​Making informed decisions is essential when it comes to your home. Your chimney is no different. Most interior flue defects are not apparent to the naked eye. This is why having your chimney swept, scanned, and inspected at least annually is so critical. We manufacture the Chim-Scan® Internal Evaluation Systems, chimney cameras for detecting and recording defects and healthy flue images. We are in the chimney inspection business!
Here's an example of why having your chimney scanned annually is so important! 
A homeowner had his chimney swept every year. The chimney sweep, in good faith, thought he was doing a great job of cleaning and inspecting the chimney. There was one catch, though. He didn't use a chimney camera. A year later, he brought a camera to the job. The camera revealed damage to the chimney's interior that might have resulted in a house fire if the conditions were right. Conditions within the chimney can change, which is why it’s so important to have your chimney cleaned, scanned, and inspected at least once annually.
We began our company as a chimney sweeps. In the early '80s, no camera would work in a chimney. We became frustrated when sweeping chimneys because we couldn’t see the flue's interior. It was quite a challenge, but we built our first chimney camera, the only dedicated one at the time. It meant long days, including hard work, all done around our sweeping business. It took over a year to build the first unit. Fast-forward to today (40 years later), where technology is abundant, and we continue to innovate, update, and educate. We’ve come a long way.  
Additionally, when educating our customers, we created the Chim-Scan® Factory-Trained Technician Program, which includes training and two books on scanning and inspecting chimneys. This educational program was written for chimney sweeps, home inspectors, and others interested in chimney scanning. We even offer classes. Our president, Tom Urban, is an industry expert and teacher. He taught at the Chimney Safety Institute of America School, National Chimney Sweep Guild Events, State Chimney Guilds, and other locations. We also provide in-house training in our lab in Fairfield, Iowa.
Tom was interviewed on 20/20, CNN, newspapers, and other sources. He was even a guest star in an episode of This Old House. We also want to help America's homeowners enjoy their fireplaces and keep them warm and toasty. So, look for more blogs or follow us on Facebook, Instagram, or TickTok.

​Whether performing chimney inspections or reading a chimney inspection report, one thing is clear: It is hard to argue with a high-resolution picture taken during a chimney inspection with a camera showing defects deep inside the flue. A chimney inspection done with the naked eye is no comparison to an internal chimney scanning. I used a 5’ chimney prop with hidden defects in the chimney inspections and classes I taught for 21 years. Almost 99.9% of the time, the inspectors missed an opening defect within the flue by inspecting only with a flashlight and the naked eye. These defects were only 17” from their face. 

Images and videos from scanning chimneys are one part of the equation. If you read a report with multiple pictures, can you understand what the defects are and what caused them? Here are some other questions to consider:

1. Can you identify and define “What is a defect?” within the chimney interior?"
2. Can you determine how the defect was created or the most probable way it was created?
3. Did you rule out other causes and conditions, leaving probable causes as to why the defect is there?

In my forty years in the chimney industry, I have accumulated a lot of images, videos, and knowledge regarding chimney construction and defects. I have also spoken at national and state organizations and taught at a national trade organization school for over twenty years (Chimney Safety Institute of America). 

This wealth of experience led me to envision a way to share this information with the chimney industry and anyone interested in internal chimney inspections, culminating in the following book. The Chimney Scanning & Inspection Guide.
Within this book is a brief outline:

• Where to start – Use IRC, NFPA 211, local codes, or the manufacturer’s installation instructions.
• Where to put drop cloths and prepare the area for the inspection
• How does scanning chimneys fit within the Levels of Inspection (NFPA 211)? Where do the Levels of Accessibility fit into all this?
• How do structure integrity and flue condition compare to what is the ideal chimney in the code books?
• What is happening within the flue and the chimney?
• What is the probable cause of the defect or symptom, along with an explanation?

Operating a chimney camera using the proper techniques and observation skills should produce more answers regarding the flue’s condition rather than presenting more questions. Since there are many types of installation, we segmented this book into modules to provide a step-by-step approach to chimney scanning by chimney type. The modules include:
​
• Scanning a Masonry Chimney and Fireplace
• Scanning a  Masonry Chimney and Fireplace with an Appliance (Hearth Stove & Insert)
• Scanning a Masonry Thimble Chimney Serving an Appliance(s) (Solid Fuel or Liquid Fuel(s)
• Scanning a Prefab Chimney and Fireplace
• Scanning a Prefab Chimney Serving an Appliance (Solid Fuel or Liquid Fuel(s)

Each installation type offers its unique challenges. We detail the differences between types of installations, including conditions to be alert for and the typical defects for each. The training modules listed above tell you the best access points and offer a step-by-step assessment process for home protection, defect diagnosis, and cleanup. If you would like more information about our books, click here. Otherwise, continue reading our blogs to learn about your interests.

