Sweeping Magazine- November 2014

Sweeping

November 2014 VOLUME 38 #10

The Journal of Chimney and Venting Technology

How To Create Ecstatic Customers NFPA 211, Changes Are They Coming?

Working With High Efficiency Oil-Burning Appliances

Join us February 18– 21 at the Marriott on Penn Square in Lancaster, PA for the best 4 days in the chimney and venting industry!

From the opening party to the closing banquet the National Chimney Sweep Guild National Convention is jam-packed with learning, networking, and fun!

November 2014 Volume 38 #10

Table of Contents Features P.6

13 Five Ways to Create Ecstatic Customers 16 NFPA 211, Changes Are They Coming?

18 Working with High Efficiency

Oil-Burning Appliances

20 Oil Flue Primer P.13

Departments 3 President’s Report P.16

4 Editor’s Letter 6 Where Has Your Sweeping Been? — NEW 8 Tech Q&A 9 Sweeps Advantage 10 Coach’s Corner 17 Progressive Perks

P.18 Sweeping: The Journal of Chimney and Venting Technology (ISSN# 10416692) is published 11 times annually, by the National Chimney Sweep Guild, 2155 Commercial Drive, Plainfield, IN 46168.

Annual dues to the National Chimney Sweep Guild are $479 for Voting Member Companies and $689 for Supplier Member Companies, of which $80 goes toward a subscription to Sweeping: The Journal of Chimney and Venting Technology. Additional annual subscriptions are available for $80 by contacting the National Chimney Sweep Guild at the office of publication (NCSG, 2155 Commercial Drive, Plainfield, IN 46168).

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: Sweeping: The Journal of Chimney and Venting Technology National Chimney Sweep Guild 2155 Commercial Drive Plainfield, IN 46168

30 History Project 32 Dates and Events 34 Around the Tech Center 35 Classifieds 35 Darwin Awards 36 Humor

On the Cover: Vintage photo of German chimney sweeps in 1920’s Berlin. Image donated by Steve Snyder of Big Steve’s Chimney Service in San Luis Obispo, Calif.

NOVEMBER 14 SWEEPING 1

ResourcePage

NATIONAL CHIMNEY SWEEP GUILD

Committee Chairs and Task Forces for 2014 – 2015 Bylaws

Government Affairs

NFPA 211 Representative

Jeremy Biswell (913) 236-7141 fluesbrothers@yahoo.com

Phil Mitchell (603) 659-7776 sootski@aol.com

Jim Brewer (757) 523-2400 jbrewer@magic-sweep.com

Convention Site Selection

International Relations

NFPA 31 Representative

Diane Pilger (631) 863-2460 chimneygal@aol.com

John Pilger (631) 863-2460 chimneyman@aol.com

John Pilger (631) 863-2460 chimneyman@aol.com

Ethics

Long Range Planning

NFPA 54

Andy Raycroft (703) 836-7858 randy@rooftopchimneysweeps.com

Jeremy Biswell (913) 236-7141 fluesbrothers@yahoo.com

Jim Brewer (757) 523-2400 jbrewer@magic-sweep.com

Governance

Membership

Technical Advisory Council

Jay Walker (850) 562-4692 sweepingJ@aol.com

Bob Ferrari (530) 221-3331 bob@flueseason.com

Michael Segerstrom (908) 253-9190 chimneysweeps@optonline.net

NCSG BOARD OF DIRECTORS 2014-2015 President Jeremy Biswell (913) 236-7141 fluesbrothers@yahoo.com At-Large Director Diane Pilger (631) 863-2460 chimneygal@aol.com Treasurer, Region 3 Ron Rust (803) 730-5858 tophatswp@aol.com Vice President, Region 5 Jasper Drengler (715) 304-8934 drengler01@gmail.com Region 1 Phil Mitchell (603) 659-7776 sootski@aol.com Region 2 Vacant

TECHNICAL ADVISORY COUNCIL To contact any member of the Technical Advisory Council, please call (317) 203-0088 and select the extension for the person who is best qualified to answer your question: Chris Prior Masonry Construction and Restoration and Priorfire Fireboxes (317) 203-0088 x: 2 Jim Brewer Gas Venting and NFPA 54 (317) 203-0088 x: 3 John Pilger Oil Flue Sizing, Relining or NFPA 31 (317) 203-0088 x: 4 Randy Brooks IRC, NFPA 211 or Customer Communications (317) 203-0088 x: 5 Bart Ogden Stainless Steel Lining, Video Scanning and Narrative Report Writing (317) 203-0088 x: 6

Fred Joy Installation and Venting of Pellet Stoves (317) 203-0088 x: 7

Region 6 Bob Ferrari (530) 941-5818 bob@flueseason.com

Jay Walker Dryer Vents (317) 203-0088 x: 8

Secretary Gregg Boss (636) 391-2226

Rett Rasmussen Vented and Vent Free Gas Logs and Controls (317) 203-0088 x: 9

englishsweep@att.net

Rich Martinez Dryer Vents or Masonry (317) 203-0088 x: * Rich Rua General Sweeping or Relining (317) 203-0088 x: 0

Be advised that advice given by NCSG’s Technical Advisory Council (TAC) reflects best practices of the chimney sweeping industry. However, we are unable to account for any particular type of situation since regional variations in construction practices and additional environmental, physical and geographical factors necessarily vary the level of service appropriate for a particular fireplace and/or chimney. Additionally, local laws and ordinances may govern and/or supersede the information and any recommendations provided. Final determinations are the responsibility of a local professional with firsthand knowledge of the situation, and the local Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ). Neither NCSG nor any member of TAC will be held liable for any damages whatsoever resulting from the use of or reliance on information provided by anyone associated with TAC. By your use of this member benefit you acknowledge acceptance of these terms.

ADVERTISING RATES for Sweeping: The Journal of Chimney & Venting Technology may be obtained by contacting Malisa Minetree at (317) 815-4688 or sweepingads@me.com

NCSG encourages industry partners to submit press releases and articles to editor Darcy Marlett at dmarlett@ncsg.org.

Submissions should contain items of interest or importance to the chimney and venting industry. Submissions should not contain direct solicitations, prices, or a call to action on the part of our readers. Submissions may contain images or artwork attached in a .jpg format.

In all cases, NCSG reserves the right to edit submissions to fit space limitations, keep the release and publish at a later date, or refuse to publish the release for any reason. Neither publishing, nor refusing to publish the submission should be considered a statement of NCSG’s opinion regarding the release.

NCSG further reserves the right to reject at any time any advertising determined not to be in keeping with the publication’s standards. Acceptance of advertising by Sweeping magazine does not necessarily constitute endorsement of products or services advertised. NCSG does not make any effort to review or substantiate claims made by advertisers. © 2014 National Chimney Sweep Guild, 2155 Commercial Drive, Plainfield, IN 46168. (317) 837-1500

2 SWEEPING NOVEMBER 14

Region 4 Kevon Binder Jr. (517) 423-2832 kevon@drflue.com

At-Large Director Fred Joy (785) 986-6432 joyfredm@live.com Supplier Representative Edmund Poplawski (570) 504-7107 epoplawski@olympiachimney.com

STAFF 2155 Commercial Drive Plainfield, IN 46168 (317) 837-1500 Fax: (317) 837-5365 Frances Kelly Excecutive Director fkelly@ncsg.org Megan McMahon Director of Finance mmcmahon@ncsg.org Debbie Cornelius Membership Development Coordinator dcornelius@ncsg.org Donna Lee Kasmer CSIA Certification Coordinator dkasmer@csia.org Claire Rutledge Program Coordinator crutledge@ncsg.org

Darcy Marlett Director of Communications and Marketing dmarlett@ncsg.org Tom Spalding CSIA Director of Communications and Marketing tspalding@csia.org Ashley Edridge Director of Education ashley@csia.org Sara Sichting Office Manager ssichting@ncsg.org

JEREMY BISWELL NCSG PRESIDENT

President’s Report

Happy November!

I

write this from the comfort of my bedroom. It’s about 8 pm and at 2 pm today I left one of my crews to finish a job because a headache was setting in. By 3 pm, my headache had advanced to a full on migraine.

The body has interesting ways of telling you things, after over twenty cell phone calls, numerous texts, and several appointments, all happening before that moment at 2 pm, my body was starting to reject this work day. My mind felt fine, but my body was telling me different.

Some of the hardest workers I know are chimney sweeps. I have met fellow sweeps who after 30 years, still work six to seven days per week alone with no secretary and very little help. The majority of our members are one to three person operators.

