What You Need to Know About Smelly Chimneys

Chimney odors can be tricky. One reason is you don’t always know right at first that the odor is, in fact, coming from the chimney. Then, once you determine that the chimney is to blame, you have to figure out what’s causing the smell.

The Chimney Guys of Pataskala, OH, have resolved a lot of our customers’ smelly chimney issues since 2004 and would like to share some information that will be helpful to you.

Why does my chimney stink?

Chimneys can exude nasty smells for a variety of reasons. Here are the most common.

Creosote buildup

Creosote forms when smoke condenses in a chimney flue and is full of oils and acids that make for some pretty bad smells. If creosote builds up through the neglect of regular chimney sweeping, odors are on the way. 

Debris

If you operate your chimney without a secure chimney cap or flue cover, leaves, twigs and other debris can get into the flue and start rotting. The nests of small animals that shelter in chimneys can also rot. Throw in some creosote and moisture, and you have a very significant odor problem.

Deceased animals

Squirrels, birds, raccoons, rodents and other small animals often hang out in chimneys. Unfortunately, some of them die inside the flue, presumably because they couldn’t make their way out. Whatever the reason for the demise, a single dead animal will give off a smell that can force you to evacuate the house.

Humidity and chimney leaks

Natural humidity can enhance the smell of any material that’s already in the flue. A chimney leak will compound it.

What to do about a smelly chimney

There are several approaches to solving smelly chimney problems.

Have your chimney inspected

This is step one. You need to find out exactly what’s causing the problem so it can be addressed the right way. A chimney inspector will quickly zero in on the reason your chimney is stinking up your home.

Chimney sweeping

Professional chimney sweeping will remove the bulk of built-up creosote and soot. If these substances are the cause of your odor issue, you’ll notice a significant difference immediately.

Install a chimney cap

A chimney without a chimney cap will continue to allow in animals and debris. The only way to stop this is by having a cap installed.

Fix chimney leaks

Chimney leaks should be fixed to reduce odors. They should also be fixed to prevent widespread chimney deterioration. 

Fix or replace the damper

A well-working fireplace damper will seal off the chimney air when the fireplace isn’t being used. It won’t remove the odors, but it will keep them from free-flowing into your room when the damper is shut.

Be aware of exhaust

Exhaust fans and certain heating and air conditioning systems pull air from the rooms of a house. Some of the air that gets pulled comes from the chimney, so keep the chimney clean and make sure the damper seals well.

Get your chimney working right

The Chimney Guys is ready to solve your smelly chimney problems. We provide licensed chimney inspections, chimney cleaning, leaky chimney repairs, component installations and all the other services you need to keep your chimney working like it should.

Reach us by phone in the greater Columbus, OH, area, or get in touch by using our contact form.