Fireplace and Chimney Safety: What You Need to Know

As simple as a fireplace and chimney system looks, there are a lot of ways for trouble to occur during use and even when it’s not being used. Mercer County Chimney Services of Hamilton, NJ, would like to share some fireplace and chimney safety tips that cover what to watch for and how to address any problems you spot.

Chimney fires

Fires in chimneys are one of the most serious problems, and you want to do all that you can to prevent them. The majority of chimney fires start when built-up creosote in the flue ignites. Creosote forms when smoke condenses, so the best thing for you to do is to create as little smoke as possible with your fires. You can do this by:

• Burning only dry (seasoned) firewood.
• Opting for hardwoods, such as maple and oak, and avoiding juniper, redwood and other softwoods.
• Making sure there’s enough air moving into the firebox to burn the logs thoroughly.
• Never burning anything except firewood in the fireplace.
• Scheduling annual chimney sweeping with a reputable chimney service company to remove creosote from the flue.

Signs of a chimney fire include odd popping and tapping sounds, a deep rumbling like from a train, and excess dark smoke coming from either end of the chimney. If you think you’re having a chimney fire, evacuate the house and call 911. Do not attempt to put out a chimney fire on your own.

Chimney and fireplace issues to watch for

The Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) has compiled a list of key things to watch for that could indicate trouble within the fireplace and chimney system. Here’s a recap.

Rust in the firebox or on the chimney masonry

The chimney cap, damper or other metal components may be covered with rust.

White stains on the masonry

This is called “efflorescence,” and it means the bricks are absorbing water.

Cracked or loose bricks and crumbling mortar

Could be caused by water intrusion and other events.

Cracks in the concrete chimney crown

Old age and poor-quality crown material are common causes.

Chunks of a clay tile chimney liner in the firebox

The liner may be deteriorating, making it unsafe to use the fireplace.

Water in the firebox or dampness on the walls or ceiling near the fireplace

There’s a water leak somewhere in the system.

Damage to the chimney cap, flue cover, chase top or chimney flashing

Hail, lightning, fierce winds and other events can cause this damage.

Smoke backing up into your room

Could mean that the flue is obstructed by debris or creosote.

A damper that’s squeaky or hard to operate

Rust (from a leak somewhere) or old age are common reasons for this.

Offensive odors coming from the chimney through the fireplace

Excess creosote and soot, the nests of small animals, and dead small animals can create odors.

Chimney inspection and repair

A qualified chimney technician can inspect your system, determine what’s happening and why it’s happening, and then make the needed repairs. The CSIA and all other fire safety agencies recommend annual chimney and fireplace inspections so you can detect early signs of trouble and have them resolved before dangerous situations occur.

The best way to keep your chimney and fireplace safe

Mercer County Chimney Services provides certified chimney sweeping, licensed chimney inspections and all types of chimney repair and component-replacement work. We know how to keep your chimney and fireplace working as they were intended. Give us a call or use our contact form to get in touch.