Chim-scan®
About Us
About Chim-Scan®
Chim-Scan (operated by Estoban Corporation) is a small, family-owned company based in Fairfield, Iowa, that designs and builds advanced chimney and duct inspection cameras. Since 1984, we have been passionate innovators in chimney and HVAC inspection technology. Our founders, Tom and Esther Urban, started this journey as a local chimney sweep business in the late 1970s. Frustrated by the limitations of a simple flashlight inspection, they set out to create a better way to see inside chimneys and other tight spaces.
By 1984, Tom and Esther had crafted the first Chim-Scan camera system—a rugged, remote-controlled video camera packed into a sturdy case. We unveiled this invention at a national industry convention, and CNN famously called it a “show-stopper.” Over the years, that prototype evolved into the versatile inspection systems we make today. We remain proud to be the chimney camera of choice for professionals, building each Chim-Scan unit by hand in our Iowa workshop with top-quality, commercial-grade parts. Even our earliest models are still in service, thanks to our ongoing support and repairs.
Chimscan People
This is the space to introduce the team and what makes it special. Describe the team culture and work philosophy. To help site visitors connect with the team, add details about team members’ experience and skills.
Thomas Urban
Founder, Educator & Industry Innovator
Tom Urban is a nationally recognized chimney and home inspector, speaker, and trainer. Since 1985, he has been a featured presenter at national conventions and tradeshows, sharing his deep knowledge and passion for chimney safety and inspection.
Tom developed the original Chim-Scan® interior chimney inspection camera system to use in his own sweeping company in Northeast Pennsylvania. After selling that service business, he dedicated himself full-time to designing and refining specialty tools for the chimney and hearth industry.
His contributions have earned him the Don Leavitt Education Award from the Chimney Safety Institute of America and the President’s Award from the National Chimney Sweep Guild. Tom and his equipment have also been featured on PBS’s This Old House—appearing in four episodes.
Esther Urban
Office Manager & Customer Support Lead
After serving together in the Peace Corps, Tom and Esther Urban founded Estoban Corporation with a shared vision and commitment to service. Esther is the heart of the office and the friendly voice most customers hear when they call. She handles everything from order processing to troubleshooting with care and expertise.
Married for 49 years, Esther and Tom have built and run this family business side by side—bringing dedication, warmth, and decades of experience to every customer interaction
Shelley Urban
Operations & Technical Lead
Daughter of founders Tom and Esther Urban, Shelley has been part of the Chim-Scan® story since infancy—attending her first tradeshow as a baby. Over the years, she’s grown with the business, starting in the office before moving into hands-on production, where she wired controllers and cameras.
Today, Shelley plays a vital role in operations. She oversees purchasing, programs the company’s 3D printers, and continues to contribute to production. Her unique blend of institutional knowledge and technical skill makes her an indispensable part of the team.
Our Products and Technology
A Chim-Scan is essentially a video inspection camera that can be raised or lowered inside a chimney, duct, or other confined space. It brings light and remote focus into the flue, revealing areas that are invisible to the naked eye. While Chim-Scan started with chimneys in mind, our cameras also work in HVAC ducts, crawl spaces, and any inaccessible area where a regular visual check isn’t possible.
Our camera systems come in several configurations to fit different needs. They can be color or black-and-white, use remote-focus or auto-focus lenses, and operate on standard 12-volt power. Each system includes integrated recording equipment—modern units use digital recorders or computer interfaces so inspectors can capture images and video on the spot. We also produce accessories like Kwik-Lock rods for raising cameras and motorized carts for large commercial flues, making inspections smoother and faster.
Key Features of Chim-Scan® Systems
HD Video
High-definition video inspection of chimney and duct interiors, capturing fine details in real time.
Rugged
Rugged, handcrafted construction from solid aluminum and steel, built to survive heavy professional use.
Modular
Modular design that lets you upgrade cameras, lights, or recording devices as new technology emerges.
Future-proof
On-board recording capabilities for saving photos and videos directly to digital media or a connected device.
Our Story in Numbers
30K
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+27%
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15M
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890
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