Your fireplace is a great source of ambiance and heat during those chilly winter nights, but have you ever noticed a strange odor coming from your fireplace? Perhaps this smell occurs right after burning a fire or only after rainy days. Mercer County Chimney would like to help you discover what could be causing that unpleasant odor and offer solutions to help you get rid of it.
Common Causes of Fireplace Odors
Animals And Debris
Especially during the winter, animals may see your warm and secluded chimney as a great place to set up camp. Unfortunately, these little critters often get stuck in your chimney or build their nests which can lead to an obstruction in the flue. These unwanted visitors can leave behind some smelly surprises or, in worse cases, never make it out of the chimney at all. Along with animals, debris such as sticks and leaves can make their way into your chimney obstructing the smokes pathway out of the chimney forcing it back out of your fireplace and into your home.Creosote Build Up
Another common cause of the odor in your fireplace could be a build up of creosote which is a byproduct of the smoke from your fire. Creosote forms into a sticky, tar-like substance that can create a lingering smokey scent as well as pose serious fire risks if your chimney is not regularly cleaned by a professional.Moisture In Your Chimney
Water is known to be a chimney’s number one enemy for several reasons, one of these reasons being the mold and mildew it can create if it makes its way inside of your chimney. The heat and moisture create a perfect breeding ground for mold to grow in your chimney sending a musty scent straight into your home.Solutions For A Smelly Chimney
Have Your Chimney Swept Regularly
Keeping up with recommended chimney maintenance can work wonders for solving and avoiding fireplace odors. Regular cleanings performed by a professional will remove creosote and debris ensuring a clear chimney flue and a safer fireplace.Install A Chimney Cap
A chimney caps main function is to prevent water, debris, and animals from entering your chimney. If you suspect that your chimney cap is damaged or missing it is imperative that you have a proper cap installed in order to protect your chimney from obstructions or damage.
