A leaking chimney can lead to issues, including structural damage and mold growth. However, identifying the leak’s source can be tricky. In this post, we’ll tell you why chimney leaks are so dangerous and what you can do to prevent them.

Common Causes of Chimney Leaks

Chimney leaks happen for various reasons, but here are the most common.

Damaged or Missing Cap

Chimney caps sit atop the chimney and prevent rain, snow, and debris from entering. Water can easily get into the flue if the cap is damaged or missing, leading to cracks and water damage.

Cracked or Worn-Out Crown

The chimney crown is a cement or mortar piece at the top of the chimney, and it’s a barrier that guides water away from the chimney. However, because it’s made from cement or mortar, it’s susceptible to moisture, just like the chimney’s bricks. Once water gets in, it can freeze, leading to cracks and deterioration.

Faulty or Deteriorating Flashing

Flashing is the metal material installed where the chimney meets the roof. It prevents moisture from entering the gap that would be there without it. Flashing can be damaged in harsh weather, such as storms or high winds, or it may not have been properly installed in the first place.

Damaged flashing exposes your chimney and home to water ingress and potential damage.

Porous or Cracked Brick and Mortar

Bricks and mortar are porous materials and absorb water over time. This is problematic in areas with harsh winters because water seeps into these materials, freezes, and expands, causing cracks. If you don’t fix these cracks promptly, they’ll worsen, leading to deteriorating mortar joints and spalling bricks.

Condensation Issues

A poorly ventilated chimney, or one that doesn’t have a chimney liner, can form condensation inside. This excess moisture can lead to leaks, damage the flue liner, and weaken the chimney’s structure.

Roof Issues

Sometimes, the leak might not be with the chimney but with the roof around it. Damaged shingles, poor roofing installation, or inadequate waterproofing can allow water to get into the attic and create the appearance of a chimney leak.

Why Are Chimney Leaks Dangerous?

It’s easy to dismiss a chimney leak as a minor inconvenience, but if left unfixed, it can cause significant damage and costly repairs.

Structural Damage

As you’ve seen, water isn’t your chimney’s friend. When it gets inside, it can lead to cracked bricks and deteriorating mortar joints. Waiting too long to fix this can lead to a partial or total chimney collapse.

Mold and Mildew

Excess moisture makes the perfect breeding ground for mold and mildew. Mold growth looks unsightly, damages walls, and poses serious health risks, especially to people with compromised immune systems or respiratory conditions.

Higher Heating Costs

Chimney leaks can damage insulation, leading to heat loss. This can make your furnace or heater work harder to maintain the desired temperature and drive your energy bills through the roof.

How to Prevent Chimney Leaks

The good news is that chimney leaks are largely preventable, so here are some tips for being proactive.

Install a Chimney Cap

If there’s one thing you take away from this blog, it’s that water is awful for your chimney, and you must do everything to keep it out. The first line of defense against water ingress is the chimney cap. If you don’t have a chimney cap, install one as soon as possible. They’re inexpensive and easy to install. If you do have a cap, but it’s damaged, fix it or replace it.

Repair or Seal the Crown

Inspect the chimney crown for cracks or deterioration and fix issues as they come up. The longer you wait to fix cracks and other damage, the worse it gets, and the more water gets into the chimney. If the crown looks in good condition, consider applying a waterproof sealant.

Inspect the Flashing

Get up on the roof, look at the flashing, and check for loose or missing pieces or corrosion. These are signs that water is getting in despite the flashing.

Waterproof the Chimney

Applying a breathable waterproof product to the chimney can prevent water absorption, which can prevent water-related problems and extend your chimney’s lifespan.

Schedule a Professional Inspection

Annual chimney inspections by a certified professional can identify problems that you might miss. Professional chimney sweeps have the training and experience to identify and fix potential problems before they escalate.

Contact Northeastern Chimney for a professional inspection and waterproofing. We’re Central Connecticut’s trusted partner for all things chimney and fireplace-related.

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This post first appeared on https://www.mychimney.com

A dirty chimney may seem like a minor issue, but it can have significant effects on your home’s air quality. Over time, a buildup of soot, creosote, and other debris in your chimney can cause smoke and harmful particles to enter your home’s indoor air. These pollutants can contribute to respiratory issues and overall discomfort. If you have a dirty chimney, it’s important to address the problem before it becomes a health concern for you and your family.

