After starting a fire in your fireplace, you should never find your home filled with smoke. You should see smoke rising from the chimney rather than entering the room if your fireplace damper is open. A faulty chimney draft can quickly result in more smoke entering your home rather than being drawn out.
Here are some reasons why your fireplace is smoking up your home.
Warm Outdoor Temperatures
When there is a significant difference between indoor and outdoor temperatures, your fireplace can draft better. That said, it is more likely for your fireplace to draft poorly and send smoke into your home when the outside temperature is warm and close to your indoor temperature. Check the temperatures outside and inside your home before lighting your fireplace. Furthermore, it may be best to use your fireplace only when it is cold outside.
Blocked Chimney
The primary purpose of your chimney is to allow smoke to pass through and out of your home when you use your fireplace. Depending on how frequently you use your fireplace, you may start to notice fireplace smoke in your home. A dirty chimney is a significant contributor to this issue.
As a general rule, your chimney should be cleaned every face cord of wood or every two years, whichever comes first. When your chimney becomes too dirty, it puts your home at risk of chimney fires and makes your fireplace less efficient. It is best to call chimney relining and maintenance experts for regular inspections.
Use of Wet Firewood
The heat generated by wet firewood is not sufficient to draw the chimney properly. If you hear a hissing sound or the fire is smoldering, your firewood likely contains water. Before burning firewood, hit two small pieces together. A dull thud indicates that the wood is wet. However, if you hear a sharp, crisp sound, the wood is dry enough to burn. Always store your firewood away from moisture and only burn seasoned wood that has completely dried.
Looking for a reliable chimney sweep? Chimney Doctors got you covered. Call us at (518) 882-5009, or fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment. We serve clients in Clifton Park, NY, and other nearby areas.