Becoming a Chim-Scan® Factory-Trained Technician is a unique factory training program. It starts with our Chimney Scanning and inspection Guide. You can take the test once you feel confident that you know the information. You will receive a patch, certificate, and the Chim-Scan® Factory-Trained designation upon passing. 
 There are many benefits of becoming a Chim-Scan® Factory Trained Technician: 
• You may be able to get lower insurance coverage rates. Ask your agent about this.
• You receive a certificate, a patch, and the number upon passing. 
• You receive a copy of our Chim-Scan® Technician Logo for advertising. 
• This book is packed with great information: 

•  There are over 400 pictures in the book.
• The book explains Levels of Inspection and Access Points
• When to refer to IRC and NFPA 211
• Angles of imagery
• Probable cause
• The Four Pathways
• Five modules featuring multiple installation types

1. Masonry fireplace
2. Masonry fireplace with an appliance - insert or hearth stove
3. Masonry thimble chimney with a solid or liquid fuel appliance(s)
4. Prefab fireplace & chimney
5. Prefab chimney with a solid fuel or liquid fuel appliance(s)

The open-book multiple-choice test is based on this guide, the Chim-Scan® Manual, and knowledge of the Chim-Scan® System. Each question is worth one point. Since this is an open-book test, 85% of correct answers are passing scores. 
You can take the test online. Once you finish the test (100 questions) and press the Submit Button, you will receive your pass/fail at that time. Your Certificate of Completion is ready to print directly off the site. You can take it up to two times before you incur an additional charge. 
Here is the breakdown of the test and manual cost: 
The training Manual is $200 in print form, including the test for one person (there is a retest fee if the test needs retaking more than twice). If you order your book(s) before 1/31/2025, you will only pay ($87 + $15.50 shipping.) 
For each test, it is only $50 for each individual from the same company. For information on taking the 
test, scan the QR code below, visit our website at www.chimscanfactorytraining.com, or give us a call to order at 641-472-7643. 

It’s here. The time of year that drives your chimney sweeping business – cold weather. Keeping your Chim-Scan® inspection equipment in stable temperatures is essential during these more frigid temperatures. Here are some great tips for weather extremes:
• If the temperatures are near freezing, such as 35°, it is important to store your equipment where temperatures will be warmer and more stable.
• If you accidentally leave the equipment in a freezing environment, please let it warm up in a warm area before use. Extreme temperature changes can cause erratic operation and lead to malfunctions.
• On the other hand, when summer temperatures rise, try to keep this equipment stored at 80° and below. Extreme temperatures, especially on a roof, can damage equipment.
• Take your Chim-Scan® equipment with you at night. Please don’t leave it in the truck. It may get cold (or too hot in the summer) or stolen.
• When you finish the job, please put your equipment in the front of your vehicle when traveling. It usually doesn’t bounce as severely as the back (remember riding in the back of the bus when going to school?) If the equipment is in the front, there’s also less chance of something falling on it.
When winter weather arrives, your Chim-Scan® equipment, laptops, iPads, and cell phones require extra care. Be sure to use extra caution when driving and working. If you have any questions, please get in touch with us. Thank you for your business!
#chimney sweeping, #cold weather care, #chim-scan equipment, #winter weather

Terra cotta flue tiles have been used for almost a century as an accepted liner for masonry chimneys. A brand-new flue may look like the photo shown on the right. The tile is new; it should not be broken (or, in this case, have a cutout view). 
 As the chimney is being built, flue tiles stack on each other and are mortared together with a joint. In the past, masons often used mortar such as type "S" or type "N" mortar, the same mortar they used to lay the brickwork. These mortars can erode, leading to open mortar joints and shifting flue tiles. Today, codes require a non-water-soluble refractory cement that withstands the onslaught of moisture. This creates longevity for your masonry flue. 
Equally important is a smooth interior mortar joint (specified by codes). The picture on the right is an example of a brand-new ideal joint. Mortar that protrudes into the flue can hinder flue gases and smoke. This may affect the way the fireplace burns. A smooth joint is an optimal joint.
Many other types of damage can happen to a masonry flue. To ensure your flue is in an operational-ready condition, ask the chimney sweep to continuously scan your chimney with a Chim-Scan® Internal Video Inspection System each year your chimney is cleaned.  Catching defects early and making repairs can preserve your investment in your fireplace, chimney, and home. 
#chimney inspection, #chimney camera, #chimney flue, #scanning chimney

​Prefabricated chimneys have been in use for decades as a Listed, accepted substitute for masonry chimneys. Prefabricated chimneys and venting product installations can vary based on the product, the installation type, and the appliance type. It’s important that these chimneys be inspected annually and cleaned. Inspecting the chimney with a Chim-Scan® Internal Evaluation System is a great way to ensure the chimney is in a continued operational condition.