At Best Chimney Services, we specialize in providing comprehensive chimney services to homeowners and businesses alike. We offer both residential and commercial services, including regular maintenance, inspections, and expert advice on how to keep your chimney in top condition. Let us help you keep your chimney in top shape by booking an appointment with us today! In the meantime, learn how a dirty chimney affects your home below.

The Importance of Clean Air for Your Home

Poor air quality can affect your comfort, health, and even your ability to concentrate. A dirty chimney plays a significant role in worsening indoor air, especially in homes with frequent fireplace use. The problem arises when the chimney is filled with soot and creosote, both of which are byproducts of burning wood or other fuels. These substances can prevent proper ventilation and force harmful smoke back into your home, affecting the air you breathe.

Creosote buildup in particular is a major culprit. It’s a highly flammable substance, and as it accumulates inside your chimney, it can cause dangerous chimney fires. But even if a fire doesn’t break out, creosote contributes to poor air quality by introducing carcinogens and other toxic compounds into your home. Over time, this can make your living environment hazardous, especially for children, the elderly, or anyone with pre existing respiratory conditions.

Decreasing Efficiency and Increasing Costs

A dirty chimney doesn’t just affect air quality; it can also reduce the efficiency of heating appliance. When the flue is obstructed by soot or creosote, your heating system has to work harder to maintain the same level of warmth. This means more energy is required, which can lead to higher utility bills.

Worse, the buildup inside your chimney can lead to improper combustion. When your system isn’t working as it should, the heat produced isn’t effectively vented out of your home, leaving you with a cold, inefficient space. In some cases, this can also lead to an increased risk of carbon monoxide, further compromising both your home’s air quality and safety.

Preventing Air Quality Issues with Regular Chimney Maintenance

The best way to ensure your chimney is clean and your indoor air quality stays healthy is by scheduling regular maintenance with a professional service. At Best Chimney Services, we offer expert cleaning and inspection services to ensure your system is clear of obstructions and functioning properly. During an inspection, we check for any cracks, buildup, or blockages that could affect your chimney’s performance. Our team will also advise you on the best practices for keeping your chimney clean between professional cleanings.

By keeping your chimney clean, you’ll not only improve your home’s air quality but also increase the longevity and efficiency of your heating system. We recommend having your chimney professionally inspected at least once a year. Regular maintenance is the best way to prevent dangerous buildup, ensure safe operation, and keep your home healthy.

Get Your Chimney Cleaned Today with Our Team

A dirty chimney is more than just an inconvenience—it can seriously affect your home’s air quality and overall health. At Best Chimney Services, we’re dedicated to helping you maintain a clean, safe, and efficient chimney. Contact us today to schedule your chimney inspection and cleaning, and breathe easier knowing your home’s air quality is in good hands.

The post How a Dirty Chimney Can Affect Your Home’s Air Quality appeared first on Boston's Best Chimney.

As the winter months roll on, many families rely on their chimneys to keep their homes warm and cozy. However, ensuring that your chimney is functioning properly is essential for maintaining proper function in your home. Chimney safety is not something to overlook, as improperly maintained chimneys can lead to fires, carbon monoxide poisoning, and other hazards. 

At Best Chimney, we understand the importance of maintaining a safe and functional chimney. With years of experience in both residential and commercial chimney services, our team is here to ensure your chimney system is ready for the winter. Just schedule an appointment with us to get started! In this blog, we’ll cover some essential chimney safety tips to help keep your family safe this winter season.

1. Schedule a Chimney Inspection

The first and most important step in chimney safety is scheduling a professional chimney inspection. A certified chimney technician will inspect your chimney for any blockages, creosote buildup, or damage that could pose a fire risk. Regular inspections are critical because they can identify issues that may not be visible to the naked eye. We recommend having an annual inspection to ensure your chimney is ready to use throughout the winter months.

2. Keep the Chimney Clean

Over time, chimneys can accumulate dangerous buildup of creosote and soot. Creosote is a highly flammable substance that forms when wood is burned and can lead to chimney fires if not regularly removed. A professional chimney sweeping can prevent this risk. When you work with us, our team will perform a thorough chimney sweeping to clear away these dangerous deposits and keep your chimney tip-top shape.

