Chimney Sweep

The main job of a chimney sweep professional is using their expertise to help prevent accidents and fires related to wood stoves, gas heating systems, fireplaces, coal heating systems, oil-heating systems by servicing and maintaining chimneys. Many chimney sweeps supply full-service to their customers with diagnosis and documentation, chimney cleaning, animal control, masonry work and other necessary services. Not all states or countries require a chimney sweep to obtain a license but it is best to as it is important that chimney sweeps receive certification and the education to keep up with the changing home styles, fire codes and other important information.
An experienced chimney sweep has expert knowledge of properly installing flexible stainless steel liners, flue systems and terminations along with safe operation and the necessary maintenance of appliances and chimneys. They clean chimneys and flues for cooking appliances and heating systems, to prevent chimney fires and dangerous fumes emissions.
A typical chimney-cleaning job starts with a chimney sweep bringing his or her equipment to the job site. They remove all the debris and soot by inserting a brush, which pushes this through the chimney and then cleans up the soot with a vacuum. Many chimney sweeps own their own businesses, work for independent companies or private firms. They need to be in good physical shape as the job involves a lot of physical labor. It is not a good career choice for anyone that does not like to get dirty or dusty although most chimney sweeps wear facemasks and protective clothing.
Common work activities include:
- Meeting with clients to assess their needs for chimney cleaning, upgrades or compliance with local fire and safety codes.
- Using various types of equipment including brooms, high powered vacuums and cleaning extensions to remove soot and debris from the inside of an existing chimney.
- Installing new chimney systems including pipes, vents, flues and safe emission systems.
- Advertising services, networking with landowners, builders, fire inspectors and other professionals that could provide referrals.
- Researching and keeping up to date on fire safety regulations with regards to chimneys.
- Billing and collecting for services rendered, setting scheduled maintenance appointments and handling any bills payable.
Top Online College Degree Programs
![]() |
Kaplan University - Associate's, Bachelor's, & Master's Degrees. Kaplan University has a wide range of programs available for individuals who want to make a career change or improve their job prospects. As a leader in online education, Kaplan delivers innovative, relevant, and convenient education.
|
![]() |
Ashford University - Associate's, Bachelor's, & Master's Degrees. Ashford University aims to make education accessible and affordable for every kind of student. Students can enhance their career opportunities without sacrificing commitments to work, family, or the military.
|
![]() |
University of Phoenix - Associate's, Bachelor's, Master's & Doctorate Degrees. University of Phoenix is an outstanding university with programs offered both online and on campus. Phoenix is committed to helping students develop intellectually and personally in order to reach their career goals.
|
![]() |
Liberty University - Associate's, Bachelor's, & Master's Degrees. Liberty University is an evangelical school that offers programs online and on campus. Individuals who want to change career fields or advance in their current field will be able to obtain their degree in a flexible and affordable manner at Liberty.
|
![]() |
American InterContinental University Online - Associate's, Bachelor's, & Master's Degrees. AIU is a career-oriented education that prepares students to take on today's fastest-growing jobs. With students all over the world, AIU is able to cater to the individual needs and career goals of every type of student.
|
![]() |
DeVry University - Associate's, Bachelor's, & Master's Degrees. DeVry University provides students with a practical, hands-on education from instructors who are accomplished in their respective field. DeVry has programs for students on campus and online so students can get their degree in an affordable, flexible way.
|
![]() |
Everest University - Associate's, Bachelor's, & Master's Degrees. Everest University designs degree programs for today's fastest-growing job markets. For this reason, Everest graduates are well-trained and well-prepared to succeed in their respective fields.
|
![]() |
Westwood College - Associate's & Bachelor's Degrees. Westwood College is a career-oriented college that prepares students to meet the needs of today's fast-changing job market. Students can advance or change their career without putting the rest of their lives on hold.
|








