The Importance Of NFPA Codes And Standards

While many folks associate chimney sweeps with chimney cleaning, it is only one of many vital services they perform. But the main objective of a Certified Chimney Professional® is to reduce fire risk and exposure to harmful contaminants to keep your family safe when operating your fireplace, stove, or other heating appliances in your Mount Pleasant, WI, home. That’s why certified chimney professionals at Burlington Fireplace & Solar strictly adhere to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Codes and Standards.

What is the NFPA?

The job of a Chimney Sweep is one of the oldest and most dangerous professions in the U.S., as wood-burning fireplaces, stoves, and other heating appliances were the primary heat source. Since every chimney sweep had its way of doing things, injuries, including fatalities, were common. So, in the late 1890s, a group of professionals developed a national standard to eliminate deaths, injuries, and property damage from fire and electrical hazards. And in 1896, the NFPA was born. Today, the NFPA’s more than 300 codes and standards are internationally recognized in many industries, including electrical, manufacturing, firefighting, and other industries.

Why Is It Important?

The NFPA is vital because many states and municipalities, including Wisconsin, have adopted its codes and standards into law. For example, the 2013 Act 270, The Wisconsin Uniform Commercial Building Code, which went into effect on 04/18/2014, requires municipalities, individuals, and businesses to maintain compliance with the appropriate NFPA code to reduce or eliminate fire and electrical risk. Some of the common NFPA standards and codes that apply to the hearth industry include:

NFPA 211: Standard Code for Chimneys, Venting, and Solid Fuel Heating Appliances

The NFPA 211 was revised in 2019 to include the standard procedure for installing a decorative shroud in a manufactured chimney, a popular feature. It is also the standard chimney professionals use for designing, maintaining, inspecting, and installing chimney systems and solid fuel appliances.

NFPA 54-2021: Standard Code for Gas-Burning Heating Appliances

As you may have noticed, NFPA 211-2019 applies to solid fuel-burning appliances. So, what about that gas fireplace or stove? That’s where NFPA 54-2021 applies. Also known as the National Fuel Gas Code or ANSI Z223.1 is the standard code a professional chimney sweep must follow when working with gas fuel appliances like natural gas and liquified petroleum (LP).

NFPA 70: National Electric Code®

With the advancement in technology, Burlington Fireplace & Solar carries a wide range of exciting modern wood-burning, gas, pellet, and electric fireplaces. However, to ensure that your appliance is installed and maintained safely, we must follow the National Electrical Code® just like every electrician in the country.

NFPA Chimney Sweep Service in Burlington, WI

Don’t let your fireplace, chimney, vents, and attached heating appliances become a fire and safety hazard. Call Burlington Fireplace at 262-763-3522 or contact us online to schedule an NFPA Inspection with a Certified Chimney Sweep®.