3. Use the Right Fuel

When using your fireplace, it’s essential to burn only the right kind of fuel. Hardwood, such as oak or hickory, is ideal for creating steady, long-lasting fires with less creosote buildup. Avoid burning trash, cardboard, or softwoods like pine, as these can produce more soot and contribute to chimney blockages. Always ensure your firewood is properly seasoned, meaning it’s dry and free from excessive moisture.

4. Install a Chimney Cap

A chimney cap is a small but effective addition that helps keep your chimney secure. It deters debris, such as leaves, twigs, or animal nests, from entering the flue and obstructing airflow. It also minimizes rain infiltration, reducing water damage and rust in the chimney system. A cap can even reduce downdrafts, encouraging smoke and gas to be vented properly from your home.

5. Check for Cracks or Damage

Regularly inspect your chimney for cracks or other signs of damage. Chimneys typically deteriorate from the inside out, so if you’re seeing damage on the outside, there may be a bigger issue lurking on the inside. Small cracks can allow smoke and carbon monoxide to leak into your home, creating a dangerous environment. If you notice any damage, it’s crucial to get it repaired by a professional right away. We offer expert chimney repairs, from minor fixes to major structural work, to keep your system running safely and efficiently.

6. Keep the Area Around the Fireplace Clear

Another simple but important safety tip is to keep the area around your fireplace or stove clear of flammable materials. Furniture, rugs, and decorations can easily catch fire from stray sparks. Make sure you have a safe, clear space around the hearth and always use a fire screen to protect your home from flying embers.

Keep Your Chimney Safe with Best Chimney

Regular inspections, sweepings, and proper maintenance will ensure your chimney functions in peak condition. We’re here to provide you with the expert chimney services you need to keep your home and family safe this winter. Whether you need a routine inspection or urgent repairs, we’re here to help. Contact us today to schedule your chimney inspection!

The post Chimney Safety Tips: Keeping Your Family Safe This Winter appeared first on Boston's Best Chimney.

Chimney sweeping is an essential operation that ensures chimney fires burn safely in houses with wood stoves or fireplaces. Without chimney care, there is a higher danger of smoke inhalation, house fires, and structural damage. As a result, a chimney sweep must be well-equipped with all the necessary tools for efficient and safe cleaning.

This guide will walk you through all the equipment a chimney sweep requires to clean a wide range of flues and chimneys vent smoke from wood, gas, coal, or oil.

Chimney rods

Rods can vary in length depending on the fireplace’s width or height. Each rod contains connectors at both ends that allow it to extend beyond its standard length, up to twenty feet, if necessary.

They are used with brushes to get into gaps too small for hand brushing techniques, guaranteeing that everything is totally clean while wiping away soot accumulations inside—no matter where they are hiding. A good set of steel rods should be strong enough to withstand repeated usage without bending or breaking over time.

Fireplace shovels

These chimney cleaning tools are essential for professional sweeps because they help collect any ash residue left behind after using a vacuum cleaner. They also clear away creosote build-up outside near the base of chimneys before installation, avoiding potential accidents caused by having combustible material nearby during the cleaning process.

This type often has little teeth all along its blade, which allows it to grip smaller particles, such as sawdust or soil, more easily rather than simply skimming over them as a standard shovel would.

Protective clothing and accessories

Wearing protective equipment is crucial when dealing with chimney dust and debris. A face mask is usually included with any vacuum cleaner, but if it isn’t, get one separately to keep particles from entering your lungs while cleaning the residue from your chimney walls and flue lining.

You should also consider wearing overalls or dedicated workwear designed specifically for such jobs; these will help protect your skin from the harsh chemicals found inside and shield you from debris that may fly up while cleaning, which could otherwise cause injury if not adequately protected.

Chimney brush kit

Chimney sweeps still use brushes to clean smoke chambers in fireplaces and chimneys. The most typical brush is a spherical wire brush that can be linked to extension poles, allowing the sweep to reach into the chimney.

Chimney brushes are helpful for various tasks, including removing creosote deposits and soot accumulation from the flue’s inside walls and sweeping debris off the roof. Depending on the form and width of the fireplace flue, chimney brushes come in various sizes to suit different circumstances.

