What is WETT Inc.?

Wood Energy Technology Transfer Inc. (WETT Inc.) is a non-profit training and educational association. Through professional training and public education, WETT Inc. promotes the safe and efficient use of wood-burning systems in Canada.

In carrying out its mandate to promote safety and efficiency effectiveness, WETT Inc. maintains the Wood Energy Technical Training Program and acts as the national registrar for certified professionals. The wood-burning industry, insurance companies, municipal building inspectors, fire officials and government agencies recognize WETT training and certification.

Who are WETT-Trained Professionals?

To become a WETT-Trained professional requires the completion of one of WETT Inc.'s educational streams. Training consists of a minimum of four days of formal training followed by written examinations. Before WETT certificates are issued, a minimum of 80 weeks of related field experience must be declared. Some types of certified professionals include woodburning appliance installers and inspectors, hearth retail representatives, insurance inspectors, fire safety professionals, chimney sweeps and municipal inspectors.

What does it mean to be WETT Certified?

To be certified by WETT Inc. means that the professional has completed the necessary training programs and has declared 80 weeks of related field experience. Once certified, the professional agrees to abide by WETT Inc.'s strict Code of Ethics. To maintain certification, certification holders must complete continuing education requirements and renew their membership annually.

What type of WETT-Trained Professional do I need?

WETT training consists of several educational streams, including inspectors, technicians, advisors and chimney sweeps. To determine what type of WETT-trained professional you need, consider the following guidelines:

• Do you need a basic visual inspection such as for insurance or pre-purchase of a home that is equipped with a wood burning appliance or fireplace? A basic visual inspection is a general overview of the readily accessible parts of a woodburning system to determine if the system meets current regulations. If this description fits your needs, any WETT-Certified member is trained to perform a basic visual inspection.

• If you require a more intensive inspection or an evaluation to determine system integrity, contact members listed as WETT-Certified technicians or sweeps.

• If your wood-burning system is not functioning properly, is damaged or is causing concerns such as smoke spillage, rapid creosote accumulation, etc. you should contact a WETT-Certified technician or sweep.

Why should I use a WETT-Trained Professional?

To have full assurance that your wood-burning appliance is installed safely and in accordance with building and fire code requirements, a WETT-trained professional should be consulted. Safety is paramount, and wood-burning appliances are manufactured to work safely and efficiently when they are installed, used and maintained properly. Many insurance companies in Canada require an inspection by a WETT-trained professional before issuing insurance. In addition, many retailers will insist that when wood-burning appliances are sold they must be professionally installed (WETT Certified).