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Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why should I use SOOTY’S to service my fireplace?
A: SOOTY’S performs chimney service according to NFPA 211 guidelines (National standards for fireplace and chimneys). These guidelines require certain areas of the chimney to be inspected based on access. SOOTY’S chimney technicians can inspect and service fireplaces and heat ventilation systems in homes to make sure they are in a condition capable of containing fire and heat. SOOTY’S has developed a 25-point service report – one of the most thorough in the industry, which is performed on each and every system we service. Enjoy peace of mind when your chimney is serviced by SOOTY’S.
Q: Does servicing my chimney prevent fires?
A: Having a trained professional inspect and service a fireplace appliance will prevent chimney related fires. Annual service will detect potential fire hazards and will alert the homeowner of required repairs.
Q: How often should I have my fireplace serviced?
A: The NFPA 211 (National standards for fireplaces and chimneys) states that fireplace and chimneys should be inspected annually and cleaned as necessary. Our technicians perform a 25-point inspection on each and every system we service. This thorough inspection detects potential hazards. Sweeping of the fireplaces depends on the use of the system, the drafting characteristics, and the material being burnt. Each system will develop a history and can vary between every six month, annual or once every 20 years.
Q: What should I do after I’ve had a chimney fire?
A: A chimney fire can do damage to the chimney. Masonry chimneys are prone to cracking flue tiles and melting mortar. Factory built chimneys are prone to the seams buckling, separating, or affecting the alloy of the stainless steel. A thorough inspection including a video scanning of the interior is important to determine the condition of the chimneys integrity before using.
Q: Why does SOOTY’S use original manufactures’ parts?
A: The fireplace or chimney was originally listed and tested under the appropriate UL listing. This listing is designed for safety. When aftermarket parts are added to these systems they have not been tested for use with these appliances or chimneys. There is a risk by using these parts and that risk is unknown. There is additional work required to repair these systems properly. SOOTY’S believes that there is no reason to take additional risk. Which is why you can enjoy peace of mind when your fireplace is repaired by SOOTY’S.
“…..when not using the components provided by the manufacturer to the testing labs we simply do not know what may or may not happen. …..It is our recommendation and official policy that OEM components be used exclusively.”
Ashley Eldridge Chimney Safety Institute of America - Director of Education 7/17/07
Q: What are the potential hazards with fireplaces and chimneys?
A: There are many potential hazards associated with fireplaces and chimneys. It is because of this that proper, service, inspections and repairs are so important. Out of the 12 Potential hazards listed below only two are prevented by sweeping the chimney.
Health Hazard – Smoking into home because of creosote build-up
Health Hazard – Smoking into home because of damaged system
Health Hazard – Smoking into home because of improperly installed system
Health Hazard – Smoking into home because of improperly operated
Health Hazard – Smoking into home because of environmental conditions
Chimney Fire Hazard – Creosote build-up
Chimney Fire Hazard – Improper operating procedures
Chimney Fire Hazard – Improperly installed systems
Structure Fire Hazard – Damaged system
Structure Fire Hazard – Improperly installed system
Structure Fire Hazard – Improperly constructed system
Structure Fire Hazard – Improper operating procedures
Fall Hazard – Damaged System
Fall Hazard – Aging System
Fall Hazard – Improperly constructed system
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Service & Repair:
We use a three-tarp system in conjunction with a specialty 2-stage dust collector.