Choose stainless steel options since they can withstand the corrosive effects of coal or other particles.

Chimney caps

Chimney caps are crucial in professional work because they keep water and animals out of a chimney and prevent downdrafts, which reduce fire efficiency. They also work as spark arrestors, preventing sparks from flying into the ground if no screen guard is fitted around them.

Chimney inspection devices

Inspecting the interior of masonry or metal chimneys can be difficult, if not impossible, without the necessary inspection gear, such as cameras or thermal imaging sensors. You can examine problems such as cracked mortar joint blockages produced by animals nesting within the stack liner without climbing down the ladder, and you can supervise the entire inspection procedure remotely.

If possible, consider investing in dual camera systems that allow both sides of the interior of the chimney wall to be watched simultaneously. This guarantees that no part is overlooked and provides extra peace of mind for future repairs or installation tasks.

Can you clean your chimney using the chimney sweep tools?

Although chimney cleaning is best left to professionals, you can always clean yours by yourself, but you have to follow the correct process. The process you need to follow includes the following:

Wear the right gear

Wearing the proper protective equipment, such as safety goggles and gloves made of thick leather or canvas, is crucial to cleaning your chimneys professionally. This will shield your hands and face from flying debris and splinters.

Know the tool you are using.

After selecting your tools and equipment, it’s important to read the directions before using them on hard tile or soft brick grates or surfaces. Also, always look for potential hazards during use, such as rust, sharp edges, and loose parts.

Proper maintenance is essential to maximizing tool longevity and effectiveness. If something looks wrong with the tool before starting the task at hand, spend a few minutes inspecting it.

Test the hard surfaces of your chimney.

When using chisel heads, evaluate the surface’s hardness by tapping gently before applying more pressure. This can help minimize chipping, cracking, or other damage in more complex surfaces such as brick or tile, allowing you to get the most out of your equipment while avoiding costly repair expenditures later.

Be prepared

Before beginning any job, ensure you have all your gear ready and on hand; nothing can slow down progress like an ill-prepared workplace. Ensure there is enough space surrounding the work area (mainly when dealing with significant carving works) and that you have all the essential protective equipment, such as eye protection and dust masks.

Plan for proper disposal

Once you’re done cleaning, professionally dispose of all waste. Chemical residue from residual loose mortar mixed with water can discolor other surfaces in your home. In general, bagging it in a sealed plastic bag is the safest option, but check with local authorities for disposal rules based on municipality laws governing building materials/tools used to complete a job.

Parting shot

These are some tools your chimney cleaning services Bowie can use to clean your chimney. It’s always good to let the professional do the cleaning, but if you have the necessary skills, you can go ahead and do the cleaning yourself, but ensure that you follow the right chimney cleaning and waste disposal best practices.

The post Chimney Cleaning Tools Your Chimney Sweep Should Have first appeared on First Class Chimney Services.

This post first appeared on https://www.firstclasschimneyservices.com

Simple Steps to Avoid Common Fireplace Accidents to Keep Your Family Safe

It happens in a heartbeat. One moment, you’re cozied up by the fire, enjoying the warmth and the company of loved ones. The next, a relaxing evening turns into a disaster. Each year, countless families experience the devastation of fireplace-related accidents—incidents that are often entirely preventable with a little preparation.

As someone who knows just how inviting a crackling fire can be, we want to share four vital safety tips to help ensure that your fireplace remains a source of comfort, not danger. After all, it isn’t just about having a fireplace—it’s about using it the right way.

Here’s how you can make this winter one to remember, for all the right reasons: (read more)

1. The Chimney Check: Your First Line of Defense:

A chimney check isn’t just something you want to check off the “to-do” list —it’s essential. Creosote, that dark, sticky buildup that forms inside your chimney, is highly flammable. A chimney inspection from a certified sweep can help ensure that dangerous blockages and buildup are swept out. Think of it as your fireplace’s yearly health check-up. It’s an easy step that could protect your home and your family.

2. The Safety Zone: Keep a Safe Perimeter:

The warm glow of the fire is inviting, but creating a three-foot “safety zone” around it is crucial. Keep furniture, hanging mantel decor and children’s toys well away from the fireplace opening, better yet, install a sturdy screen to catch any sparks. This zone isn’t just for kids—make sure everyone knows the importance of staying clear. Treat it like a family rule, just like buckling up in the car.

