If there has been a noticeable unpleasant odor in your home that seems to be coming from the fireplace and chimney, there are several things that could be the source. During the summer months, chimney odors are more common because of the constant use of your air conditioners. On top of that, weatherization techniques to keep the cooled air from escaping can cause negative pressure in your home. This said negative pressure can affect the draft in your chimney and push down air from the chimney into your home. This air can bring along terrible smelling chimney odors.
Creosote
If the unpleasant odor in your home smells like fresh asphalt or charcoal, the source of this smell is most likely creosote. When you burn wood in your fireplace, creosote gradually develops in the chimney during the condensation process that occurs as smoke exits the chimney. Creosote can quickly build up into large amounts, thus causing a multitude of problems. Easily the most dangerous problem is an exponentially higher risk of a chimney fire. The Chimney Safety Institute of American has issued a statement that creosote is the leading cause of chimney fires. Not only is creosote extremely flammable, but it also releases a very strong odor, that is worsened by heat and humidity. To reduce your risk of chimney fires by way of creosote build-up, call Guaranteed Chimney of Westchester today for an approved and certified chimney cleaning.
Water
Is the unpleasant odor musty? If so, you could have standing water on the smoke shelf and this could be the primary source of your chimney. Being vigilant in keeping water out of your chimney is crucial to the lifespan of your chimney and you need to have a chimney cap professionally installed on the top of the chimney to prevent water from constantly building up. Without a chimney cap, you could have leaves caught in the chimney, which only make the odor worse.
Dead Bird Or Wild Animal
It's an unfortunate reality, but several different types of animals do get caught in chimneys-especially if there is no chimney cap. If an animal is stuck or unfortunately dies in your chimney, you will definitely know that this is the source of the odor. A chimney cap not only prevents water damage to your chimney, but the mesh metal sides will stop animals from invading the flue. Guaranteed Chimney has a wide array of chimney caps that can be installed-based on budget and preference and once you have picked out your new cap, one of our experts will have it installed immediately to keep your chimney, your home and your family safe.
If your chimney is emitting any of these odors, please call Guaranteed Chimney of Westchester and remedy the problem immediately!