Do I Need a Fireplace WETT Inspection?
A fireplace WETT Inspection is performed by a certified technician who is WETT Certified.
An inspection for the wood burning appliances in your home is important for a number of reasons, not the least of which is the safety of you and your family. With wood burning appliances, the potential for harmful pollutants to be released into your home as well as combustible materials to ignite is increased, so it is important that these appliances are regularly inspected and properly maintained.
First, What is a WETT Inspection?
The Wood Energy Technology Transfer (WETT) Inc. is a non-profit training and education association. This organization promotes the safe and effective use of wood-burning systems in Canada. They provide training and certification to those who have completed their courses. WETT-certified inspectors must abide by a code of ethics requiring professionalism in all aspects of their work.
By using a chimney sweep who is WETT certified, you can have confidence in their abilities and skills. They have the education to inspect your chimney, fireplace or wood stove to look for defects or elements that have eroded over time. A WETT-certified chimney sweep has the knowledge to clean and maintain your entire wood-burning system, including cleaning the chimney. Your WETT inspector may make recommendations for repairs or replacements.
What Kind of WETT Inspections Are There?
There are different kinds of inspections for your solid-fuel-burning system. There are visual, technical or invasive levels. A visual inspection might be performed when you are buying a house. A technical inspection is what is typically required by insurance companies or if you haven’t used your appliance for a while. The invasive inspection might be performed after a fire or if a concern is discovered in the technical inspection.
Your WETT-Certified professional can advise you on what type or level of inspection you might require.
Who Needs a Fireplace WETT Inspection?
If you have a wood-burning appliance like a fireplace, stove or pellet stove, you may need an inspection. Here are some areas where it is common to get a WETT-certified inspector in:
For Homebuyers and Sellers: This is a common time to get a WETT inspection. It can give peace of mind to both parties during a real estate transaction.
New Fireplace Owners: If you’ve recently purchased a wood-burning fireplace, a WETT inspection is a good idea to ensure it was properly installed.
Anyone with Concerns: If you notice any problems with your fireplace, such as smoke odours, difficulty starting a fire, or damaged components, you should get a WETT inspection.
How Often Do I Need An Inspection Of My Fireplace or Wood-Burning Stove?
The recommended frequency for a WETT inspection will depend on how you use your fireplace or wood-burning stove and how often.
An Annual Inspection: If you use your appliance regularly, an annual inspection is recommended. Fall is a great time to get an inspection before colder winter months and after it has remained dormant for a period of time. This ensures any potential problems are identified and addressed before you start using your fireplace regularly. If you use your wood burning system regularly, you may want to consider an inspection twice a year – Spring and Fall are ideal times.
Every Few Years: If you don’t use your wood-burning fuel system often (less than a few times a year), you could get an inspection every two or three years. It is still important to get periodic inspections and perform maintenance to maintain safety and efficiency.
Special Considerations: As mentioned, you may also want to get a WETT inspection when buying or selling your house with a wood-burning appliance, for insurance purposes or if you have a new or upgraded system.
When There is an Issue: If you notice damage, have smoke or smoke odour entering your home, difficulty starting a fire, or reduced heat, it is a good idea to get a WETT professional in to assess your system.
Benefits of a WETT Inspection for a Wood Stove or Wood-Burning Appliance
Safety First: A fireplace WETT inspection can identify potential fire hazards like creosote buildup, damaged flue liners, or improper clearances from combustibles. When your appliance isn’t working properly or isn’t maintained, this could lead to house fires or carbon monoxide poisoning.
Improved Efficiency: A clean and properly maintained fireplace will burn more efficiently, saving you money on firewood! Dirty chimneys can restrict airflow and air leaks can reduce heating efficiency.
Peace of Mind: Knowing your fireplace is safe and functioning properly allows you to relax and enjoy the ambiance it provides.
What Are The Costs For A Chimney Sweep Who Is Wett Certified?
Costs will vary depending on the level of inspection you require and the age of your wood-burning system. Costs will start at $150 but there are a variety of considerations that go into what an inspection will cost. We perform WETT inspections in the Victoria area and would be happy to give you a quote for a WETT-certified inspection. Every WETT inspection will come with a report and any recommendations for peak safety and operating efficiency.
Book a WETT Inspection in Victoria
Want a professional team to come out and perform a WETT inspection? We are experienced and WETT-certified. We’ve operated in the Victoria area for over 20 years and understand local building codes and the environment. Contact us online or call us at 778-977-3473 to book an appointment or to get a quote. We come out to your house, business, condo, or apartment in Victoria, Sidney, Oak Bay, Saanich, Langford, Mill Bay, Brentwood Bay, Esquimalt, North Saanich, Saanichton, Central Saanich, Shirley, Metchosin, Shawnigan Lake, Port Renfrew, Juan de Fuca, Cowichan Lake, Cowichan Valley.
