Overtime, fireplaces and chimneys can start to smell as they are routinely exposed to toxic and smelly gases emitted from hot, raging fires. While most chimneys smell because of the creosote buildup— the harmful by-product of fires that can grow to several inches thick and eventually catch fire — there are other sources of odor, including animals and rotting leaves.
There are several ways to contain your chimney’s stench, including routine cleaning and reducing negative air pressure.
Reducing Negative Air Pressure
Negative air pressure is one way odors from your chimney enter your home. Negative air pressure is caused by changes to your home that require more air to enter the house through a source like an open fireplace. Pressure inside the home is often affected by the installation of a new bathroom exhaust fan, new windows or a new furnace.
To help reduce negative air pressure and odors coming from the fireplace:
– Ensure there is a tight seal on your glass fireplace doors and close them, especially when the fireplace is not in use. That will help keep odors out of your home.
– Close the damper inside your chimney. But keep in mind that damper seals can deteriorate over time, allowing some air into the home. Check the damper to make sure there is a tight seal.
– Install a damper on to the top of the chimney that can be opened and closed by a chain. When your fireplace is not in use, close the damper.
Keep Your Chimney Clean
Another way to make sure your chimney and fireplace don’t emit bad odors, is to have a chimney cleaning service like MCP Chimney & Masonry clean (and inspect) your fireplace and chimney annually. MCP Chimney & Masonry can keep your chimney smelling clean or not at all!
We can remove any excess creosote that causes odors as well as other sources of smells. We also can recommend other products — like dampers and more — to reduce smelly nuisances in the future.
For more information on how we can help eliminate any odors coming from your chimney. Contact us today.
