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845-471-1071
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Reasons Why Your Fireplace May Be Smelly

Have you ever walked into your house and smelled a bad odor? Wondering what it is, you search the home and realize it’s coming from your fireplace. Unfortunately, smells do happen. We will discuss here the reasons and how you can get rid of them or avoid them altogether. Your home is your sanctuary, don’t let fireplace smells invade it.

What Causes Odors From The Fireplace?

  • Smells of moisture coming from your fireplace indicate a leak from either the cap or a cracked chimney crown in Kingston, New YorkCreosote Buildup. A smell similar to a campfire is almost always caused by creosote. This is a tar-like residue that builds up inside the chimney from burning wood. When the air is humid, the odor can become stronger. 
  • Animal Intrusion. Small animals, such as squirrels, birds, or other animals nesting in the chimney, can cause strong, unpleasant odors. When there is an opening to your chimney, these animals find their way in, bringing nesting debris. As it decays, it will smell.
  • Moisture in the chimney. Rain and snow can enter the chimney through a missing or damaged chimney cap. The moisture mixed with soot and creosote will create a musty, sour, or smoky smell.
  • Negative air pressure. If your home has negative pressure, common in tightly sealed homes, it can pull air down the chimney and into the home. This would bring odors from the chimney with it. 
  • Old ash in the firebox. Ash left in the fireplace can absorb moisture, causing a smell.
  • Issues with the Damper. If the damper isn’t working properly and doesn’t close tightly, outside air and odors can enter the home.

What To Do?

  • Schedule a professional chimney inspection and cleaning with Hudson Valley Chimney today.
  • Be sure that the fire is completely cold. Remove any ash in the firebox. The ash can be used as a natural fertilizer for your garden and lawn. 
  • Make sure you have a properly fitted chimney cap to keep critters out.
  • Consider installing a top-sealing damper if air leakage is an issue.

Fireplace odors are not just unpleasant; they may be signalling an underlying issue. If creosote is the issue, it is important to have it removed. Creosote is highly flammable, and creosote buildup is one of the major causes of chimney fires. If moisture is intruding through a damaged chimney cap or damper, our technicians can offer suggestions for correction. 

creosote buildup is one of the major causes of chimney fires in Putnam Valley, NYAddressing the odor smell can ultimately save you in the future. If the smell is coming from moisture, it means water is likely entering the chimney from above. This could indicate a leak from either the cap or a cracked chimney crown. Correcting these damages early will avoid costly repairs in the future.

Hudson Valley Chimney has proudly provided professional chimney services throughout the area since 1976. We provide chimney cleaning, repairs, and inspections services. Industry professionals recommend having your chimney inspected annually to ensure safety and optimal performance. For reliable, high-quality workmanship, contact us today to schedule your next chimney sweep and inspection.