The Hearth Design Specialist certification is designed to show consumers that the sales personnel understand the technical information they need to properly plan their installation. Based on the Hearth Design Specialist Reference Manual, First Edition which was published in the fall of 2017, this certification covers the technical knowledge on combustion, heat transfer, safety and venting for woodburning, and gas and pellet hearth appliances. Other topics include an introduction to codes, standards and regulations, fuel characteristics, and appliance requirements. All major hearth appliances are covered including fireplaces, gas log sets, fireplace inserts, and free-standing stoves.