Homeowners are accustomed to diagnosing a host of problems in their houses. From leaky faucets to buckled floors and everything in between there is no telling the amount of maintenance your home may require over the years. Yet, some homeowners are often stumped when it comes to troubleshooting problems dealing with their chimneys. Because chimneys are often hidden inside the structure of the home, problems go undetected or ignored for long periods of time. If you have noticed an odor coming from your chimney, a variety of culprits could be causing the problem.
Troubleshooting Chimney Odors
One of the most common causes of chimney odor is creosote. Creosote is a build-up of soot and other materials left behind when your chimney is used regularly. Creosote can create a musty odor, especially in the hot summer months. Another common cause of odor is moisture that may be causing must and mildew. If your chimney is not properly capped or the fireplace damper has been left open during wet weather, moisture could be causing a musty odor to escape from your chimney.
One of the more unpleasant causes of odor from inside your chimney is when a pest or bird has made their home inside your chimney and died. If the smell is more than just a musty odor, you may be dealing with a dead critter inside your chimney. Along these lines, leaves and other debris can rot inside a chimney that isn’t properly capped causing this odor as well.
Chimney Maintenance By CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps
CSIA certified chimney sweeps like those at Blue Sky Chimney Sweeps in South Carolina have experience dealing with all types of chimney odor and damage. The CSIA has extensive continuing education on chimney physics and what may be causing the odor in your chimney. Not only are our CSIA certified technicians familiar with what may be causing chimney odors we can also help with these common chimney complaints:
- Cross-over smoking
- Excessive smoking
- Pressure issues
- General performance issues
- Cold drafts
If not taken care of, chimney odors could lead to more costly damage such as masonry repair or a cracked/shifted chimney. A simple issue that goes ignored can lead to more costly repairs down the line. That is why it is so important to have your chimney inspected the second you notice any chimney odor.
If you have not had your chimney swept in over a year, or have noticed an odor seeping in your chimney you should contact your local professional chimney sweeping company. Having your chimney swept regularly can alleviate many of the culprits of chimney odor including creosote build-up and critter control. Similarly, when your chimney is swept it will also be inspected for any moisture exposure or faulty chimney capping that could be causing additional issues in your heating appliance.
Contact the professionals at Blue Sky Chimney Sweeps to help troubleshoot these problems and more for a clean, efficient and safe chimney all year long.