Chimney sweeps are amazing hard working people.

Luckily, I was able to call it an early day and head home to my comfortable bed and darkness of my bedroom. As I drove home, I recalled the days where I would have muscled through and kept going in an attempt to not get behind. No one schedules headache relief days. I also thought of NCSG members who may not have the option to call it quits for the day.

Times are good right now and there is a huge injection of capital into our businesses. It is only natural for people to try to squeeze in one more job or push a bit harder or take that ever so tempting one story easy repair that the customer is dangling in your face to do on a Saturday because they want that Thanksgiving fire.

over the course of the next few months. If you need a copy of the online link, please contact or email the NCSG office or check the National Chimney Sweep Guild Facebook page for link.

Adding your name to the petition only takes a couple of minutes.

Make sure to register and make travel plans for convention. Staff is working hard to make it enjoyable for all. According to recent emails to members, we have secured an exciting entertainer for our banquet that has appeared on the TV show Americas Got Talent. Check out our Convention webpage at www. ncsgconvention.org.

Have a good November and a Happy Thanksgiving!

Jeremy Biswell, NCSG President

One Easy Step to Stop Smoking for Life...

Smoktite now comes with a LIFETIME WARRANTY on every. bucket.

And you thought Christmas came only once a year.

Listen to your body and pace yourself.

I recently attended a phone meeting with members of Hearth, Patio, and Barbecue Association (HPBA) about the NFPA 211 code changes. Like many in the NCSG, a large amount of HPBA members, distributors, and manufacturers are in opposition of the changes.

The NCSG has developed an online petition to be presented to the NFPA 211 committee. Information and a link were sent out to membership via email and reminder emails will be sent to members several times

NOVEMBER 14 SWEEPING 3

Editor’s Letter

H

appy November Sweeping Readers!

Thank you for steeling away a little time to read this month’s issue of Sweeping. I am sure your phone is ringing off the hook with customers hoping to have their hearth and chimney in tip top condition before the holidays.

This month’s issue we focus on oil burning appliances. John Pilger brings us his expertise on high efficiency oil burning appliances on page 18 and Ashley Eldridge, CSIA Education Director, shares oil flue basics on page 20.

Over on the business side of the house Jerry Isenhour brings you words of wisdom from some of business’s great minds and Taylor Hill with Spark Marketer offers advice on creating happy customers.

4 SWEEPING NOVEMBER 14

DARCY MARLETT EDITOR

You will also notice on page 6 a new feature. Thomas Rhines and Ashley Eldridge brought their copy of Sweeping along with them to the top of the Mackinac Bridge in Michigan and now we want to see where you will take your copy. Whether if it’s in front of a local landmark or someplace you go on a far off vacation send us your photos. Photos can be sent to marketing@ncsg.org.

Last but not least be sure to register for convention! Head to our new convention website at www.ncsgconvention.org for registration, schedule, hotel details and much more.

Have a happy thanksgiving with your friends and family!

Cheers,

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Featuring Hope Stevenson, Mark Stoner and Bill Ryan

DAY 1

DAY 2

8:30 – 8:45 - Welcome Session

8:30 – 10:30 - Networking with Building Inspectors and Code Officials by Using Codes and Standards

- Introduction by Olympia

8:45 – 10:30 - How to Build a Multi Truck Service Operation - Part 1 - with Mark Stoner

Running a service operation is difficult, especially one with multiple trucks. Learn how to track and schedule the technical side of the operation, while making the right moves with marketing to support and even increase your business.

10:30 – 12:00 - Getting the Customer to Take Action - with Hope Stevenson

We are all responsible for getting the customer to take action, whether it’s scheduling an appointment, getting them to buy something from your store or getting them to commit to a needed repair. Learn the quickest, most efficient way to get the customer to take action by identifying their personality type and making your presentation match their preferred style.

12:00 – 1:00 – Lunch 1:00 – 1:30 - Time to Get Involved - with CSIA Mark Stoner Benefits of being CSIA certified.

1:30 – 3:30 - How to Build a Multi Truck Service Operation - Part 2 - with Mark Stoner

3:30 – 4:30 - End of Day Review

- with Olympia and Mark and Hope

- with Bill Ryan

Attendee will learn proven techniques for incorporating their chimney knowledge into relationships with code officials and building inspectors. The general legal guidelines for these relationships will be provided. Avenues to turn these relationships into referrals and sales will be discussed; turning your chimney knowledge into a constant stream of profit.

10:30 – 12:00 - Hiring the Right People - Part 1 - with Hope Stevenson

One of the most important things we do as leaders is create our team. At the end of the day, it is the difference between us and our competition and ultimately, failure or success. Learn how to find quality candidates and thoroughly vet them through the application, references, and interview process. Every step counts! Hire the people that will fit with your company!

12:00 – 1:00 – Lunch 1:00 – 2:45 - Hiring the Right People - Part 2

- with Hope Stevenson

2:45 – 3:00 - Closing

- with Olympia Chimney Seminar Fee: $199/person Early Registration Seminar Fee: $149 if registered by November 28. 2014 Lunch Provided both days

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Technical Q&A

BY MICHAEL SEGERSTROM, NCSG TECHNICAL ADVISORY CHAIR

Q

I have a client that is getting one of these modern high efficiency oil fired boilers. It’s not a condensing boiler, nor does it require a positive pressure vent system. The boiler manufacturer requires a metal vent system or a metal lined masonry chimney. Is a stainless steel 316 alloy liner appropriate?

A

The answer for this question is not always as simple as it seems. A 316 alloy liner may in fact not be suitable, depending on the efficiency of the appliance.

A 316 alloy liner is great for high heat applications, and can handle certain amounts of flue gas condensation. High efficiency oil fired appliances, and potentially even certain gas appliances, may have much lower flue gas temperatures, which can result in higher amounts of flue gas condensation.

If this is the case, with an oil fired boiler, the flue gas condensation can combine with acidic combustion by-products, and deterioration or pitting of the 316 alloy liner material may occur.

AL 29-4C alloy may be the better choice. This alloy performs well in low heat higher condensation environments.

Certain high-efficiency appliance manufacturers may specify which alloy to use, but not all manufacturers will do this. If the appliance manufacturer doesn’t specify which is alloy, then we should contact the manufacturer of the brand liner we use, and provide them with appliance information and efficiency. They

8 SWEEPING NOVEMBER 14

may not offer a 316 alloy liner that has been tested for really high efficiency applications. The manufacturer may indicate that their AL29-4C liner will be the alloy to use.

It is also important to advise the client to have the flue/liner swept at least annually, and not just to maintain the warranty.

Modern high efficiency oil appliances will often produce less soot. When inspected, the liner might not “look that dirty”.

Even with less soot being produced, the flue gas condensation combining with even small amounts of soot can create an acidic residue that can deteriorate a stainless steel liner.

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NOVEMBER 14 SWEEPING 9

The

Coach’s Corner

BY JERRY ISENHOUR

Connecting the Dots our dreams? Do we have a clear vision of the destination?

And, as Jobs suggests, do we trust our gut, our intuition, our destiny to reveal the dots going forward? And do we study the dots from our past to learn from our mistakes? And does this reflection of our past guide our future?

Whenever we travel, we buy our ticket, we make our reservations; we fuel the car, we check our maps, we pack our bags. In other words, we anticipate the dots needed to reach our destination quickly and efficiently from past experience.

H

ere are quotes from three legendary men who excited and invigorated their own generations and beyond.

They are visionaries who continue to influence thinking in business and living around the globe even thought two are no longer with us.

To quote Steve Jobs, a truly astounding visionary: “You can’t connect the dots looking forward; you can only connect them looking backwards. So you will have to trust that the dots will somehow connect in the future. You have to trust in something — your gut, destiny, karma, whatever. This approach has never let me down, and it has made all the difference in my life”.

But do we do this in all the phases of our business endeavors?

Do we have a clear and concise plan as to which dots are out there, which connect to which and the order in which they are connected? Or, do we avoid the dots that present us a challenge we really don’t want to face? At times do we feel that a dot left out here, another left out there will not have a negative effect on the outcome?

One of the systems each business owner must establish to connect the dots in order to move forward is review the past.

What caused the mistake? Was the handoff of information proper? Was it a lack of information? Was it a lack of training?

Was it to the wrong member of the team? Does the team have a flaw we continue to endure as we feel we may be

«

I invented nothing new.

