Chimney, Dryer Vent and Air Duct FAQ

The NFPA 211 standard calls for chimneys, fireplaces and vents to be inspected once a year. Whether a sweep is needed depends on what that inspection finds, such as soot or creosote buildup or debris. Many New Yorkers book before heat season starts on October 1 so the system is ready when the heat comes on.

We protect the area around the fireplace or appliance, then use brushes and rods to clear soot and creosote from the flue. A vacuum collects the debris as we work. We check the firebox, smoke chamber and damper as we go and tell you about anything that needs attention.

Chimney professionals use three levels. Level 1 is for when nothing about the system has changed. Level 2 applies when the system changes or the home is sold. Level 3 is used when a hidden hazard has to be reached by opening part of the chimney or building.

A Level 2 inspection is called for when the system changes, such as a new appliance or a switch from one fuel to another. It's also the level used when a home is being sold. If you're buying or selling, or you just replaced a boiler or stove, this is the inspection to ask for.

Yes, the chimney has to be evaluated as part of an oil-to-gas boiler conversion in New York City. A new liner is often needed because gas exhaust produces acidic condensate that can corrode a masonry flue. We can inspect the chimney and install a properly sized liner if one is required.

A chimney cap sits on top of the flue. It keeps out rain, birds, squirrels and debris, and it can help stop sparks from escaping. A chase cover seals the top of a framed or prefabricated chimney so water doesn't get inside the enclosure. Both are simple ways to prevent bigger repairs later.

Water stains, rust on the damper, or crumbling mortar usually mean water is getting into the chimney. Common causes are a missing cap, a damaged crown, failed flashing or porous masonry. We find the source first, then recommend the right fix. That could be a repair, a new cap, or waterproofing the masonry.

Yes. Dampers warp, rust and seize over time, especially when moisture gets in. Depending on the condition, we'll repair the existing damper or recommend a replacement so it seals properly when the fireplace isn't in use.

Most problems can be repaired, such as cracked crowns, loose bricks or worn mortar joints. A rebuild becomes the better option when the masonry is leaning, badly deteriorated, or structurally unsound above or below the roofline. We'll show you what we found and explain why we're recommending one approach over the other.

Warning signs include clothes that take longer to dry, a dryer or laundry room that gets unusually hot, or a burning smell. According to the U.S. Fire Administration, failure to clean is the leading factor contributing to clothes dryer fires in homes. Cleaning the lint trap helps, but it doesn't clear lint built up inside the vent run.

The U.S. EPA advises cleaning air ducts when there is substantial visible mold growth, signs of vermin, or excessive dust and debris. The EPA also notes that duct cleaning has not been shown to prevent health problems. We'll look at your system and tell you honestly whether cleaning makes sense.

The EPA urges consumers to be careful with chemical treatments in ductwork. We won't apply any product without first explaining what it is and why it might help, and the decision is yours. The EPA also suggests researching the process before responding to very cheap advertised duct cleaning offers.

Don't use the fireplace or stove for at least a day beforehand so everything is cool. Clear a few feet around the fireplace, appliance or dryer, and move fragile items off the mantel. If we'll need roof or basement access, arrange keys or building permission ahead of time.

Timing depends on the service, the number of flues and how easy the chimney is to reach. We'll give you an estimate when we confirm your appointment. We use drop cloths and vacuums to keep soot and dust contained, and we clean up the work area before we leave.

Please keep pets in a closed room or crate while we work. Doors may be open, equipment will be running, and soot or debris can be stirred up. This keeps your pets calm and safe and lets us finish faster.

Many sweeps and inspections in New York require reaching the chimney top. In a rowhouse, that may mean a roof hatch or an interior ladder. In an apartment building, the super or managing agent usually controls access. Let us know who to contact, and we'll coordinate with them before the visit.