3. The Smart Start: Fuel Your Fire Safely:

While it might be tempting to burn anything and everything to get the fire going, the wrong materials can quickly turn your fireplace into a hazard. Avoid burning old magazines, wrapping paper, sticks, wet wood, or anything else laying around the house. Stick to seasoned hardwood that’s been dried for at least six months. The right fuel helps ensure a steady, controlled burn and maximum efficiency to reduce creosote buildup.

4. The Exit Strategy: Smoke Alarms and Escape Plans:

Even the most careful fire can release smoke, so it’s crucial to have the right safety equipment in place. Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors on every level of your home, particularly near sleeping areas. Test them monthly, and don’t forget to replace the batteries twice a year (remember: change the clocks, change the batteries!). More importantly, create a family escape plan and talk about it regularly—don’t wait until an emergency strikes.

Remember, your fireplace is a beautiful way to create warmth and memories—but it’s also a potential hazard if not treated with respect. By following these simple safety tips, you can enjoy countless cozy nights by the fire without worry.

Take action today—schedule your chimney inspection and sweeping and make this winter the coziest yet!

The post 4 Fireplace Safety Tips You Can’t Afford to Miss appeared first on Boston's Best Chimney.

Now is a good time to service your furnace. With warmer weather just around the corner, you will want to turn off your furnace with the confidence that when winter comes around again, it will work properly. Northeastern Chimney is there for you. Our professional technicians will clean out and check for proper functioning.

If your furnace is not venting properly, there are safety issues involved. If your furnace is not venting correctly, there can be serious safety issues, such as carbon monoxide poisoning and house fires.

How Do I Know If There Is An Issue?

• Moisture. If the furnace is not venting, you will see moisture on your windows on a cold day. Furnace fumes are moist. When the furnace isn’t venting outside, the moisture accumulates in the house.
• Backdraft. When the furnace isn’t getting airflow, the fumes will be brought back into the home. Some of the causes of backdraft:
  • The flue size may not be large enough for your unit.
  • There may be an obstruction in the flue. 
  • There is a negative airflow. 
• Rust on your unit. Due to the moisture in the air, your unit will start to rust. Watch for the development of rust. 
• Improper alignment. If your unit is on a slope the condensation won’t drain properly. 

Our team can help with all these issues including realigning your furnace to work properly.

What Can I Do To Prevent Poor Ventilation?

• Regular maintenance which includes an annual inspection of your furnace. Our technicians at Northeastern Chimney are trained in proper furnace repair and cleaning. 
• Install a CO detector. Carbon Monoxide is a poisonous, odorless, and colorless gas. The most common causes of carbon monoxide poisoning are incorrectly installed or poorly ventilated or maintained appliances.  Installing a CO detector will alert you if there are any concerns.
• Visual assessment. With the information above, you have an idea now as to what to look for. Take a look at your furnace. Be sure you aren’t seeing an excessive amount of moisture around the unit. Check to see if the furnace is starting to rust. If you see any of these it is time to call Northeastern Chimney. 

Annual Inspections and Regular Cleanings

All vented heating units in your home should be inspected and cleaned on a regular basis. This will give you peace of mind that you have done everything possible to keep your family safe and your units operating efficiently. Remember that any appliance that needs venting can become blocked. This causes the possibility of a fire or carbon monoxide poisoning. A clean venting system will give you better performance and run much more efficiently.

Now is the time to contact us at Northeastern Chimney. We are here to help with your appointment. Our technicians will work with your schedule.

Contact Northeastern Chimney to schedule your inspection or cleaning soon. We service Hartford, Tolland, and Litchfield Counties. All our chimney technicians are trained and qualified. We are active in the National Chimney Sweep Guild (NCSG).

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This post first appeared on https://www.mychimney.com

Have you noticed that odor in the fireplace sometimes smells similar to the residue of fireworks? Every New Years Eve across the world, and Fourth of July in the US, fireworks explode into a concoction of bright, beautiful colors of various shapes and movements. After the celebrations, the smoke from the sky sinks into the streets, giving the appearance of a smokey, foggy night. As the night progresses, the smell of old fireworks wafted into my nose. The first thought I had was how it smelled. The fireplace smells like fireworks! Not a pleasant smell.

