Which Inspection Level Your Chimney Needs
When it comes to maintaining your chimney, planning is essential. Since chimney technicians are in high demand during the peak winter season, now is the perfect time to schedule a professional inspection, even if you use a gas fireplace or stove in Orange County, CA.
However, not all chimney inspections are created equal, and depending on various factors, your certified chimney sweep may recommend one of three different inspection levels to ensure optimal safety and functionality for your home. In this article, we’ll explain the three different NFPA inspection levels to help you understand which one your chimney needs.
Level 1
A Level 1 inspection is the minimum required if no changes have been made since your last inspection to the appliance, fuel, or venting system. Our licensed and certified technician will visually examine all accessible areas of your chimney system without using special tools or equipment, looking for any structural issues, leaks, or improper installations.
The technician will also make sure there are no blockages in the chimney or any combustible deposits. Your technician may recommend chimney cleaning or level 2 or 3 inspections based on our examination results.
Level 2
If there have been changes or modifications to your heating system, such as altering the fuel source, relining your flue, or replacing an appliance, your chimney needs a level 2 inspection. This type of inspection incorporates all aspects of level 1, along with a more comprehensive evaluation of the chimney structure’s accessible areas. Additionally, our technician will insert a specialized video camera into the flue to determine if there are any abnormalities. It allows our technician to spot and repair minor flue damage, like tiny cracks that cannot be seen in a visual level 1 inspection before it develops into a more extensive repair.
Level 3
A Level 3 inspection is the most extensive type of chimney inspection available. In addition to all the areas covered in a Level 1 and Level 2 inspection, a Level 3 examination may require the removal of specific components, such as the chimney crown or interior masonry wall. This access allows for a more thorough review of suspected hazards within the chimney or venting system.
When To Schedule a Professional Chimney Inspection in Orange County, CA
Your safety is our top priority. At Oliver Twist Chimney & Fireplace, our Certified Chimney Sweeps are certified to perform all three inspection levels per National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Standards and Codes (Rule 211) throughout Los Angeles and Orange counties, including Long Beach, CA.
Call Oliver Twist Chimney & Fireplace at (714) 843-9944 to schedule your certified chimney inspection today! Or contact us to schedule service online.
