External Factors Affecting Draft

It is also possible that your chimney is working correctly and the problem is coming from the home or the room the fireplace is in instead. The chimney uses the stack effect to function, but if there is another appliance in the room pulling air outside as well, this may cause draft problems as well. For example, an air vent could be the culprit. If an air vent such as a central vacuum, clothes dryer or a forced air furnace is in the same room as the fireplace and they are both working at the same time, this can cause problems as they are both sucking air out of the room. In this case, the fireplace may instead back up and release unwanted smoke into the room instead of dispelling these gases outside.

A new home with tightly sealed walls may also have problems replacing the air that leaves through the top of the chimney. The air that leaves through the top of the chimney along with the gases and smoke must be replaced by something and if the house is too tight and new air cannot be let in, then a back draft will occur. Typically leaving a window open will resolve this problem immediately. Strong wind may also cause similar problems where the smoke may be pushed back down the chimney and into the room and not allowed to exit from the top.

Don’t Burn Green
Burning the correct fuel for your fire is always important, especially to avoid draft problems. If you use green or wet wood, then your fires may not burn hot enough for the air to rise and get replaced by cooler air. This will then cause draft problems and the smoke and gases will not be able to exit the room.

If the problems still persist, here are some measures to take.

1. A good first place to start is to call your local certified chimney sweep. Your chimney inspector will recommend any corrective actions to be taken – the small fee will be well worth the peace of mind this inspection will provide.

2. Before you start the fire, place the metal fire grate as far back against the chimney wall as it will go.

3. Purchase and utilize a protective metal screen to shield your hearth form flying sparks and embers.

4. Check to make sure that your damper is open when the fireplace is in use.

5. Turn off all other air vents in the same room as the fireplace when it is in use.

6. If your home is less than 25 years old, open a window when a fire is going in case the home is sealed too tightly.

7. For a more drastic measure, increase the height of the chimney to get more draft. This is not always an appropriate fix as there is a limit to this as frictional forces may hinder the amount of height you can add.

While you may figure out how to alleviate most of the excess smoke in your home on your own, because of the heath affects associated with a back draft it is always advised to still consult your chimney professional to ensure your home is safe. With your new expertise on chimneys and how to prevent harmful combustion gases from entering your home you no longer have to worry when you start a fire. Just sit back, relax, and enjoy the soothing crackle of the fire.

All these reminders are best practiced when you are also assured of having a reliable company at your side. Contact Local Chimney Sweep Cleaning today for Chimney Cleaning Bethel Island and repairing.

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