I simply assembled the discoveries To quote Jeffrey Gitomer, a phenomenal sales coach and of other trainer: “People hate to be sold, but they love to buy”. Jeffrey also stated, “You know what you need to do; are you doing it”. men behind whom were And to quote Henry Ford, one of the most prolific forward centuries of thinkers of the 20th century, “I invented nothing new. I simply work. Progress assembled the discoveries of other men behind whom were happens when centuries of work. Progress happens when all the factors that all the factors make for it are ready and then it is inevitable”. that make for How can we use their thoughts and processes in our daily lives it are ready to move to the level we envision? How do we use these words and then it is of wisdom to help us achieve our goals, our dreams? inevitable.

— Henry Ford The question we must ask ourselves, have we formulated the

»

dots that make up the map that will take us to our future and

10 SWEEPING NOVEMBER 14

held hostage? Whatever it was this was a dot that has to be connected.

Without the connection there will be forever a break in the system. And the system will never deliver its true potential; it is missing one small part. How many major catastrophes have been caused by a minor part flawed.

Job’s vision. Look at the telephone you likely are using, you see the vision of Steve Jobs, device with more power and memory than a mainframe computer that took up and entire room 50 years ago.

So the challenge you face is the dots: identify and connect them, results follow.

«

Right now your work load is flowing, but you also know this

You can’t connect the dots looking forward; you can only connect them looking backwards.

So you will have to trust that the dots will somehow connect in the future. You have to trust in something — your gut, destiny, karma, whatever. This approach has never let me down, and it has made all the difference in my life.

— Steve Jobs

As Henry Ford showed in his manufacturing of charcoal briquettes, a process invented by Ellsworth Zwoyer 1897, but which Ford was the first to take to market was an example of looking at the work of others; then perfecting it to a market product. He did it by connecting the dots others had not even seen. Ford took the raw material (left over sawdust from his manufacturing plant), went into the charcoal business. Further he then marketed the product through his Ford dealerships even giving charcoal grills as standard equipment on many of the Model A and Model T he made. Was it successful? I think we would agree that the Kingsford Charcoal brand became a huge success, ownership from Ford to Kingsford and now a part of the Clorox brand.

Steve Jobs did not invent computers or telephones, but the influence he has had in each guides our very way of life today.

True visionaries, Like Steve Jobs, may have made massive mistakes along the way. But in the process they learned to connect the dots that others either never saw or chose to avoid.

Likely the steps you take today and in the future in the way your business communicates and stores data, it is a result of the

We Want To Say

»

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trend will soon halt. As you read this you are likely in the middle of your Fall season, but watch closely, in only a few short weeks your backload will diminish, likely following that will be a diminishment of your bank account, and if not kept invigorated perhaps your drive to succeed will suffer as the nest dot you face. Your goal and task as a manager is to insure that the dots to continue a positive flow connect together, otherwise the flow moves to the negative.

One of the visionaries of our own industry, Bob Daniels, heard of a guy who conquered this named Roland Robidoux.

Bob did not invent forward scheduling, rather Bob witnessed the idea, took the concept to a new height with the tools for implementation, and shared how to do it, and perfected the tools to do it. Remember the connection to the dentist in his early promotional concept? Bob Daniels was another true visionary who learned and put to use what he saw to build an empire in the industry in which we work. He is a man from whom thousands of us received a cassette tape or a CD twice a year filled with valuable insights and business building tips. This dot connection has worked for many, but to make it work you have to work at it. I can well remember one of his messages on a cassette tape I heard one day between jobs as he explained the value of a customer for life over the course of the lifetime, I think he had a number in the high 30 thousands, with inflation, what is that customer worth today over the lifetime?

So what are the dots on your map, the map to your destination?

Likely you know what you need to do, but the question remains as always, you know what to do, are you doing it? You want to

«

If you can dream it you can achieve it. You will get all you want in life if you help enough other people get what they want.

— Zig Zigler

»

sell products and services, but do you truly understand that the customer hates to be sold, but loves to buy? Have you studied this thought and understood that this is all a part of the task of building the customer beyond satisfied, move him to loyal and with a goal of him being enthused!

Any winning general in battle has likely reviewed past battles, perhaps D Day, Waterloo, Gettysburg, or even Custer’s Last Stand. Any sharp military mind studies history and uses it for his advantage in the present and into the future. A part of the required curriculum at West Point!

So, it is up to you to decide if the time is now. You can realize your dreams, but you must study your past, study the success of others and use this selfeducation as the force to drive you forward. Or you can move forward, the dots will be out there somewhere, but it will be kind of like looking at a star filled night, you can see the stars, but can you touch them?

I close with the thoughts of that tremendous motivator Zig Ziglar; “If you can dream it you can achieve it.

You will get all you want in life if you help enough other people get what they want”! Think about it and decide that you will live your dreams!

12 SWEEPING NOVEMBER 14

BY TAYLOR HILL SPARK MARKETER

Five Ways to Create Ecstatic

O

ne of the questions we get often here at Spark Marketer is: What more can a business owner do to distinguish himself in the market? I think the number one answer to that question is to do whatever it takes for your customers to become raving fans, ecstatic ambassadors of your products and services. That’s obviously easier said than done, so we wanted to give you five practical things that you can implement this week to help you on your way to a new level of engaged, enthusiastic customers.

1 — Implement I’m putting this in the number one spot for only one reason.

We find many business owners get the information, write the information down and have all the best intentions in the world, yet they never implement what they’ve read or heard. You have to be a dedicated implementer of ideas in order to better your business. If you cannot do that it doesn’t matter what tips or tricks you learn from anyone because they’ll never be implemented.

We have a client that has done exceptionally well since we’ve started working with him. We recently interviewed him for a webinar and asked him what he felt was the number one thing he did that has helped his business. His answer was simple.

He said he takes one thing at a time and implements it into his business until he never has to think about it again. This level of commitment to implementation has had a dramatic effect

on the growth of his business! That’s why if you want to have enthusiastic excited fans for your customer base, you must get really committed and really good at implementing changes that will lead your company and your customers there.

2 — Attitude There are all kinds of sayings about attitude; “your attitude determines your altitude” is the one I always remember. But the real lesson in attitude for me has come from relationships that I have with my family and close friends. They’re the ones that normally deal with me when I have an attitude that isn’t very good. And the truth is nobody likes to be around anyone that has a bad attitude! Another truth is good attitudes overcome bad situations every time.

I find that most people are really good about calling out other people’s bad attitudes and yet we are terrible at recognizing our own bad attitudes. So making sure that you are doing your job with the absolute best attitude you can muster on any given day, every day is extremely important. Even if you are not the person that’s in front of the customer every day, you are still in front of your technicians and the people who are on the phone with your customers every day. If you are not dealing with employees with a positive good attitude, then many of them will take your attitude directly to your customer. So just starting with a good attitude every day will make all the difference in the world – both for you and for those around you.

NOVEMBER 14 SWEEPING 13

3 — Be Friendly One of the things about being in a “service business” is it implies that you are going to serve your customer. Part of serving a customer in this day and time is communicating well with that customer in a manner that is pleasant and conversational, in other words friendly.

Think of it this way: you hire an electrician to come into your home and fix a light switch and you pay him a fair wage of $100 to do so. When he enters your home he asks you to point to the switch you need fixed, and the panel so he can turn the electricity off while he works on the switch. Then without a word, does the work, goes out to his truck and brings you back a bill. He hands you the bill and waits on the porch and assumes you’re going to write him a check. While this person might have done the work and done it well, he is not engaged with you one bit in the process. He has forgotten that you are a human being.

On the other hand, what if he came to your home, used your name when he talked to you, and asked a couple of questions about your kids or the pictures of the dogs or cat on the fridge? What if he took just a minute to explain the work, how much it would cost, and what payment options he offered?

Then after it was all very clear, what if he asked if there were any other small tasks he could help you with or give you an estimate for during the visit? Would that make a difference? Of course it would.

4 — Use of Words Mark Twain once said, “The difference between the right word and the almost right word is the difference between lightning and a lightning bug.” Do you ever take notice of the words you are using to communicate with your customers and your employees? The tone of the language you use to describe problems and solutions can make a huge impact on the perception people have of your business.

Your customer is your closest ally in your business. Without their participation, you wouldn’t have much, would you?

Do the words you use to communicate with them help to convey that you are happy to be invited to be a part of the solution, and happy to help them as a valued customer?

