Resolving Smelly Chimney Problems

Name: Anderson's Chimney & Masonry Service
Address: 207 Walnut Alley, New Cumberland, PA, 17070, US
Telephone: (717) 975-3526

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Moisture From A Leak

Chimney leaks can originate in various places throughout the system. If water is coming in because of damage to the chimney cap, chimney liner or masonry, it can eventually cause strong musty odors and worsen the natural odor of existing creosote.

Fixing the leak with chimney cap repair (or installation, if you don’t have a cap), liner repair or relining, and masonry work will keep the water out. A leaky chimney is a serious problem that can lead to much bigger issues than a smelly chimney.

Debris & Nests

Without a protective chimney cap, tree debris and small animals can enter the chimney. Leaves, twigs and nesting materials can all begin to rot and give off strong odors. When mixed with water from a leak or the natural condensation in the flue, the odors can be much worse.

A proper chimney cap will keep debris out of your flue. Debris not only leads to a smelly chimney, but it can also narrow the flue and cause smoke and carbon monoxide to enter your home.

Dead Animals

Certain animals might be unable to get out of the flue once they get in. Eventually, they will die. The odors this can cause are often enough to make people in the home not even want to be in the home. Chimney caps prevent animal intrusion.

Making The Problem Worse

There are a few things that can worsen the effects of a smelly chimney.

HVAC system: HVAC systems pull household air, and that includes air from the chimney. If that air is full of odors, the odors will move into your home.

Exhaust fans: Fans in bathrooms, kitchens and windows that draw air can pull smells out of the fireplace. Try turning all fans off and see if it helps.

Airtight house: Many modern homes are built quite airtight. This lack of air can cause odors to move downward in a chimney instead of upward. If this is a problem in your home, try cracking a window near the fireplace.

Help For Your Smelly Chimney

We’re here to help you prevent and get rid of chimney odors. No matter what’s causing the problem, our certified chimney technicians have the right solution.

Anderson’s Chimney & Masonry Service works throughout Carlisle, PA, Harrisburg, PA, Central, PA, Gettysburg, PA, Hanover, PA, Shrewsbury, PA, Ephrata, PA, Chambersburg, PA, Rion Lion, PA, Shippensburg, PA, and other Pennsylvania communities.

Speak with a chimney and fireplace expert by calling (717) 975-3526. You can also use our handy contact form.

National Standards

As certified sweeps, we are held to national standards of the NFPA. NFPA 211 for wood burning, NFPA 54 for gas appliances and NFPA 31 for oil appliances. All of our work is always conducted professionally and in compliance with these and any other local government codes that apply. Our professional opinions will be based on our experience and education.