Why is your Fireplace Stinking Up the House?

If you’ve lit your fireplace and suddenly, your fireplace smells like fireworks, it could be problematic. What do you think the cause is? At Superior Chimney, we’ve heard many theories or reasons for the smell. From Mom overcooked dinner, it’s a smell from the outside, bad/old wood, or an improper fireplace structure, any theory seems plausible when it comes to an odor in the fireplace.

Poor Ventilation Can Cause an Odor in the Fireplace

A blocked or improperly functioning flue can cause air flow in the wrong direction. As warm air goes up and out, cool air drops down. That cool air may be in larger amounts depending on the structure of the chimney. Poor ventilation causes a buildup of gasses and soot. Both can be dangerous to you and your family.

Dirty Fireplace or Chimney

Over time, dust, soot, creosote, ash and debris accumulate in the chimney and fireplace. Even if you don’t use the chimney often or at all, these small particles still build up. When the fireplace is lit, these particles can ignite, which can be dangerous, and also develop an odor in the fireplace. If you have a wood burning fireplace, creosote, a product of combustion, forms on the sides of the chimney that leads up to the termination. This substance accumulates, or builds upon itself, and when it gets wet or reacts with moisture, creosote gives off a horrible, smoky odor.

Can Odors Be Prevented?

Yes, of course you can prevent odor in the fireplace. The first thing you’ll want to do is hire a certified professional chimney sweep like Superior Chimney. A certified chimney sweep technician will conduct a 14-point inspection on your chimney as the technician sweeps the system. This might involve removing creosote and dust from places that are very hard to reach.

Keeping your home ventilated and maintaining proper airflow will help remove odors, too. Every fireplace could have a faint odor to it, even if perfectly built and swept. Keeping that downdraft to a minimum will help reduce the fireplace odors. And finally, check out the top of your chimney. Are you missing a chimney cap, or your cap is damaged or falling off? It’s a simple, yet effective way to prevent moisture and animals from getting inside your chimney and ultimately your house. Our certified technicians will automatically check several points on the exterior, and the chimney cap is just one aspect.

Time to Get Rid of that Smell! Odor in the fireplace can be frustrating. With consistent annual maintenance and repairs, it is possible to enjoy a clean scent coming from the fireplace! To start with your chimney inspection and sweep, contact a chimney professional from Superior Chimney today at 877-244-6349. And get of the fireplace smells like fireworks.

This post first appeared on https://www.superiorchimney.net

Around the start of the year, most homeowners in the Chicagoland area start thinking about sweeping out the fireplace. Why does this happen? Well, we had the holidays, maybe a couple of birthdays and then we are all exhausted. As January progressed and we began to recover, many began to say, “Sweeping the fireplace can be done in the Spring.” Then smelly stuff comes out of the fireplace or maybe even a leak. Ugh.

Have you gotten around to sweeping the fireplace yet? Now that January is ending, let’s look at 2024’s most popular articles. Maybe it can be inspirational or a late entry for the New Year resolution.

Chimney Leaks

Each Season brings a ‘special’ kind of chimney leak, especially Winter with the freeze & thaw cycle. This is an important part of sweeping the fireplace, as monitoring for chimney leaks is very important. If you notice any of these signs, we recommend contacting Superior Chimney as soon as possible. This means there is a good chance that you have a chimney leak. Here are a few ways to identify a chimney leak, then review the article from June.
A pool or drips of water near the fireplace

1. Dampness in your home
2. Dripping sound of water
3. A musty odor coming from the chimney
4. A stain on the wall or ceiling

Drafts

We know that in any season, drafts can happen. Sweeping out the fireplace includes taking care of any persisting cold or musty air drafts. If you are noticing cold air coming from your chimney, you may have a draft problem. Drafts make you feel cold inside your room, even if the furnace is on! Usually, negative air pressure causes drafts, and so do obstructions. To prevent unwanted drafts, you might have to replace or buy a chimney cap, but usually a Superior Chimney professional will determine the cause. Let’s review the article from February.