Do customers and employees ever comment about the way you make them feel stupid, like they could never know as much as you do about the company you run? Words create a powerful perception of who you are, and they set the tone for every interaction you have. By changing the words you use, you can literally change the interactions you have. Do you get pushback on price all the time? Do your conversations with clients often feel adversarial? Perhaps you are inviting these interactions simply by the language style you use to communicate. Remember, your business is not about you and what you know; it’s about connecting with and becoming a part of your customers’ world. It’s the connection between human beings that makes us care about each other. It’s the caring that counts.

Think about how your customer talks. Listen to the tone they use, the way they carry on a conversation and really listen to

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what they are asking you or telling you. You are privileged to be invited to walk into the middle of their problem, on their turf, in their home, They may be frustrated, but listen beyond the frustration, find the opportunity to be of service, and communicate with words that cause that frustration to melt into relief and appreciation.

turn that customer into an enthusiastic fan! These situations aren’t easy to navigate, because often tempers can flare and emotions can run high on both sides. But the wise business owner refuses to give in to the temptation to let defensiveness stall out any hope of recovering a good relationship, if there is any chance of doing so with honor.

5 — Always Ask for Feedback

Taylor Hill is co-owner and Crew Chief at Spark Marketer, an online marketing services company specializing in the chimney and hearth industries. He is a regular, passionate contributor to any conversation within earshot, especially when it involves marketing and customer service.

I think one of the biggest mistakes we make in the service business is neglecting to ask for feedback about the job we’ve done. I think it’s just as important, if not more so, for us to ask for specific feedback on how we’ve done with our customer service. Have we met and/or exceeded our customer’s expectation with the work we did as well as how well we have treated them or communicated with them?

Feedback can take the form of a review that is online on Google or a third-party service (we love that, and it’s great for your marketing efforts!). However don’t turn away verbal feedback or a testimonial email that comes in because that can always be used on your website and in other types of ads and marketing materials.

It’s nice to be able to use the positive feedback you receive to promote your business, but just as crucial are the insights you can glean when you miss the mark and a customer bothers to let you know it. What an opportunity to engage in real communication with customers, and win back the chance to

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T

NFPA 211, CHANGES, ARE THEY COMING?

he NFPA 211 technical committee has proposed certain changes to the next code edition. These changes are currently going through the public comment phase.

This phase closes on November 14, 2014. Following the public comment phase, the technical committee will hold a meeting to discuss the public comments and complete a second draft of the proposed changes. This meeting will be held sometime in the Spring of 2015 and is open to the public.

One of the proposed changes that is receiving a lot of attention relates to the use of after-market products on factory built chimney and fireplace systems. This portion of the proposed changes, if adopted, will mandate that only manufacturer listed parts or parts approved by the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) can be used in specific factory built systems.

The proposal raises a couple of questions from a sweep’s perspective. One of those questions is what happens if the manufacturer of the factory built system has gone out of business. In such a situation, it will likely be very difficult to obtain a listed replacement part. Consequently, the sweep will then be left with obtaining approval for an after-market part from the AHJ. The AHJ, however, may not have the expertise necessary to determine if an after-market part is appropriate on a given system. This may cause the AHJ to simply deny a sweep’s request for approval out of an abundance of caution.

If that happens, the only other option that may be available under the code is to replace the entire system. That would, undoubtedly, come at a great cost to the homeowner.

16 SWEEPING NOVEMBER 14

Another issue that may arise is how the listing or AHJ approval requirement effects a sweep completing a chimney inspection.

Sweeps conducting a chimney inspection could be placed in the tough position of ensuring that all the parts are listed and/ or have been approved by the AHJ. This could be difficult and time consuming as a sweep will need to identify the specific manufacturer and model of the system and compare the parts identified during the inspection to the parts that are listed for that system.

Further, if the sweep discovers that a certain part is not listed, it will then have to go to the AHJ to determine if they approved, or will approve, a particular part for the system. Again, this process will be time consuming and may necessitate an increased cost to complete a chimney inspection. It also opens up the potential for increased liability claims against sweeps if they fail to identify a part that was improper under the proposed code change.

Given the above issues, sweeps should pay particular attention to the proposed changes and whether they eventually become part of the 2016 code edition. While the proposed changes are still a couple of years from taking effect if they pass, the time to provide input on the changes from the industry is now.

Eugene M. LaFlamme is a partner at McCoy Leavitt Laskey LLC, a national defense firm specializing in fire and explosion cases. Eugene’s practice focuses on the defense of companies involved in the hearth and chimney industries. He can be contacted at elaflamme@MLLlaw.com or (262) 5227000.

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BY DEBBIE CORNELIUS MEMBERSHIP DEVELOPMENT COORDINATOR

A Great Way To Interact With Your Peers!

However, there are terms and conditions governing behavior that must be observed for the benefit of the other members.

What better way to immediately connect with people who share similar interests! The NCSG Discussion List connects you with members, suppliers and NCSG Board members. It is a great network to ask for information or suggestions, give your ideas, and help other members and can be especially helpful during the busy season when time is so valuable.

To subscribe to the NCSG Discussion List email ssichting@ncsg. org with your request. You will then receive an invitation to join and once you have accepted you will be connected to many chimney sweeps all over the country.

Once you subscribe to the list your email address will be placed on a central mailing list and anything posted by those belonging to the list is then distributed to all other members automatically.

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BY JOHN PILGER

Working Working with High High with Efficiency Efficiency Oil Burning Burning Oil Appliances Appliances

W

hen I started sweeping chimneys back in 1983 oilfired appliances were king in the Northeast, MidAtlantic, Great Lakes and Pacific Northwest. They were a popular choice because many homes had limited access to natural gas. Over the past 10 years oil-fired appliances have greatly declined. Some of the reasons may be price fluxuating of oil, maintenance cost, affordability of the replacement of appliances with gas-fired appliances, and heavy advertising by the gas industry to homeowners that oil is dirty. In the past that used to be true, but with new technology and better trained oil technicians I am finding much cleaner burning oil appliances.

These new high efficiency clean burning appliances venting systems still need to be serviced. Higher efficient oil-fired appliances produce condensation, which mixes with the sulfur and unburnt carbon in the venting system. These acids will rapidly deteriorate the clay flue lining causing debris to block or partially block the bases of the chimney. It is extremely important for these new high efficiency oil-fired appliances to be properly vented. It is also important that they are properly sized. To quote the CSIA Public Safety Brochure “Annual servicing of Oil-Fired Appliances� Many homeowners are not aware that the chimney interior, when not properly maintained, will decay and break down. Failing to have an annual chimney inspection allows such deterioration to remain undetected.

Let’s start with draft; we all know that draft is defined as the pressure or temperature difference between exterior atmosphere and the interior of the venting system. That pressure difference in and oil-fired appliance creates a force or

18 SWEEPING NOVEMBER 14

suction in the chimney that pulls the exhaust gases out of the appliance.

When the appliance fires up, hot gas rises through the heat exchange to the connector pipe and up the chimney. When the burner is off, the chimney is cold; the air inside the combustion chamber, heats exchanger, connector pipe and chimney is at atmospheric pressure. As the burner starts up, the burner fan creates static pressure. The fan pushes air into the combustion chamber where it mixes with the fuel oil. The electrodes provide the ignition to fire up the burner. The internal temperatures rise quickly and the combustion gases expand to more than twice their volume. This expanded pressure will add to the pressure created by the burner fan and will push the combustion gases through the heat exchanger into the connecting pipe and the chimney. It is the combined effect of the positive pressure of the burner fan, the temperatures in the combustion chamber, and the hot flue gases escaping up from the chimney with make the appliance properly vent.

Oil burners need a steady draft to operate properly. They also need enough draft, if not, there will be operational problems.

To regulate the draft a barometric draft regulator is used. The barometric damper consists if a weighted swing door that opens to allow room air to flow into the flue and mix with the flue gases. The room air mixes and cools the flue gases which will reduce the draft. When the draft drops below the barometric damper setting the counter weight closes the damper. A barometric damper cannot increases the draft, only reduce it. On some barometric dampers the counter weight

can be installed on either side of the damper depending on the connecting pipe configuration- if the damper is to be installed on the vertical run of the connector than they weight must be on the area of the damper marked V the same goes for the horizontal run marked H. Some newer high efficiency appliances do not use a draft regulator because their burners create enough static pressure to move the flue gases up the chimney.

Manufacturers now require that new high efficiency oil-fired appliances chimney be sized properly. This may require that the old masonry chimney need to be relined. It is also stated in the manufactures installation manual that the UL listed chimney lining be used, this should include insulation. Some liners are tested for oil-fired appliances without insulation but I would not recommend this. The flue gas temperatures are so low in the new appliances that condensation can be a real problem. It is extremely important to keep the chimney and flue gases as warm as possible.

