It’s a little-known fact that while we love our wood-burning fireplaces, they can stink. Especially in the warm-weather months. Sometimes, that odor coming from the chimney is the result of an animal invasion — critters that have made their way into the flue (and died, or left behind unmentionables). But often, it’s the chimney itself! We just … More Summer smell? A CSIA expert on what may be causing that stinky chimney or odor in the fireplace

You may have seen in the news recently where a man in Arizona got stuck in a chimney after a prank nearly turned tragic in early July. The Chimney Safety Institute of America, a Plainfield, Indiana-based nonprofit with a dual mission of providing industry education/certification along with homeowner resources, has written about the issue of people … More ‘Chimney-related incidents’ are no laughing matter

The Chimney Safety Institute of America is pleased to report that there are now more than 1,600 chimney sweeps in North America that carry our CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep® credential. The number of CCS technicians is 8 percent higher than in December, and continues CSIA’s role as the go-to industry leader for chimney education and training. … More More venting pros at your fingertips: Over 1,600 CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps now available for hire

There is one safety precaution that is a common-sense practice in the chimney/venting world. In the words of industry professional Tedd Cuttitta Jr. of Nanuet, New York: “We have always had a policy here. The first clap of thunder, get off the roof.” That’s due, of course, to lightning. Chimney and dryer exhaust maintenance is both an indoor and outdoor occupation, … More Practice #LightningSafety: That’s what chimney sweeps and dryer exhaust technicians do on rooftops!