Is Santa Claus leaving a new fireplace under your tree this holiday season? If so, you should know how important it is to have this appliance professionally installed. Although you may feel that you will be saving money by installing your new fireplace yourself, you could be putting yourself, your family, and your home at risk by taking this job into your own hands. For safety reasons, you should always consult with a fireplace professional, especially one who has been certified by the National Fireplace Institute (NFI). The technicians at Ashbusters have gone through this certification process, which means you can trust us to safely install your new hearth appliance. We would like to tell you more about the NFI and why its certification means your fireplace is in good hands.
What is the NFI?
With a main objective of increasing public safety, the National Fireplace Institute (NFI) was founded in 2002 as the division of professional certification of the educational foundation of the Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association (HBPA). As part of the NFI certification process, standards and credentials have been set for fireplace professionals across the country.
What types of certification are available from the NFI?
Fireplace planners and installers have the option of becoming NFI certified in three fuel types: Wood-Burning, Gas, and Pellet. If professionals choose to receive all three certifications, they are eligible to become Master Hearth Professionals, which is the highest possible certification possible in the hearth industry.
How does one receive NFI certification?
In order to become certified, one must pass a multiple-choice exam in the specialty of his or her choice. These exams have been based upon an analysis of the essential knowledge needed to properly plan and install hearth products. This knowledge include concepts like combustion, safety guidelines, regulations, and venting requirements.
What other certifications are held by the technicians at Ashbusters?
Along with our NFI certifications, our technicians are also certified by the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) as chimney sweeps and as dryer vent technicians. We take our training seriously and keep up with changes to safety practices in the chimney industry. We are also proud members of CVC Coaching to consult and train independent retailers and service provider professionals across the country.
If you are updating your fireplace this winter, contact us at Ashbusters for professional help with the planning and installation. You can trust our NFI-certified chimney professionals to properly and safely take care of your new fireplace appliance.