Why Is My Fireplace Smoking?

If you find yourself hacking in a haze of smoke every time you light your fireplace, there’s clearly an issue (or sometimes multiple issues) that needs addressing. And a fireplace that produces smoke inside your home isn’t just frustrating…it can be a pretty hazardous problem, as well. So, what’s likely causing the problems?

• Chimney Blockage or Obstruction: One of the most frequent reasons for smoke entering your living space is a blocked chimney. Debris (leaves, bird nests, animal nests, creosote, etc.) can obstruct airflow, and when the chimney is blocked, smoke cannot properly escape.
• Poor Draft or Negative Air Pressure: Fireplaces rely on a strong draft to function well and pull smoke outside. Negative air pressure inside the home, caused by things like too-tight insulation, exhaust fans running, or ventilation systems pulling air out faster than it can enter, can lead to smoke in your space.
• Cold Chimney & Downdrafts: When the chimney is cold (common in the winter months) the air column inside is heavier than the warm air inside your home. This can cause downdrafts, where cold air flows down the chimney, pushing smoke back inside. Warming up the chimney ahead of time should help.
• Improper Fireplace or Chimney Design: Unfortunately, incorrect chimney height, size, or shape can affect draft performance. If the chimney is too short or blocked by nearby trees or buildings, it may not create enough suction. Similarly, if the fireplace opening is too large or the flue too small, smoke can spill into the room. Have an expert look things over.
• Using Wet or Green Wood: Burning unseasoned or damp wood produces excessive smoke that can struggle to exit the chimney cleanly. Wet wood smolders, creates more creosote buildup, and overwhelms the draft, causing smoke to fill the room, so be sure your firewood has been properly seasoned.

I’m Noticing Unusual Smells in My Fireplace? Why?

Strange or unpleasant odors coming from your fireplace aren’t fun to deal with. Fireplaces are supposed to be beautiful centerpieces, not something you try to stay away from because of bad odors… Fortunately, most odor issues within a fireplace can be resolved.

The most common cause of fireplace odors? Creosote buildup.

Creosote – that tar-textured stuff that accumulates inside the flue – has a strong, smoky, and sometimes acrid odor. If creosote buildup is heavy, it can emit odors even when the fireplace isn’t in use. In addition to smelling bad, it’s a fire hazard, so book a sweeping right away to ensure your system operates as nicely and safely as possible.

Other potential causes for your chimney odors include:

• Mold growth. Moisture accumulation inside a damp or poorly ventilated chimney can lead to mold or mildew growth, producing musty, earthy smells
• Animal or pest invasion. Birds, squirrels, raccoons, and/or insects sometimes nest inside chimneys or fireplaces, bringing in foul odors reminiscent of decay or ammonia.
• Gas or propane leak. For gas fireplaces, the smell of rotten eggs or sulfur indicates a gas leak, which is dangerous and requires quick action – like leaving the area immediately and call for assistance.
• Improper burning practices. If you burn things like leaves, trash, or plastic, they release strong, unpleasant chemical odors (and can damage your flue).
• Burning wet wood. Wet firewood or damp ashes can produce musty or smoky smells that linger, so use properly seasoned wood and remove ashes regularly.

Your Lititz Fireplace Store: We’d Love To Help You Out

A few things you’ll notice about Lititz when you explore the town: a picturesque downtown, plenty of events and attractions to enjoy, and a welcoming and vibrant community spirit. In fact, it has often been recognized as one of the best small towns to live in America thanks to its warm atmosphere and high quality of life.

One of the things the area is best known for is being home to Wilbur Chocolate Factory & Museum. You definitely want to check out all the yummy offerings this spot has to offer! Or check out the many shops, boutiques, galleries, cafes, and more in Downtown Lititz. There’s plenty to do, see, and enjoy.

Is it sunny and warm out? Then, it’s a perfect day to explore Lititz Springs Park where you’ll find a natural spring, as well as walking paths, playgrounds, picnic areas, and a peaceful lake. And once you’ve worked up an appetite, visit Sturgis Pretzel House to sample some fresh products. Ready for a good time? Don’t miss the Annual Lititz Craft Beer Fest.

We love this area, and we’re happy to help ensure homeowners get the highest quality fireplace products available. Work with us to enjoy long-lasting models from trusted brands. We serve Ephrata, Neffsville, Warwick Township, Kissel Hill, and more!

We Pride Ourselves on Selling Quality Fireplace Products

Quality is at the core of everything we do, and we take pride in offering fireplace products that stand the test of time. From durable stoves to elegant fireplaces and essential accessories, each item is carefully selected to ensure your satisfaction and comfort with every passing season.

Trust us to provide expert guidance and reliable service – visit today and experience the difference that quality makes in your home.