I do not clean my own chimney. I put off calling the sweep until now and they say I'll have to wait at least 2 weeks for an appointment. I figured I'd have a look up the pipe and see for myself how it looks. I had the chimney cleaned right before I installed the Fireview last year. After one season and about 3.75 cords all that I can see on the pipe is a light dusting of soft ash that falls off with the slightest touch. It is not sticky or junkie. I shined my flashlight all the way up and the pipe looks the same right to the cap. What do you all think? Can I stretch it another year? The Frieview seems to burn super clean and my wood is much better seasoned than it was last year. If I do make an appointment a couple weeks out, I may have to shut down the stove in cooler weather for the sweep which would mean 24 hours without my fee wood heat. I guess next year I'll call the sweep in May.