It is important that the installer of the chimney liner measure for proper draft. Here in America we measure draft in inches of water column. One inch of water column is he pressure difference required to lift a column of water one inch up a tube.

Draft in oil-fired appliances are checked in two places, overthe-fire (draft at the top of the combustion chamber) and in the connector pipe, not less than six inches from the flue outlet. It is also very important that the barometric damper be level and plumb. The door should swing freely.

Draft over the fire is the most important and should be measured first. Normally an over the fire draft of 0.1 to 0.2 will be sufficient. If the appliance is plugged you won’t be able to put your hand in front of the inspection door without burning yourself and you will also have a positive pressure reading on your draft gauge. If you get a positive draft reading, it is advised to have the homeowner call their oil technician.

Some equipment is able to operate under very low, zero draft and even positive draft. When in doubt, check the manufacturer’s instructions. The draft in the connecting pipe will be greater than the over the fire reading. Typical draft readings at the breech should be -.03 to -.07. Too much draft can cause overfiring and damage the heat exchangers or crack or warp the appliance. That’s the reason why it is important to set the barometric damper to the proper manufacturers settings.

If you service oil-fired appliance

chimneys or reline them it is important you have the proper measurement tools. Digital manometers are very affordable and necessary. Stay away from the pocket draft gauges. If you don’t feel comfortable taking over-the-fire reading, you need to partner with a National Oilheat Research Alliance (NORA) Certified oil burner technician.

Next article (part 2) we will go into servicing and sizing of oilfired appliances chimneys.

Sources: CSIA, NORA, (National Oilheat Research Alliance) Oil Heat Technicians manual.

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f you’re sweeping chimneys in the Northeast you will run into oil flues. They are often in need of repair and it can be a lucrative addition to your business.

Do I need any special equipment to sweep an oil flue?

Many sweeps in the Northeast use a small vacuum dedicated to oil in an effort to keep the vacuum they use for fireplaces and wood stoves cleaner. Polypropylene brushes are best for sweeping oil flues. The plastic bristles give you better coverage, don’t leave streaks, and the polypropylene brushes don’t get damaged like the wire brushes. For chimneys venting oil-fired appliances it is also advisable to bring extra drop cloths, just in case.

What should a chimney sweep look for if they are called to sweep a chimney with an oil-fired appliance?

Naturally, the most important thing to consider is to make certain that the oil soot is contained. If it does escape the vacuum, it can be a mess to clean up. Do not try to wipe it up but instead use the vacuum to pick it up. Oily soot will smear and be even harder to clean if you don’t do it that way. The connector should be taken outdoors and swept to avoid the risk of releasing soot in the home.

Most of these appliances are furnaces or boilers with an occasional water heater thrown in for good measure. That means that they are often in an area that may have difficult access, like going down the stairs to a crowded basement.

For this reason many sweeps will keep a small vacuum so it is easier to get to the chimney in that crowded area of the basement. It will also be important to cover the surrounding area with drop cloths, just in case.

The interior of the chimney may have oily soot that is best swept with a polypropylene brush.

A steel wire brush will leave scrape marks and the acidic soot will cause the bristles to fall off quickly. The plastic brush will provide better coverage as it makes contact with the interior of the chimney.

Your vacuum should be running the whole time and many sweeps will sweep from the top with the hose in the thimble of the masonry chimney. Make sure there are no other openings that are not covered. There should be a good seal around the hose so no soot can escape. If there is a factory-built chimney you can tape a paper bag around the base of the chimney with a small slot for the rod to enter the chimney. This will allow the soot to be captured in the bag and you to stay on the ground when sweeping the chimney.

This method has the additional advantage of allowing the sweep to make sure there is no soot floating around.

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I see red stains that look like rust running down the sides of my chimney.

What is that?

The stains you see are the result of a red dye. It is often associated with a poor draft and a rain cap that is cold. The dye differentiates between oil used as fuel in trucks and oil that is used for home heating. There is a different tax structure for the two. The staining is the result of the condensation of flue gases and could be an indication that the appliance is not burning efficiently.

If oil is a sooty mess and expensive, why do people use it?

Oil is a very dense fuel; a gallon of oil contains 140,000 BTUs (British Thermal Units) per gallon. This compares to 1,000 BTUs per cubic foot for natural gas or 2,500 BTUs for liquid propane.

Additional Resources: If you are interested in oil burning technology there are several places to get additional information. Bachrach has information available on their website. Wohler, Testo, and Backrach all have equipment for measuring exhaust gases for efficiency testing.

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NewNCSG Members

NCSG REGIONS REGION 1

NEW YORK Michael Richardson • MJ Richardson • Syracuse Connecticut Jon Nelson • Nelson Chimney Cleaning • Sandy Hook

REGION 2 NEW JERSEY

REGION 1 Connecticut, Vermont, Massachusetts, New York, Maine, Rhode Island, New Hampshire

Sarah DeRemer * Homestead Chimney, Inc. * Asbury PENNSYLVANIA Derrick Jackson • Precision Plus • Drexel Hill

REGION 3 GEORGIA Lance Blackford • Atlanta Fireplace Specialists • Atlanta

REGION 2 Delaware, District of Columbia, Maryland, New Jersey, Pennsylvania

WEST VIRGINIA

REGION 3

Annie Taylor • Chimney Swift • St Albans VIRGINIA Greg Prouty • Prouty’s Chimney Sweep Inc. • Leesburg

REGION 4 MISSOURI Mark Unterreiner ● Star Heating & Air Conditioning ● Columbia OHIO Patrick Archer • ARCO Roofing & Remodeling • Monroe

REGION 5

IOWA

Shawn Dacre • Des Moines Chimney Sweep • Des Moines

NCSG Charter Members Paul Bourque, Huntsville, AL

Dale Meisinger, N. Augusta, SC

Don Leavitt, San Diego, CA

Alan Hisey, St. Louis, MO

David Harris, Broken Arrow, OK

Eva B. Horton, Greenwich, CT

Dan Wheeler, Santa Rosa, CA

Harry Richart, Hasbrouck Heights, NJ

John Cline, Menlo Park, CA

22 SWEEPING NOVEMBER 14

Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, West Virginia

REGION 4 Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Missouri, Ohio

REGION 5 Arkansas, Colorado, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Minnesota, Nebraska, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Texas, Wisconsin

REGION 6 Alaska, Arizona, California, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, Washington, Wyoming

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•

NCSG Convention 2015 • February 18-21 • Lancaster, PA NCSG Member Rates

Until 12/10/14

12/11/141/22/15

After 1/22/15

Standard Rates

Primary $399 $449 $499 Spouse 199 249 299 1st Time Attendee 150 150 150 (Primary Registrant Only) 1st Additional 349 399 449 2nd Additional 299 349 399 3+ Additional 249 299 349 Single Day 179 179 179 Banquet Only 69 69 69 Child Banquet 5-12 39 39 39 Tradeshow Only 49 49 49 Senior Guild 100 100 100 Members Company _________________________________________ Address __________________________________________ City, State, Zip _____________________________________ Phone ___________________________________________ Email ____________________________________________ Check here to opt-out of emails from exhibitors

Until 12/10/14

12/11/141/22/15

After 1/22/15

Primary $499 $549 $599 Spouse 299 349 399 1st Time Attendee 150 150 150 (Primary Registrant Only) 1st Additional 449 499 549 2nd Additional 399 449 499 3+ Additional 349 399 449 Single Day 279 279 279 Banquet Only 89 89 89 Child Banquet 5-12 39 39 39 Tradeshow Only 79 79 79 Opening Night with The Sootprints - Additional registration required. $20/person includes concert with The Sootprints, games, DJ, and food at Tellus360 in Lancaster! A cash bar will also be available at the venue.

REGISTRANT INFORMATION Please write your name as you’d like it to appear on your badge.

