What Is a Master Hearth Professional?

If you have looked over our page about the services we offer for fireplaces, you may have noticed that we have a Master Hearth Professional on our staff who can answer questions and help you choose the right style and model of fireplace for your home. That sounds very official—and it is—but perhaps you’re curious about what a Master Hearth Professional is and why having one on staff gives Ambassador Fireplaces an advantage in offering excellent fireplace services.

Master Hearth Professionals: NFI-Certified Specialists

As with any specialized service, working on fireplaces requires expert knowledge and training. The technical training required for hearths of any kind is extensive, since it involves different forms of fuel and familiarity with venting systems and hearth construction. The National Fireplace Institute® (NFI) is the professional certification division of the Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Education Foundation (HPBEF), a non-profit educational organization. According to the NFI’s website, the group aims to “increase public safety by establishing meaningful credentials for professionals involved in planning and installing residential hearth appliances and venting systems.”

As of 2002, the NFI certifies fireplace installers in three categories: gas specialist, woodburning specialist, and pellet specialist. A fireplace specialist who receives certification in all three categories receives additional certification as a Master Hearth Professional. According to the NFI, “These individuals have reached the highest level of certification in the hearth industry.”

A Master Hearth Professional knows all the different forms of fuel that can burn in a fireplace and has skill in the selection of the proper fuel, the assurance of safe venting, the correct materials to protect walls and floors, and the necessary compliances with code regulations. In short, you won’t find anyone more qualified to help you select a fireplace for you home and help with its installation.

The Ambassador Fireplaces Advantage

Why is it so important that Ambassador Fireplaces have a Master Hearth Specialists on staff? Because at Ambassador Fireplaces we offer a large range of fireplaces and stoves. Gas log inserts, freestanding wood and pellet stoves, electric inserts… this variety requires a technician who is knowledgeable in all fields of fireplace installation and maintenance. We’re proud that for your fireplace we have a certified Master Hearth Specialist to give you the advice you need to make the best choice for your home.