service and the highest quality products available to all our customers. Our services are reasonably priced to make sure that everyone can afford them. We have certified and licensed technicians to handle all our chimney-related services.

What’s Included in Our Chimney Inspection Services?

When you call us for a chimney inspection service, we will send a technician to your property to inspect all the chimney and fireplace components in accordance with the level of inspection needed. Our technician will inform you if the firebox, smoke chamber, flue pipes, and caps are in good working condition.

A fireplace is a beautiful addition to your home. It is a wonderful excuse to join together and enjoy the company of your loved ones and friends. However, fire is dangerous, and the only thing that’s standing between you, and this threat is your chimney system.