Fireplace smokes on windy days is the topic for this article. It is one of the most valued features in our homes. And all too often, the fireplace is labeled “non-working” and sits unused, because the homeowner doesn’t know what to do about a fireplace smoking problem. Here I will show how most smoking problems […]
Smoking Fireplaces Part 4: Fireplace Smokes on Windy Days Read More »
Here are some things you can check. (But this doesn’t take the place of having the chimney checked by a professional.) Chimney tips for homeowners checklist Condition of exterior chimney Chimney Cap: is there one? Leaks/Stains Cleanout doors/base of flue Visual check of flues Condition of appliances & pipes Condition of exterior chimney
If you notice fireplace odors while you are using the fireplace, then you almost certainly have a smoking problem. See the article “Smoking Fireplaces” for details on identifying and correcting fireplace smoking problems. As a general rule, in any case of fireplace odors, a chimney cleaning is in order if you haven’t had it done recently (and certainly, if
Water leaking into the fireplace Water should not leak into your fireplace. If it does, first be sure you have a chimney cap to keep water from running freely down the flue. If you have a cap, the problem might be more serious. Cracks or holes in the chimney crown (the very top) or in other areas could
Animals in the Fireplace Flue can be dangerous! Raccoons, squirrels, birds, bats, and other animals can get into chimneys if there is no cap to keep them out. These animals can bring fleas and ticks into your home, as well as rabies, worms, and other diseases. So animals in the chimney pose a serious health
Wood stove smokes on windy days: Some stoves seem to work just fine except when it is wet out. If this seems to be the case, pay close attention to the weather when you have smoking problems. It is easy to confuse wind-related problems with rain-related problems. If it does appear to be the wetness
There are several types of chimney odors that could detract from your enjoyment of the wood stove. Creosote has a very strong, acrid odor, generally much worse in wet weather or in the summertime when the chimney is less effective in drawing the odor up the chimney. The first step is to have the chimney and
If you hear animals in your chimney or if you smell something coming from your chimney that you suspect is from animals (dead or alive), call your chimney professional. Don’t try to remove animals from the chimney yourself. Squirrels, raccoons, and birds often nest in chimneys or accidentally fall into the flue. Since these animals
An annual safety inspection for chimney should be performed on every fireplace before its first fire of the year. Call a trained chimney professional who knows all the components of a chimney and fireplace to perform a visual inspection. A visual inspection will look for any deterioration that has happened since last burning a fire. Noticeable cracking of