We Regularly Conduct Level 1 Visual Inspections

If no major changes have been made to your chimney system over the past year (no new appliance installed, no new flue liner installed, no change of fuel, no damage to the system, etc.), Blue Sky Chimney Sweeps will likely recommend a simple Level 1 visual inspection when it comes time for our regular maintenance check.

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recommends that venting systems be professionally inspected each and every year for good reason: It’s the only way that you can be sure that the baseline state of your chimney system hasn’t changed to be worse for wear or that there hasn’t been damage about which you are unaware.

Your chimney venting system does valuable work – it directs toxic gases and other dangerous deposits away from your living area, and it protects the combustible materials that surround it (the materials that make up your home) from high heat and fire. Fireplaces, stoves and inserts are wonderful additions to homes and can make the quality time with your family and friends more enjoyable – but when your chimney isn’t properly maintained, your heating appliance can be dangerous.

What Will Blue Sky Chimney Sweeps Do During a Visual Inspection?

A Level 1 visual inspection is the most basic of the industry standard’s three levels of chimney inspection. Essentially, if you’re using the same exact system in the same exact way, a Level 1 visual inspection is the best choice.  

During this chimney inspection, Blue Sky Chimney Sweeps’ technicians will take a close look at all the readily-accessible portions of your venting system’s interior and exterior, from the firebox all the way up to the chimney crown. We’ll also inspect the appliance itself as well as the chimney connectors that join the appliance to the venting system.

What Are Blue Sky Chimney Sweeps’ Technicians Looking For?

During a Level 1 inspection, Blue Sky Chimney Sweeps’ technicians are trying to gauge how safely and efficiently your system is working, and whether any hidden hazards are lurking in your system. These hazards can include cracks and gaps, flue blockages, water-damaged mortar joints or bricks, improper installation or construction, insufficient clearances to combustibles, and excessive creosote buildup. If we find issues or damage, we can recommend the appropriate resolutions for restoring your system to a proper and efficient function.

When Should I Schedule My Inspection?

The general rule of thumb is to have your inspection done every year around the same time. At the end of the burning season is optimum for wood burning appliances. Getting gas appliances serviced just before the burning season allows for lighting pilots before you need them.  However, getting it done anytime outside the heating season is always the best plan. That way when those cool nights roll in, you’re ready to enjoy a nice, warm fire, knowing your chimney system is functioning properly and as safely as can be.

IMPORTANT SCHEDULING NOTE: SCHEDULE AHEAD! If you call at the beginning of the burning season, we will probably already be booked well into the season – maybe even into the next calendar year. Call at least by January if you want an appointment in April or May. Call at least by June if you want an appointment in September or October.

When it comes to quality chimney inspections, you can trust Blue Sky Chimney Sweeps to “Bless Your Hearth.” Call us today or click here to schedule an appointment online!

Video inspections of your chimney allow us to get a more thorough look at the inside of your chimney. Ask us whether you could benefit from this level of chimney inspection.