Many things can go wrong with your chimney system over the year. However, one common annoyance is especially noticeable as winter turns to spring. When you stop using your chimney and fireplace, you may begin to smell foul odors in your home. Consequently, they’re most likely coming from your chimney.
Negative pressure can cause chimney odors in even a well-maintained chimney. The air inside the chimney will not rise out the flue because there is no fire below to push the air up and out. A good way to correct negative pressure is to close the damper on your chimney when you stop using your fireplace for the year. An energy-saving damper closes the chimney completely with a tight seal that allows no air flow. This is a good way to close out your chimney for the year, after a sweep and inspection.
Common Chimney Odors
- Barbecue/Smokey
This may have you checking your grill, your stove, and microwave for the source, but it’s coming from your chimney! This type of odor is caused from a dirty chimney. Without the draft from a fire to push the air (and odors) up and out of the chimney, the smells of creosote and soot can settle into your house.
Pro Tip: Schedule a chimney sweep before closing out your chimney or the off-season to avoid stinky odors. - Mildew/Moldy
This type of smell not only means you have a dirty chimney. It may also indicate a bigger problem. If your chimney smells like mildew or mold, you most likely have a leak that needs to be addressed. This mildew-like smell can also occur when chimney soot and creosote mingles with summer humidity. Pro Tip: Schedule your annual chimney inspection in the spring. This ensures your chimney can withstand spring showers and necessary repairs can be made before fall and burning season returns. - Decomposition/Rot
This foul odor can mean there is a dead and decomposing critter in your chimney flue. Strong odors like this should be addressed immediately, as carcasses can release toxic gases that affect your family. This same type of odor can be caused from animal droppings left in the chimney, as well as leaves and other plant debris as they age and decompose. Pro Tip: Avoid unwelcome guests in your chimney by having a chimney cap installed by a professional, and have it inspected annually.
Rely On Us
The last thing you want when you’re finished with all of your spring cleaning is foul odors to ruin your day. Instead of searching high and low for the source, check the chimney first. Afterwards, call a certified chimney sweep to assess the situation. At Newbuck Chimney Services we see stinky chimneys often. We clean, inspect, and repair them to avoid re-occurrence. You can call Newbuck today and discuss your chimney odors with an expert. Call us today or request an appointment online!