All manufacturers of prefabricated chimneys test their products at a recognized laboratory to a test standard.is the creator of the test standards. Tests include several challenging factors the chimney must pass, including temperature, duration, torsion, chimney brushing, and rain tests, to name a few. 

Once the manufacturer successfully passes the test, the product installation instructions must be approved, each component properly labeled, and an agreement must be signed for random manufacturing plant inspections. Then the manufacturer is offered the Listing. 
The manufacturer may choose to offer a training program for installers. The installer's job is to install the chimney or vent, using the listed components to recreate it in the same manner as the manufacturer's installation during the testing for listing or approval. 

A new chimney pipe is shiny inside and should not have any denting or damage inside or outside. The joints should connect firmly, and all supporting components must be used. After a new chimney pipe is put into use, it must be inspected at least annually and cleaned as specified in the maintenance section. Again, the best way to see inside a series of chimney sections is with a Chim-Scan® Internal Video Inspection System.
​
With proper installation, usage, and maintenance, your prefabricated chimney system should give you years of use. After all, they have been used to vent fireplaces and hearth appliances for decades. 

Our Mini-Enviro Camera is a high-definition chimney inspection camera with nine bright LED lights surrounding the lens. Use them with our 100 or 211 Monitor/Controllers to capture images and/or videos. It is available for a variety of applications. 

The Mini-Enviro in a Bracket
The first and most popular version is the scanning bracket. This configuration is used to scan any chimney where the camera will fit, whether the chimney interior is metal or brick. Since this setup only allows a straight-on view, you must manually turn the camera with your rods, using the barber pole and reverse barber pole scanning techniques, as shown in the image (below). We include orange and white whisker stabilizers that are adjustable, interchangeable, and replaceable. Rod adaptors are available for most industry rods.

Mini-Enviro on Wired Gooseneck Rod
The second version of the Mini-Enviro Camera is attached to a wired Gooseneck Rod. This setup allows you to use the Mini-Enviro like a borescope. It can look in ash dumps, smoke chambers, and chimney chases without fuss. This easy-to-use camera is directly attached to the flexible pre-wired Gooseneck Rod. At the end of the Gooseneck, is a fitting that attaches to the cable on our Series 100 and 211 Monitor/Controllers.
​
The JS Ball Mini-Enviro with a Fixed 15° View
The third version of the Mini-Enviro Camera is called the JS Ball, originally custom-designed for a customer. This camera is fixed at a 15° angle for viewing multiple interior chimney defects such as misaligned flue tiles, open mortar joints, protruding mortar joints, cracks, damaged liners, and more! Like the Mini-Enviro Camera above, the chimney rods must be turned to scan the flue using the barber pole and reverse barber pole method. It is compatible with the Series 100 or Series 211 Monitor/Controllers. This small camera measures 5¼" high, 2" wide when facing head on, and 2 ½" from front to back.  Here are some of the features:

• High-Resolution Images and Videos.
• 9 bright LED Lights!
• Orange and White Stabilizer Whiskers are included.
• A rod adaptor is included (tell us which rods you use).

Mini-Enviro on wired telescoping painter’s pole
The last version of the Mini-Enviro is available on a 16' telescoping painter's pole. The connecting cable is built into the telescoping pole. As you increase the length, the interior cable expands with the rod, so it's not exposed. This version is for when you can’t get on the roof or walk in the attic. It extends your reach by 16 feet. It’s an excellent tool for inspecting attics with blown-in insulation where you can’t walk across the attic floor to check chimney clearances. You can also inspect exterior areas of the chimney or home that are hard to reach such as gutters or chimney chase exteriors. Yes, you could use a drone to look at an exterior area, but sometimes, a drone can’t be used or has limitations.
​
With all these variations, the Mini-Enviro is one of our most versatile cameras. It provides high-definition images and videos when used in conjunction with our Series 100 or 211 Units.

We began our venture into the chimney industry as chimney sweeps in Pennsylvania in the 1970s. We swept chimneys and inspected them with the only available tool—a flashlight and, later, a mirror. It always left us feeling discomfort that there wasn't a better way to see into the chimney, and we might be missing something. Thus, we began building the first designated chimney inspection camera, and 40 years later, we are still manufacturing chimney cameras. 

Since we were chimney sweeps, we knew a chimney camera had to be tough. Chimneys can be rough and damaged, have sharp edges, contain acids, and pose a multitude of risks to any camera. Our commitment still stands today as we continue to manufacture commercial quality equipment designed specifically for the chimney industry.
 
In the video, Tom shares a story that would have shattered most cameras. A drop off a 40-foot building with only a damaged switch and a repair of $350. Tom also demonstrates as he drops our camera off the mezzanine at a distance of 16'. 

We are committed to quality, and we repair and upgrade our equipment. We get it. We understand the challenges of inspecting, cleaning, and relining chimneys.