How to Reduce and Prevent Danger of Fireplace Smoke in House

With the winter’s colder temperatures, the desire to stay warm and cozy is high. For some, a fireplace is ideal for turning up the heat. However, a fireplace that produces more smoke than heat can be an issue, and smoke odour removal might be needed. Fortunately, there are several steps homeowners can take to minimize or even eliminate the amount of smoke in their homes while using their fireplaces.

Why Does My Fireplace Smoke Up My House?

The first step in reducing fireplace smoke in the house is understanding why it is occurring. There are various reasons why a wood-burning fireplace, the most common type of fireplace, may smoke up your home.

Your damper is closed

A fireplace damper works as a valve, helping to regulate the airflow in and out of your fireplace. If the damper is closed while a fire is lit, the smoke will have no way to escape and can enter your house.

Unseasoned wood

Seasoned wood or thoroughly dry wood should be kept in a place free of moisture, as wet firewood can cause problems. Not only can wood smoke if it hasn’t been seasoned (dried) properly, but it can also create a moist environment for mould and mildew. Mould growth and moisture content can cause structural damage and health issues, so it’s best to keep wood in a place with good airflow.

The flue is cold

A cold flue or cold air in the chimney is also a common cause of fireplace smoke in the home. When the air inside your flue is too cold, it pushes smoke back into your home because colder air is dense. 

Not enough air for combustion

If oxygen levels entering your fireplace are insufficient, it can lead to incomplete fuel burning, causing excess smoke to permeate your home.

A poorly installed or improperly sized flue

If a flue liner is incorrectly sized or not securely installed, it may need time to allow more draft (or upward pressure) to draw out smoke from the fireplace efficiently. Contact a certified fireplace installer for flue inspection and chimney repairs to avoid this.

A blocked chimney

If debris, soot, or creosote accumulates in your duct, it can cause smoke from your fire to be released back into your home instead of safely exiting from the top of the stack. It is important to note that creosote buildup can also lead to a chimney fire.

Change in pressure

You want well-balanced air pressure between your fireplace and the rest of your home. If there is an imbalance, it can cause smoke to enter your living quarters instead of going up your chimney.

By understanding why the smoke from your fireplace may fill your house and taking the necessary steps to address any issues with airflow or blockages, you can enjoy the warmth and ambiance of a crackling fire without dealing with smoke in your home. 

Tips For Preventing A Smoky Fireplace in Your Home

To reduce or prevent your fireplace from going up in smoke (pun intended), there are several easy steps you can take: 

• Utilize glass fireplace doors to control airflow.
• Perform regular chimney maintenance and inspections.
• Keep the damper open when a fire is lit. 
• Use exhaust fans, and get an outside air supply vent installed.

• Make sure your flue liner has been installed or replaced.
• Ensure the flue and damper work by burning newspaper inside the damper for a few seconds.
• Hire a certified chimney sweep to inspect your fireplace for damage and have the flue cleaned annually. 

These quick and easy tips can help you make the most of your fireplace this winter without worry!

Call PuroClean For Your Fire and Smoke Damage Restoration Needs

If your home has been damaged by smoke from a fireplace, contact PuroClean as soon as possible. Our team of certified professionals will work quickly to assess the damage and develop a tailored restoration plan to meet your needs. We specialize in smoke remediation and use advanced products and techniques to help restore your home’s air quality and remove any lingering odours. 

We offer 24/7 emergency services to help you get back on track and restore the air quality in your home!  If you’re struggling with smoke damage, don’t delay; contact PuroClean today! Visit our online office locator or call (877) 261-7876 today to find your local PuroClean office.