How would you like to receive your convention information packet? Email Standard Mail Name _____________________________________________________________ Registrant Type ______________________________________________________ $ ___________________ Name _____________________________________________________________ Registrant Type ______________________________________________________ $ ___________________ Registration Total $ ___________________ Opening Night Tickets ($20/each) Qty: _______ Ticket Total $ ___________ 2015 Convention Patch ($3/each - Pickup on-site.) Qty: ________ Patch Total $ ___________

MAIL TO: National Chimney Sweep Guild 2155 Commercial Drive, Plainfield, IN 46168 FAX TO: (317) 837-5365 CALL: (317) 837-1500 REGISTER ONLINE at www.NCSG.org/convention

Office Use Only O2CR C2F AUTH__________ Org ID___________ Profile ID____________ Rec’d By__________ Date ____________

GRAND TOTAL $ ___________ PAYMENT INFORMATION Payment Method: □ Check # ___________ □ Visa □ MC □ AmEx Account # ________________________________________ Card Security Code ______________ Exp. __________ Name on Card ____________________________________ Signature ________________________________________ Refund policy: Prior to 12/10/14, 90%; 12/11/14-1/22/15, 75%. No refunds are available after 1/22/15.

OCTOBER 14 SWEEPING 25

CSIA Update NOVEMBER REPORT

www.CSIA.org

Integrated with inspectors CSIA continues to connect certified chimney sweeps and C-DET pros with home inspectors An estimated 20,000 home inspectors work in the United States, and when they gather for conventions, CSIA is there with them — meeting and greeting, and educating.

CSIA believes in supporting this key affiliated trade and its associated organizations, because we know CSIA can fill a crucial need for them that would otherwise go unmet.

The chimney sweep/home inspection connection is why we were in Las Vegas, Nevada for four days in October as an exhibitor with InspectionConference. It’s why we’ll also be at the National Association of Home Inspectors (NAHI) this month in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. And it’s why we’ll also be attending ASHI (American Society of Home Inspectors) in January in Philadelphia. (We exhibited with them in January in Nashville.) We recently taught three dozen folks with Indiana ASHI at CSIA’s Technology Center.

“There are a lot of organizations that appeal to CSIA and our enduring mission. They are in occupations or industries where qualified chimney sweeps are useful and beneficial, including insurance, Realty, firefighting, and venting related. But home inspectors are definitely at the top of the list,” said Mark A. Stoner, president of CSIA. CSIA is also deepening collaborations with like-minded organizations such as American Home Inspectors Training Institute (AHIT), International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (InterNACHI) and Kaplan Home Inspection Training, and we are producing original editorial content/advertising in their publications.

Simply put, in every city where we have a CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep, there should be a relationship with one or more home inspectors, Stoner said.

At the trade shows, CSIA is also conducting educational seminars. Steve Pietila, a CSIA certified chimney sweep, CSIA Board Member, and owner of American Chimney and Masonry in Portland, Oregon, taught a well-received

class to 30 inspectors during InspectionConference. John Pilger, another CSIA sweep and Board Member, will be teaching at ASHI. The presentations focus on common chimney concerns that inspectors might encounter. CSIA’s belief is that home inspectors can be better informed about the complex nature of chimneys. Then they will then do a more thorough job for their clients (be it Realtors or home-buyers.)

“Our mission at every show is to promote the recommendation of using a CSIA credentialed professional for service and inspections of chimneys, vents, and the appliances they serve,” said Pietila.

Our approach is to come armed with brochures, educational materials, and referral cards, so that inspectors that have not heard of us can find a CSIA sweep using our free zip-code locater. Our website, CSIA.org, has been a popular way for us to showcase our dual mission of industry education and homeowner resources.

The inspectors we’ve met include Steve Broussard of Ithaca, New York, who already was referring his clients to a CSIA sweep without even realizing it. He said he was glad to know he was working with the best. Josh Amodio of Priceless Inspections in Utica, New York, explained what drew him to CSIA’s booth in Vegas. “You spoke my language,” he told us.

Roy Summerville, owner of Appraise-It InspectIt Consultants of Colorado, said he’d take action. “I give my customers a list of clients to do the job. But they had to get their own chimney expert. Now that I’ve seen this (a list of sweeps in Aurora, Colorado on CSIA.org) and they are certified, I’ll add you to the list.”

—Tom Spalding

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PROMOTING CSIA.ORG/SEARCH: Steve Pietila, a Portland, Oregon-based CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep and a member of CSIA’s board of directors, talked to curious home inspectors at CSIA’s booth and in the classroom at InspectionConference in October in Las Vegas, Nevada. “Our mission is to promote the recommendation of using a CSIA credentialed professional,” he said.

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Kansas Reece V. Howell | Lamunyon |Hutchinson Oregon Brian Dawson | Dryer Tech Vent Cleaning | Oregon City Pennsylvania William McVean | Oliver Heating & Cooling |Morton Brent J Burdette | Oliver Heating & Cooling | Morton

Justin Viar | EE Wine/Crystal Clean Duct Service | Warrenton Michael Wine| EE Wine/Crystal Clean Duct Service | Warrenton Donald Regan | Top Hat Chimney Services | Springfield Canada Paul Hannah | The Duct Cleaning Specialists | Toronto Tyler Dear | Enviro Care Systems | Toronto

Virginia Valley Missouri David Grant | Star Heating & Air Conditioning | Columbia New Jersey Robert Davin | William J Guarini | Jersey City Matthew Hoser | Homestead Chimney | Asbury Steven Melms |William J Guarini | Jersey City Michael Pfeiffer | Four Seasons Chimney Sweep & Repair | Mt Holly New Mexico Nicholas Graham |Bailey’s Chimney Cleaning & Repair | El Prado Ohio Patrick Archer | ARCO Roofing & Remodeling | Monroe Jake Rhine | Chim-Cheroo Chimney Service |Greenwich Pennsylvania Anthony Anderson | Anderson’s Chimney Sweeps | New Cumberland Earl Ferguson | Anderson’s Chimney Sweeps | New Cumberland Matthew Holjes | Anderson’s Chimney Sweeps | New Cumberland Michael Iannece | Jamison Chimney services | Broomall ADVERTISEMENT

Derrick Jackson | Precision Plus | Philadelphia Kristen (Cookie) Kile | Gino C Barbati Chimney Sweep | Downingtown Virginia Kristopher Taylor | A & T Chimney Sweeps | Centreville Vermont James Dearmin | Newport Scott Dziadul | Black Magic Chimney Sweeps of Southern VT | Manchester Center John Herriman | Central Vermont Chimney Sweeping |Brandon Tina Kehoe |The Artful Sweep Chimney Service | Burlington Washington John Poisel | Jake’s Chimney Sweep | Newport West Virginia William J Ford | Chimney Swift | St. Albans

NOVEMBER REPORT CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps, Renewed with CEUs - Congrats!

Alabama Trent Simmons | Top Hat Chimney Sweeps | Opelika Indiana David A. Clift | Beck’s Chimney Sweep | Noblesville Kansas Mark Wohlin| Countryside Chimney Sweep | Topeka Louisiana Kevin Russell | New Buck Chimney Services | Frierson Michigan Bob Sciba| The Chimney Doctor LLC | Midland North Carolina Charlie Quaile | Chimneys Plus, Inc. | Pittsboro Pennsylvania Daniel Carter | Hearth & Stove Inc. | Philadelphia Donnie Farner | Your Chimney Sweep | Mechanicsburg Rhode Island April Costa | Island Chimney Services, LLC | Middletown (pictured) South Carolina Steven Lantry| Mid Carolina Chimney Service | Columbia Vermont Randy Hayes | Central Vermont Chimney Sweeping | Brandon Thomas Santopolo | Rutland Chimney Services, Inc. | Rutland

www.CSIA.org CSIA contributing white paper on after-market parts testing The Chimney Safety Institute of America, working in collaboration with the National Chimney Sweep Guild, believes consumer safety is both organizations’ No. 1 priority.

That is why both organizations are reviewing proposed changes to NFPA 211 standards regarding the replacement of original fireplace components with the use of aftermarket parts.

The changes being considered by the NFPA (National Fire Protection Association) 211 Committee potentially limit or restrict what replacement parts can be used by chimney industry companies hired by homeowners with fireplaces.

CSIA’s role, in part, has been to conduct an evaluation, or white paper, regarding these parts.

CSIA began the planning process of creating the white paper in 2013, and funding for it came from proceeds of Sweeps Week.

The white paper is being assembled by Eric Adair, P.E. of Adair Concepts & Solutions, LLC. Eric is also a Director on the Chimney Safety Institute of America board.

Eric Adair, P.E., Adair Concepts & Solutions, LLC of Sacramento, California. Eric is also a director on the CSIA Board.

ing tests included temperature measurement.

“It is impossible to test every possible combination of parts and every scenario, but we are seeking unbiased opinions from Intertek, which is doing testing throughout October,” stated Mark A. Stoner, president of CSIA. “After-market parts on existing fireplaces is common in the industry, and we have our pulse on the situation because we hear from the best chimney sweeps in the country on this topic.”

