Let’s break down a few causes behind your drafty fireplace and what can be done to fix those problems and get everything running as it should be.
If you’ve noticed that familiar smell of a smoky fireplace, even when your fire isn’t lit, you may be experiencing a drafty fireplace. As far as chimney issues go, a draft fireplace is one of the most common out there, and there are a ton of causes that may be the culprit as well! A professional chimney sweep or repair service is going to know what to look for. However, you may be the kind of sleuth who wants to solve this mystery on your own. Let’s break down a few causes behind your drafty fireplace and what can be done to fix those problems and get everything running as it should be.
Blockages
If your chimney is blocked up, this may be the cause of your whole issue. Common causes of blockages include creosote buildup on the chimney cap screen or in the flue lining, broken pieces of your masonry, or even some birds nesting in your chimney. It’s always ideal that your fireplace and chimney are clean and inspected once a year. If you’re using your fireplace frequently, you may need even more regular service than that.
Lacking Airflow
Is your home stuffy? If your home is sealed up, it may not be letting enough airflow reach your chimney. If there are windows near your fireplace, try cracking them open and see if smoke then goes up the chimney, which would then be a sign that your home needs better airflow. Exhaust fans on your appliances often cause inadequate air flow, so that’s something to look out for as well.
Your Chimney’s Size
While there are existing guidelines for the height of a chimney, those guidelines exist as minimums, not recommendations. What this can mean sometimes is that the height of a chimney is what’s actually causing a backdraft. If a chimney is too high, it could end up causing that backdraft that you dislike so much. A chimney can either be too large or too small. Either one can cause backdraft, so work alongside a professional if you suspect your chimney’s size may be the culprit.
The Flue
The air in your flue can get too cold, which will then adversely affect your chimney’s draft. We often see this issue with exterior masonry chimneys. These kinds of chimneys can lose a considerable amount of heat, allowing the smoke to cool down and sink back into your home, creating a draft.
Don’t Be in Despair If Your Chimney Needs Repair
Champion Chimneys, Inc. is a fully licensed, bonded and insured chimney service company that has been serving customers in Baltimore County, Howard County, and Anne Arundel County, Maryland since 2001. Our team is trained and certified by Certified Chimney Professionals, Inc. (CCP, Inc.). Courteous service is our trademark, and our crews arrive on time in uniform, driving fully equipped trucks. We specialize in all aspects of your chimney system. Whether you need chimney and flue cleaning service or a full chimney rebuild or inspection, contact us at 443-Chimney today and let us fix all your chimney problems. Also, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Pinterest.