Living in the Windy City often brings frigid cold spells, and these weather conditions are a primary reason why fireplaces are so popular in Chicagoland, IL. However, due to a variety of factors, it’s not unusual to smell a burnt odor at times.
Here, we’ll discuss the causes, methods of removal, and prevention techniques to help homes maintain a fresh odor year-round.
Common Causes Of Chimney Odors & Fireplace Smells
There are a few primary reasons that your residence may smell like burning wood or chemicals when it’s not burning.
- Lack Of Cleaning
- Negative Air Pressure
- Humidity
- Rain & Snow
Neglecting Cleaning & Negative Air Pressure
If you smell woodsmoke aromas, it’s likely due to a dirty fireplace chimney or negative pressure being forced into the home via the chimney. Negative air pressure makes the chimney suck down air from the chimney, pushing it into the home instead of the flue. This allows any absorbed creosote in the fireplace liner and smoke shelf to permeate your interior.
The Source Of Camp Fire Smell In Summer
It’s not uncommon for an unclean fireplace to exude a woodsmoke smell during the summertime. This results from rain, humidity, and moisture from melting snow, permeating creosote buildup, and can be rather pungent and unpleasant for occupants.
How Professionals Resolve Fireplace Odors
The simplest way to eradicate smells from the fireplace is to schedule a professional cleaning. Fireplace and chimney sweep services involve routine maintenance that keeps things functioning properly and odor-free.
This process will remove soot, creosote, and leaves, prevent odors, and reduce the risk of incidental fires. Here are the five steps of a proper chimney sweep that Chicagoland fireplace professionals take to eliminate smokey smells.
- Inspecting the Fireplace: We’ll begin by completing a visual inspection of the interior which includes the fireplace, firebox, and checking upwards towards the chimney flue.
- Chimney Flue: Next, we start breaking up creosote buildup in the chimney.
- Debris Removal: We remove the fallen buildup and any other debris in the fireplace’s components.
- Smoke Shelf Vacuuming: Your technician will clean any excess creosote from the smoke shelf.
- Inspecting the Chimney: After cleaning, we will inspect both the interior and exterior of the chimney to ensure the job is done correctly and check for any existing damage.
Steps To Fireplace Odor Prevention
Besides getting seasonal cleanings, waterproofing your fireplace is essential due to the predominance of rain and winter snow. Damage due to water can cause mold to form, which can be hazardous to the occupant’s health.
Closing your fireplace damper when not in use helps prevent drafts from coming through the chimney. This helps stave off odors and reduces the loss of heating and cooling. Installing a fireplace door can further reduce odors and efficiency while enhancing the interior decor of your home.
Call Us For Chimney Cleaning & Repairs In Chicagoland, IL
Windy Chimney Services offers comprehensive fireplace cleaning and maintenance in the Chicagoland, IL, and Schaumburg areas. We are a family owned company that offers personalized service that will exceed your expectations. We’re available for routine appointments and emergency services.