This picture was taken from Intertek’s report and shows some

“What the white paper is doing is helping to validate what has historically been anecdotal evidence — demonstrating through testing that the appropriate choice of after-market parts would not be a problem,” said Ashley Eldridge, CSIA Director of Education. He has assisted Adair in producing the white paper.

of the testing that was conducted.

As part of the white paper, CSIA contracted with Intertek, a Wisconsin-based independent testing lab.

CSIA has tasked Intertek to conduct an evaluation of replacement refractory panels, caps and grates in wood-burning fireplaces. OngoADVERTISEMENT

CSIA’s white paper will raise awareness and assist decision-makers so they are aware of the critical issues involving after-market parts.

CSIA 2015 Education Calendar As of 10/22/14 - Schedule subject to change. Please contact the Chimney Safety Institute of America prior to making travel arrangements.

CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep® Review & Exam January 16 | CSIA Technology Center, Plainfield, IN February 17 | Lancaster, PA [part of NCSG 2015 Convention] March 13 | CSIA Technology Center, Plainfield, IN May 15 | Scranton, PA

Chimney Physics April 16 – 17 | CSIA Technology Center August 10 – 11 | CSIA Technology Center Diagnosis and resolution of chimney performance issues, solving air pressure problems, identifying the symptoms of indoor air pollutants, determining combustion air requirements for vented appliances. CSIA CEUs: 3-T, 3-CS, 3-HS, 3-CL NFI CEUs: 4 E

June 5 | CSIA Technology Center, Plainfield, IN September 18 | Atlantic City, NJ

Installing and Troubleshooting Gas Hearth Appliances

October 16 | Albany, NY

July 20 – 24 | CSIA Technology Center

November 13 | CSIA Technology Center

Service and installation, including appliance standards, combustion requirements, pipe sizing and installation, troubleshooting, carbon monoxide testing and fuel conversion.

July 31 | CSIA Technology Center, Plainfield, IN

CSIA CEUs: 4-T, 4-CS, 4-HS, 4-CL NFI CEUs: 16 T In-person intensive review sessions help candidates prepare for the exams.

The review sessions are not a substitute for advanced study. CSIA CEUs: 1.50-T, 1.50-CS, 1.50-HS, 1.50-CL NFI CEUS: 6T

Inspection and Report Writing May 11 – 12 | CSIA Technology Center Oct. 15 – 16 | CSIA Technology Center Chimney inspections and evaluations, report writing including regional and environmental influences, effective photo documentation, digital organization and administrative procedures. CSIA CEUs: 4-T, 4-CS, 4-CL NFI CEUs: 12 T

National Chimney Sweep Training School March 23 – 28 | CSIA Technology Center June 22 – 27 | CSIA Technology Center

CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician® 1-Day Review /Exam January 16 | Independence, MO [hosted by Midwest Chimney Safety Council] February 17 | Lancaster, PA [part of NCSG 2015 Convention] In-person intensive review sessions help candidates prepare for the exam. CSIA CEUs: 1.25-T, 1.25-CS, 1-HS, .1-CL

CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician® 2-Day Workshop/ Exam July 29 – 30 | CSIA Technology Center November 5 – 6 | CSIA Technology Center In-person intensive review sessions, along with hands-on instruction, help candidates prepare for the exam. CSIA CEUs: 9-T, .5-CS, .5-HS, 1-CL

August 24 – 29 | CSIA Technology Center Sept. 28 – Oct. 3 | CSIA Technology Center Fundamentals of sweeping and inspection of chimney systems, equipment operation, health and safety considerations and step-by-step instruction in codes, clearances, standards and practices. CCS CEUs: 4-T, 4-CS, 4-CL, 4-HS NFI CEUs: 16 T

Online classes anytime access | csia.org Over 70 courses to choose from, with a bevy of CEUs. Curriculum is online, so you can sign up and start learning at the convenience of home or work!

Register today at www.CSIA.org or call us at (317) 837-5362.

History Project

BY CLAIRE RUTLEDGE

When Life Gives You Coal — Make Figurines

I

n our collection, we have a handful of coal figurines which were donated by Kevin Smith of Eurosweep. Given the obvious connection between coal and chimney sweeps, the majority of the figurines are of 19th century sweeps and apprentices. Many in our industry collect these unique objects.

While the craft originated in Europe, specifically in Germany and England as good-luck charms, the United States invented their version of this craft to combat local poverty.

These figurines, while they look carved from solid blocks of coal, are actually pressed coal dust. In the United States, coal figurines were created in coal mining states like West Virginia and Kentucky. According to the West Virginia Division of Culture and History: When U.S. President Lyndon B. Johnson declared a War on Poverty, West Virginia became a central front. The many antipoverty programs at that time included a concerted effort to support arts and crafts in the state. Under an economic umbrella provided by the U.S. Department of Commerce, Donald L. Page spearheaded the Arts and Crafts Technical Assistance Demonstration Project. It was in this official position that he got the idea of making arts and crafts from coal.

30 SWEEPING NOVEMBER 14

“It was during the Christmas of 1963,” Don recalls.

“Unemployment was a very serious problem in West Virginia and elsewhere. I had the responsibility of trying to do something about this for artists and craftsmen, to come up with something that was both appealing and had marketability.”

Alvin Powell, a “coal crafter,” explains that the process of making coal figurines does not employ the use of blocks of coal or coal soot, like many people suspect. Instead, a mixture of coal dust and resins are combined in a mold with a peroxide catalyst. Because of the additives, the objects actually turn out gray, but are painted black to appear just like a lump of coal.

Regardless of their origin or meaning, they are a unique addition to anyone’s chimney sweep collection.

Battlo, Jean. “Coal Art: The Other West Virginia Coal Industry.” Accessed Oct. 15, 2014. <http://www.wvculture.org/goldenseal/winter08/coalart. html Coal Art>.

Powell, Alvin. “COAL IS BACK AND BEING EXPORTED FROM McCREARY COUNTY.” Accessed Oct. 15, 2014. < http://www. kycoalcrafters.com/press_release_7.html>.

Figurines donated by Kevin Smith of Eurosweep, in England

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Dates & Events Educational Dates & Events posts from NCSG. These posts from NCSG serve as the single outlet for educational event notices for the NCSG discussion list.

The only limitation for NCSG Dates & Events listings is that the event must be considered educational or informative for the industry (sales events and open houses will not be listed). Please email those to me privately at ssichting@ncsg.org for inclusion in these posts, online at www.NCSG.org/dates and in Sweeping magazine.

The following Educational Dates & Events listings have been officially submitted to the NCSG office. This post includes upcoming events four months out. Please check with the host organization listed below prior to making travel commitments November 3 – 9, 2014 CSIA (online) – Chimney Physics – CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review – CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician Review – CSIA eLearning – Health & Safety Multi-User Courses – Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information, please call (317) 837-5362 or visit www.CSIA.org November 6 – 7, 2014 CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician® Review & Exams CSIA Technology Center — Plainfield, IN For more information, please call (317) 837-5362 or visit www.CSIA.org November 10 – 16, 2014 CSIA (online) – Chimney Physics – CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review – CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician Review – CSIA eLearning – Health & Safety Multi-User Courses – Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information, please call (317) 837-5362 or visit www.CSIA.org November 14, 2014 CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep® Review & Exams CSIA Technology Center For more information, please call (317) 837-5362 or visit www.CSIA.org November 17 – 23, 2014 CSIA (online) – Chimney Physics – CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review – CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician Review – CSIA eLearning – Health & Safety Multi-User Courses – Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information, please call (317) 837-5362 or visit www.CSIA.org November 24 – 30, 2014 CSIA (online) – Chimney Physics – CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review – CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician Review – CSIA eLearning – Health & Safety Multi-User Courses – Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information, please call (317) 837-5362 or visit www.CSIA.org

