I'd say overall, the information is good and accurate... there are some minor points that are embelished a bit but, then again, that's the point of journalism.

Over the last 10 years or so I've owned several differnet wood burning stoves, two pellet stoves, a gas insert in a masonry fireplace and a couple regular wood burning fireplaces.

The thing the article mentions that is worth repeating over and over is that regular cleaning is absolutely crucial. On inspections it amazes me how many years people will go without even thinking of having the chimney or flue cleaned.

The creosote can all be flammable and lead to a fire but it's really bad when it gets shiny and glossy looking. A chimney sweep once told me this was called 'stage 3' creosote.

The article is in line with all the things I've ever heard about what causes build-up: burning wet wood, poor air flow - really, anything that allows the smoke to cool too much inside the flue.

From an inspection standpoint you can't really see the inside of the flue but in most cases there will be signs of neglect visible from the top or bottom (or usually both).

I have brushes and do my own cleaning every year (two or three times on the pellet stove due to ash build-up). Since we don't light fires and can't see inside of flues at inspections I'll usually coach my people pretty hard to have things cleaned and checked out unless the seller can provide proof it was done recently.

One point I disagree with the article.... I don't worry a bit as I sit by my fire. I know everything is just fine.....