Chimney versus Flue?

Question: What is the difference between a chimney and a flue?

Answer: A chimney is a vertical structure made of masonry or metal surrounding one or more flues. A flue, sometimes called the “chimney liner,” is the channel through which toxic gases and fumes produced during the heating process are contained and carried out of the home. One chimney may have several flues if the flues are properly separated. Chimneys help minimize the heat loss and generally add a decorative element to wood burning stoves, fireplaces and the home itself.

A well-maintained chimney and flue helps prevent chimney fires. Burning wood regularly creates an oily black substance called creosote. Over time, the creosote collects on the flue, becoming thick enough to ignite. The intensity of fire in creosote can be enough to crack the chimney liner, or flue. Cracks in the flue allow the heat through, weakening the chimney and combustibles such as wood framing. Over time, the combustibles can ignite, causing a house fire. To help protect those living under your roof, you can:

• have chimneys cleaned and maintained annually by a chimney specialist,
• check to be certain smoke detectors are installed and operating properly by testing once a month,
• and visually inspect the flue pipes for rust, discoloration or cracking you can see.

 As part of a general inspection, a we at National Property Inspections will observe the general condition of the chimney, note material used in construction, the height of the chimney and any unsafe conditions. We will also assess the interior firebox and hearth. Some chimney designs and heights may limit the extent of the inspection. Call Inspector Steve today for more answers to your chimney questions.

National Property Inspections®

Steve Matolka
Owner/Inspector

Residential ● Commercial ● Warranty Inspections ● Relocation
Phone: 704.675.1646 ● Fax: 704.675.5237
Email: NPI4Him@yahoo.com ● Web: www.Inspections4Him.com

Changing HVAC filters

Question: When should I change the filters on my heating /cooling system?

Answer: Filters on heating and cooling systems should be cleaned and checked once a month. As a rule of thumb, if you remove the filter and hold it up to the light you should be able to see through it. If you can’t, it’s probably time to replace it. An annual maintenance check in the spring and fall by a licensed, reputable repair professional is also a good idea.

Always check the manufacturer’s instructions first. Heating systems used in residential and commercial buildings are quite varied. Depending on geography and available fuels, common systems include: an oil or gas furnace, electric forced-air furnace, electric baseboard heat, hot water or steam heat using boilers, heat pumps or solar heat. Not all use filters.

Identifying the energy source used to heat a property and its delivery system is part of a general home inspection. When assessing the heating and cooling systems, an NPI professional will check for a master system shut-off switch. Having a manual master shutoff near such equipment is for safety and convenience. The inspector will also look at the general condition of the equipment, check for a maintenance history, check the filter condition if applicable, observe the ventilation system and, when possible, determine if the system functions when operated.

Since heating and cooling a home eats up about half what people spend on utilities, knowing the current condition of the heating system is important. A home inspector assesses hundreds of components in the home, providing an unbiased, independent assessment for clients. For more information on a home or commercial building inspection, contact your local National Property Inspections professional.

National Property Inspections®

Steve Matolka
Owner/Inspector

Residential ● Commercial ● Warranty Inspections ● Relocation
Phone: 704.675.1646 ● Fax: 704.675.5237
Email: NPI4Him@yahoo.com ● Web: www.Inspections4Him.com