32 SWEEPING NOVEMBER 14

December 1 – 7, 2014 CSIA (online) – Chimney Physics – CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review – CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician Review – CSIA eLearning – Health & Safety Multi-User Courses – Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information, please call (317) 837-5362 or visit www.CSIA.org December 8 – 14, 2014 CSIA (online) – Chimney Physics – CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review – CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician Review – CSIA eLearning – Health & Safety Multi-User Courses – Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information, please call (317) 837-5362 or visit www.CSIA.org December 15 – 21, 2014 CSIA (online) – Chimney Physics – CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review – CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician Review – CSIA eLearning – Health & Safety Multi-User Courses – Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information, please call (317) 837-5362 or visit www.CSIA.org December 22 – 28, 2014 CSIA (online) – Chimney Physics – CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review – CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician Review – CSIA eLearning – Health & Safety Multi-User Courses – Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information, please call (317) 837-5362 or visit www.CSIA.org December 29, 2014 – January 4, 2015 CSIA (online) – Chimney Physics – CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review – CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician Review – CSIA eLearning – Health & Safety Multi-User Courses – Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information, please call (317) 837-5362 or visit www.CSIA.org January 5 – 11, 2015 CSIA (online) – Chimney Physics – CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review – CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician Review – CSIA eLearning – Health & Safety Multi-User Courses – Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information, please call (317) 837-5362 or visit www.CSIA.org January 12 – 18, 2015 CSIA (online) – Chimney Physics – CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review – CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician Review – CSIA eLearning – Health & Safety Multi-User Courses – Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information, please call (317) 837-5362 or visit www.CSIA.org

January 16, 2015 CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep® Review & Exams CSIA Technology Center For more information, please call (317) 837-5362 or visit www.CSIA.org January 16, 2015 CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician® Review & Exams Hosted by Midwest Chimney Safety Council – Independence, MO For more information, please call (317) 837-5362 or visit www.CSIA.org January 17 – 18, 2014 Midwest Chimney Safety Council Education Meeting.

OSHA regulations, Avoiding Stress in the Workplace, and mid-year meeting For more information, please visit www.mcsc-net.org January 19 – 25, 2015 CSIA (online) – Chimney Physics – CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review – CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician Review – CSIA eLearning – Health & Safety Multi-User Courses – Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information, please call (317) 837-5362 or visit www.CSIA.org January 26, 2015 – February 1, 2015 CSIA (online) – Chimney Physics – CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review – CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician Review – CSIA eLearning – Health & Safety Multi-User Courses – Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information, please call (317) 837-5362 or visit www.CSIA.org February 2 – 8, 2015 CSIA (online) – Chimney Physics – CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review – CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician Review – CSIA eLearning – Health & Safety Multi-User Courses – Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information, please call (317) 837-5362 or visit www.CSIA.org February 9 – 15, 2015 CSIA (online) – Chimney Physics – CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review – CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician Review – CSIA eLearning – Health & Safety Multi-User Courses – Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information, please call (317) 837-5362 or visit www.CSIA.org February 17, 2015 CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep® Review & Exams Lancaster Marriott at Penn Square (NCSG Convention 2015) Lancaster, PA For more information, please call (317) 837-5362 or visit www.CSIA.org

February 16 – 28, 2015 No CSIA Online Education March 2 – 8, 2015 CSIA (online) – Chimney Physics – CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review – CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician Review – CSIA eLearning – Health & Safety Multi-User Courses – Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information, please call (317) 837-5362 or visit www.CSIA.org March 9 – 15, 2015, 2014 CSIA (online) – Chimney Physics – CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review – CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician Review – CSIA eLearning – Health & Safety Multi-User Courses – Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information, please call (317) 837-5362 or visit www.CSIA.org March 13, 2015 CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep® Review & Exams CSIA Technology Center For more information, please call (317) 837-5362 or visit www.CSIA.org March 16 – 22, 2015 2014 CSIA (online) – Chimney Physics – CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review – CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician Review – CSIA eLearning – Health & Safety Multi-User Courses – Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information, please call (317) 837-5362 or visit www.CSIA.org March 23 – 28, 2015 CSIA National Chimney Sweep Training School CSIA Technology Center– Plainfield, IN For more information, please call (317) 837-5362 or visit www.CSIA.org March 23 – 29, 2015 CSIA (online) – Chimney Physics – CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review – CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician Review – CSIA eLearning – Health & Safety Multi-User Courses – Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information, please call (317) 837-5362 or visit www.CSIA.org March 30 – April 5, 2015 CSIA (online) – Chimney Physics – CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep Review – CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician Review – CSIA eLearning – Health & Safety Multi-User Courses – Lining Masonry Chimneys with Stainless Steel For more information, please call (317) 837-5362 or visit www.CSIA.org

February 17, 2015 CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technicians® Review & Exams Lancaster Marriott at Penn Square (NCSG Convention 2015) Lancaster, PA For more information, please call (317) 837-5362 or visit www.CSIA.org

NOVEMBER 14 SWEEPING 33

BY FRANCES KELLY, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

October

A

s the cool crisp air lingers more and more each day, I realize how lucky I am to work someplace with an amazing fireplace. The cold never seems so bad when you arrive to find a cozy fire to greet you.

The Tech Center continues to host visitors. From the cat in the field to prominent TV hosts, we welcome them all.

Ashley and Tom recently spent time with Tracy Fomer, host of Indy Style, filming the TV show HomeSmarts with Lou Manfredini. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be sure to keep you posted regarding air time so we can watch certified chimney sweeps being showcased.

The next time you call the Tech Center, be sure to visualize Saraâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s smiling face. On this particular day, Sara was busy sending out new member packets.

See you soon!

34 SWEEPING NOVEMBER 14

Around the Tech Center

Darwin Awards The lady just bought the house and part of the purchase agreement was to have the liners fixed. The home inspector said the top two liners were cracked and needed to be replaced. So, the seller hired someone to come out and fix it. They replaced the top two liners, but rather than putting mortar in there…

Hey, I got an idea…lets use this spray foam…works awesome. Inspecting her chimneys, “All” of the liners in both the upper and lower units are vertically fractured…what a mess. This is a pretty common thing here though with buyers and sellers--we deal with it 20 times a week. However, this is the first time I’ve seen “Foam” mortar joints.

Steven Cody, Have you snapped a photo of a peculiar chimney in your area that made you shake your head in disbelief?

The Chimney Pro’s, Woodbury, MN

Send it to editor Darcy Marlett at dmarlett@ncsg.org. for publication in Sweeping. Or, mail it to NCSG, 2155 Commercial Drive, Plainfield, IN 46168.

Include a few words about the scene and location.

Gotta chimney question? Sizing? Codes? Call Royal Edwards!

Make Royal your tech department. CALL NOW (813) 982-0219 for on-call tech support.

Continuing Education special bonus – Ask how you can get the Friday-morning e-Blast for FREE. CALL NOW (813) 982-0219

Classifieds CLASSIFIED ADS FREE FOR NCSG MEMBERS Members can run one 35-word classified free each year! Regular classified ads are $2/word or $1/ word for NCSG members. Classified ads are noncommissionable and must be pre-paid. To place a classified ad, please contact Sara Sichting at ssitchting@ncsg.org or 317-837-1500.

GasVent Software for Sizing Chimneys only $195. Call 1-800-648-9523 for more info and visit www.elitesoft.com to download a free trial version.

For Sale: 34 Year Old, 7 figure turn-key business, $695K with 6 trucks Commercial Building with rentals $695K on a busy street. Employees and tons of equipment.

Runs smoothly without too much attention .

Paid Ads. Quick Payback. Heart Attack. Great Opportunity.

Call Fred Tarantino – (516) 338-2727

NOVEMBER 14 SWEEPING 35

Humor

Cartoon gladly donated by Midtown Sweeps.

Display Ad Index Page # 12

Advertiser Ahrens Chimney Technique

Phone 800-582-1392

Email or Website Address ahrenschimney@qwestoffice.net

17 Copperfield

800-247-3305

www.copperfield.com

6

800-545-6607

www.firesafeinc.com

15 ICP

508-695-7000

www.chimneycaps.com

14

Lindemann Chimney Company

800-722-7230

www.lindemannchimney.com

31

Gelco, Lyemance, Lock-Top

800-247-3305

www.gllchimneyproducts.com

5

National Chimney

800-897-8481

www.nationalchimney.com

7

Olympia Chimney Supply

800-569-1425

www.olympiachimney.com

Firesafe Industries, Inc.

20 Chimfex

800-637-7807 www.chimfex.com

11

Sand Hill Wholesale

800-258-5496

www.sandhillwholesale.com

4

SaverSystems, Inc

800-860-6327

www.saversystems.com

3 Smoktite

866-439-0069

www.smoktite.com

19

866-880-3473

www.sweepsamerica.com

23 Ventech

866-439-0069

www.ventechindustries.com

21 Wöhler

978-750-9876

www.wohlerusa.com

®

Sweeps America

36 SWEEPING NOVEMBER 14

National Chimney Sweep Guild 2155 Commercial Drive Plainfield, IN 46168

1408