Removing Debris and Creosote

Removing debris and creosote from wood burning fireplaces is crucial to your chimney’s health. Debris that obstructs the flow of smoke out from your chimney means that it will back up and enter your home where your family is living. In addition, creosote can be extremely flammable and cause a fire in the home. It is also common that debris and leaves fall down the chimney, sparks can fly up past the firebox. When lighting up your fireplace, it is important to keep safe and call Superior Chimney to get started on sweeping the fireplace. Review the November article.

Chimney Odors

Chimney odors is a common occurrence and is a sure sign you need to get your chimney swept! Chimney odors come from humid air during the various times of the year. One of the downfalls of humidity is the development of mold. Mold does have an odor as well as creosote. Both exude a smokey, burning smell. Without sweeping the chimney, you might experience a nasty chimney odor which a technician can safely diagnose. Refresh yourself on the February article.

Calling A Chimney Professional, Superior Chimney! If you notice any signs of chimney damage discussed above, give Superior Chimney a call at 877-244-6449. A Nationally Certified chimney professional will go through a 14-point chimney inspection of your chimney system. We will check the exterior and interior to ensure all is in working order before you light up your chimney again. If you haven’t registered for your annual chimney sweep, now’s the time. The Chimney Safety Institute says to have your chimney swept at least once a year. A Superior chimney professional will help you through this process. Sweeping out the fireplace means call us at 877-244-6349.

This post first appeared on https://www.superiorchimney.net

What a wonderful addition to your home! A fireplace that brings warmth and a vibe of relaxation is a great addition. We become accustomed to the joy that a fireplace brings us. But it is not always the joy of our lives. Periodically, there may be an odor that comes from the fireplace. There are many causes of these smells. It is usually an easy fix, and we can help you solve this situation. Our staff at Northeastern Chimney will be happy to help you work through these annoying smells. 

Why Does my Fireplace Smell?

There are many reasons that you may be experiencing odors from your fireplace. Let us discuss some that you may be experiencing these odors.

Air Circulation

When you have negative air pressure you may find that the odor is flowing into your house. You may notice a negative airflow issue if you have recently had a new roof put on or a small task such as changing out your kitchen vent system. Any adjustment may affect the flow of air. There are ways to prevent the effects of negative air pressure.

• Using the fireplace damper properly will help with this. The damper should be open when you have a fire burning—and closed when you no longer have a fire.
• Install a glass door to the opening of your fireplace.
• Install a top-sealing damper. Keep the damper closed when not using the fireplace.

Excessive Creosote

Keeping your chimney cleaned from creosote and soot will help to keep the smells under control. Plan an annual chimney sweep from Northeastern Chimney. Yearly cleanings will keep the smells at bay.

Animal, debris, and remains

Periodically small animals or birds get trapped in the chimney. Unfortunately, they may pass in the chimney and decompose causing a foul odor. While animals may find their way into the chimney, you may also find that leaves, sticks, and other debris find their way in as well. Once leaves get into the chimney, they may get wet. Once the leaves start to decompose, an odor will be emitted. Inserting a chimney cap can help to keep your chimney free of debris. 

Moisture

If water gets into your chimney you may start to smell an odor from the mold or mildew that starts to grow. Installing a chimney cap will protect your chimney from water as well. Working with Northeastern Chimney to protect your home from water will save you costly repairs in the future. The intrusion of water not only will cause odors but may also bring damage to the interior of your home.

Taking the steps to prevent odors is your first defense to avoiding the smells. First and foremost, contact Northeastern Chimney to set up your annual chimney sweep. Keeping up with an annual maintenance program will help you keep the smells away.  

Call Northeastern Chimney to schedule your inspection or cleaning soon. We service Hartford, Tolland, and Litchfield Counties. All our chimney technicians are trained and qualified. We are active in the National Chimney Sweep Guild (NCSG). 

The post Reasons Your Fireplace Smells Bad   appeared first on .

This post first appeared on https://www.mychimney.com

When your fireplace and chimney run efficiently in winter, you save money on heating while also enjoying the fireplace more. Unfortunately, it is no accident that a fireplace runs efficiently every winter. A series of parameters operate in tandem to guarantee that fires burn hot and combustion byproducts depart through the chimney as they should.

What can you do to ensure that your fireplace functions optimally? Well, there are a number of things you should do. These things, as given by chimney contractors, include:

Only use seasoned wood.

