What is Video Chimney Inspection and what are its Benefits?

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What is Video Chimney Inspection and what are its
Benefits?

• chimneysweep.com

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(No Transcript)
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Are you considering getting your chimney
inspected? Have you heard about video chimney
inspections? If not, then youve come to the
right place! In this blog, well be discussing
the benefits of video chimney inspections and why
it is necessary.
What is a video chimney inspection?
A video chimney inspection is a process of using
a camera to inspect the inside of a chimney. This
type of inspection is typically used to evaluate
the condition of a chimney, identify any
potential issues or hazards, and determine the
need for repairs or maintenance.
During a video chimney inspection, a small camera
is inserted into the chimney and lowered down its
entire length. As the camera travels down the
chimney, it records high-quality video footage of
the interior surfaces. This footage is then used
to assess the condition of the chimney and
identify any problems that may be present, such
as cracks, blockages, or other damage.
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Why is a chimney inspection necessary?
A chimney inspection is necessary to ensure that
the chimney is functioning properly and safely. A
chimney that is not inspected regularly can
become clogged with debris or suffer from
structural damage, which can lead to dangerous
situations such as carbon monoxide poisoning or
chimney fires. Inspecting a chimney can identify
any potential problems and allow for repairs to
be made before they become hazardous.
What will happen at the chimney video inspection?
During a chimney video inspection, a professional
chimney inspector will use a specialized video
camera to inspect the inside of the chimney. The
video camera is usually mounted on a flexible rod
that can be easily maneuvered up and down the
chimney.
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The inspector will typically start by inspecting
the chimney from the top, looking for any signs
of damage or deterioration, such as cracks, gaps,
or missing bricks. They will also look for any
signs of blockages or buildup, such as creosote
or animal nests.
As the inspector works their way down the
chimney, they will carefully examine the flue,
looking for any signs of damage or obstruction
that could prevent proper ventilation. They will
also check the damper and other components of the
chimney to ensure they are functioning properly.
Once the inspection is complete, the inspector
will provide a detailed report of their findings,
including any recommendations for repairs or
maintenance. This report can be used to identify
potential safety hazards and ensure that the
chimney is functioning properly.
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Levels of Chimney inspection
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)
recommends that all chimneys should be inspected
at least once a year, regardless of use, to
ensure their proper function. There are three
levels of chimney inspections, each with its own
specific purpose and level of detail. In this
blog post, we will discuss the three levels of
chimney inspection.
Level 1 Inspection
A Level 1 chimney inspection is the most basic
type of inspection and is recommended for
chimneys that have been well-maintained and have
not undergone any significant changes. This
inspection includes a visual examination of the
readily accessible portions of the chimney
exterior, interior, and accessible portions of
the appliance and chimney connection. The
inspector will check for any obstructions or
combustible deposits, as well as the basic
soundness of the chimney structure and flue.
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Level 2 Inspection
A Level 2 chimney inspection is more
comprehensive and is required when any changes
have been made to the chimney or when there is a
suspected malfunction or damage. This inspection
includes all the elements of a Level 1
inspection, as well as a video inspection to
check for cracks or deterioration within the flue
liner, as well as any other hidden problems. A
Level 2 inspection is also required when a home
is sold or transferred, or after an operating
malfunction or external event that is likely to
have caused damage to the chimney, such as a
chimney fire or earthquake.
Level 3 Inspection
A Level 3 chimney inspection is the most thorough
and invasive type of inspection and is required
when a significant hazard is suspected. This
inspection includes all the elements of a Level 1
and 2 inspection, but also requires the removal
of specific components of the building or chimney
system, such as chimney crowns, interior chimney
wall coverings, or portions of the chimney
structure, to gain access to areas that are
otherwise not readily accessible.
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This level of inspection is invasive and often
requires significant repairs, so it is only
performed when there is a significant risk of
danger to the occupants of the building. Level 3
inspection generally includes a video inspection
also.
What are the benefits of a video chimney
inspection?
Video chimney inspection reaches the parts where
normal inspection cannot reach. It has so many
other benefits also. Some of them are as under
Comprehensive view of the chimney
A video chimney inspection provides a complete
view of the interior of the chimney. This allows
for a thorough inspection of the chimneys
condition, identifying any potential problems
that may not be visible to the naked eye.
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Accurate and Thorough Inspection
One of the primary benefits of video chimney
inspection is that it provides a much more
accurate and thorough inspection than a visual
inspection alone. With a video inspection, a
camera is inserted into the chimney, allowing the
inspector to see all the way up to the top of the
chimney. This means that they can identify any
potential problems, such as cracks or creosote
buildup, that may not be visible to the naked eye.
Non-invasive
A video chimney inspection is a non-invasive
process, meaning that it does not require any
drilling or demolition of the chimney. This means
that the inspection can be completed quickly and
without any damage to the structure.
Cost-effective
A video chimney inspection is a cost-effective
way of inspecting a chimney, as it is less
expensive than traditional methods of inspection.
This is because it requires less labor and
equipment.
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Safe
A video chimney inspection can also help increase
the safety of your home. If there are any issues
with your chimney, such as creosote buildup or
cracks, it can increase the risk of a chimney
fire. With a video inspection, these issues can
be identified and addressed quickly, reducing the
risk of a fire occurring.
Provides documentation
Video chimney inspections also provide better
documentation of the condition of your chimney.
With a video inspection, the inspector can record
footage of the inside of your chimney, providing
a visual record of any potential issues. This can
be useful for insurance purposes, as well as for
keeping track of the condition of your chimney
over time.
Peace of Mind
Finally, a video chimney inspection can provide
you with peace of mind. Knowing that your chimney
is in good condition and free from any potential
hazards can help you feel more secure in your
home. It can also give you confidence that your
family is safe from any potential dangers
associated with a poorly maintained chimney.
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