3 Reasons Your Fireplace Is Producing Smoke In Your Home

On a cold evening, few things are as inviting and comforting as a warm blaze from the fireplace. If your fireplace is producing a warm blaze but also a room full of smoke – you have a problem on your hands. There are several reasons why your fireplace might operate this way, but fortunately, there are a number of practical reasons why. Here are just some of the things to look for if you are experiencing this problem.

Closed Damper

One of the most common reasons for fireplace smoking is a closed damper. This is especially the case if the fireplace is always producing smoke. The damper, a small lever type device inside the flue, allows the smoke from the flames to escape.

If the damper is closed, instead of the smoke traveling upward and out of your home, it will flow into your home. Even if you believe the damper is open, a bird's nest or buildup of leaves or other organic matter can block the opening. Simply opening it will resolve the problem.

Dirty Chimney Cap

If you have a chimney cap installed on your roof, ensure it is clean. Caps are primarily used to keep animals from entering inside your home. However, this doesn't mean they will stay away. Some animals like the design of the cap and will use the area to create a nest.

These nests clog the opening of the cap and create a blockage. When the smoke can't pass through the cap, it will travel back down into your home. Ensure you are keeping your chimney cap clean and clear to avoid this type of mishap and to keep smoke out of your home.

Flue Design Flaw

If you're having issues with smoke and you have a newly installed fireplace, a poor design could be the culprit. In terms of the design, if the size of the flue opening is too small compared to the size of the fireplace, this could result in some of the excess smoke being transferred into your home.

In this instance, you may need to have a technician from a company like A One Heating & Air Conditioning come to your home to ensure the flue has been sized appropriately and if not, have it corrected. Otherwise, you will continue to have smoke issues in your home.

Smoke blowing in to your home isn't just an inconvenience, it can also present a serious health hazard. Ensure you are investigating this issue and have your fireplace repaired if necessary.