Whether you cut your firewood or acquire it from a local supplier, the wood you load into your fireplace should have had time to dry or season. Firewood that has not been adequately seasoned (green wood) produces excessive smoke and does not provide as much heat as it should.

Freshly cut wood normally takes 6 to 12 months to dry out and season correctly. Properly seasoned firewood should have a moisture content of 20% or less.

You can use a wood moisture meter to determine the moisture level of your wood. It is also a good idea to test any wood you intend to buy to confirm that it is ready to burn.

To keep wood dry, keep it off the ground, split-side down, and allow air circulation around it. To keep rain and snow off stacked wood, cover it with a tarp.

Keep the dampers closed.

When the fireplace is not in use, you should use the damper, which is a metal mechanism that keeps air, moisture, and debris out of the firebox. When you don’t close the damper after the fire has extinguished, it would be like leaving a window open—all the hot air will be lost.

Additionally, all of the heat produced will exit through the chimney. When the fire is totally out, close the fireplace damper to keep the heat in the firebox, which will keep your living area warm for a few hours.

You should note that before you start a fire in your fireplace, fully open the damper to allow the chimney draft to function correctly. This may seem obvious to some, yet thousands of people are inundated with smoke every year because the damper remains closed when they are igniting a fire.

For the damper to give you the results that you are after, it must make a tight seal. If it doesn’t, you should have it replaced as early as possible.

Start the fire the right way.

While starting a fire may appear simple enough, there is a way to create a strong burning fire that produces more heat while using less fuel. Here are some pointers for getting your fire started properly:

Start Small: Before you start the fire, ensure that all of your fireplace’s air controls are open to offer the air your fire requires to thrive. Begin with shredded newspapers and small bits of kindling. After you’ve filled the newspaper and kindled it, place one or two logs on top and light them.

Allow the small fire to build until it is roaring before adding more wood. When you’re ready to add more wood, leave enough space between the pieces to promote airflow and keep the fire going.

Install a fireplace insert.

A classic masonry fireplace sends up to 85% of the heat it produces up the chimney. That is not a particularly efficient means of home heating. However, you can reverse the situation with an EPA-certified fireplace insert.

Fireplace inserts are self-contained heating units that fit directly into the opening of an existing masonry fireplace. Its ingenious design maintains the majority of the heat it generates (80% to 90%), requiring only one-third the amount of fuel.

It not only improves your fireplace’s heating effectiveness, but it is also more environmentally friendly, emitting only a fraction of the smoke, soot, and creosote than a regular fireplace does.

When getting the insert and installing it, ensure that the work is done by a professional who knows what they are doing.

Make use of glass fireplace doors.

Closing the glass doors will help to radiate the heat in the firebox throughout the living area and prevent the heated indoor air from being sucked into the fireplace, even though the damper must remain open to vent exhaust when flames are present.

Installing glass fireplace doors is a simple, affordable, and useful way to improve the heating efficiency of your fireplace.

Many fireplace enthusiasts enjoy an open-fire burning experience with nothing more than a mesh screen for protection. However, this will have a negative effect because the warmer indoor air will be drawn back into the fireplace and up the chimney.

Prime the chimney

If the smoke enters the room rather than going up the chimney when you light the tinder to start your fire with the damper open, it’s time to prime your chimney. Once a column of cold air has filled the chimney flue, you must prime the chimney.

To force out the cold air and enable the hot air to ascend, there must be enough heat. Making a torch out of newspaper, lighting it, and carefully holding it up toward the damper is the standard way for priming the chimney.

You can have a great winter fire after priming the chimney, which may take two or even three tries to get right, so you should exercise some patience when doing it.

Keep your chimney in good shape.

Maintaining your chimney and fireplace properly keeps your family safer, in addition to increasing the chimney’s efficiency.

Wood burning can be hampered, and the draft can be reduced by soot accumulation in the flue lining of your chimney. With only a tenth of an inch of layered soot, soot and ash accumulation in the fireplace can significantly reduce the rate of heat transfer by up to 50%.

A byproduct of burning wood, creosote accumulation in your chimney can also reduce efficiency and pose a fire risk.

At least once a year, right after you stop using your fireplace in the spring, have your chimney and fireplace cleaned by professional chimney cleaning services Upper Marlboro for optimal benefits.

As a rule of thumb, work with professionals who know what they are doing.

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