If you notice an odor in your kitchen, the first thing to do is clean out the refrigerator and freezer. Often, it is caused by an expired product hiding deep towards the back. The odor can make your entire kitchen borderline unusable, and removing it is a massive relief.
This logic applies not only to your kitchen and refrigerator but your living room and chimney as well. An odor can ruin your living/family room, and the cause might be deep into your chimney system. Luckily, we can help, as C&C Chimney has a team of professionally trained and certified technicians ready to help! Read below to learn more about chimney odors and their causes and preventions. Then give us a call today at (918) 396-8296 to schedule an appointment!
What Causes Stinky Chimneys?
There are a variety of different causes for chimney odors. Animals love residing in your chimney because it is a dark and safe place where they can safely nest to escape predators. An unknown chimney odor is often caused by an animal in your chimney such as a bird, squirrel, raccoon, or other small critters. Without regular inspections, their nesting materials, feces, or in a worst-case scenario, their corpse, could remain in your chimney and stink up your entire home. Another common cause of a chimney odor is creosote buildup. Creosote is a natural byproduct of burning wood, and without regular cleanings, it can buildup in your flue over time. Creosote buildup smells like burning asphalt and is amplified by the heat and humidity of summer.
A dank or damp smell emanating from your chimney is caused by moisture. Your chimney and masonry are designed to withstand the constant beating from the elements. However, it deteriorates over time and allows water to enter the system. Water can also cause mold and mildew growth, which is hazardous to your family’s health. A final cause of odors is improper drafting. If your chimney cannot properly draft, smoke and gas blows back into your home and creates an unpleasant smell. Drafting is often caused by an improperly sized flue, which must be fixed by a professional chimney technician.
These are not the only generators of chimney odors. There are many unique circumstances that could cause an odor, and the cause is only determinable by a professionally trained and certified chimney professional.
How Do I Prevent and Fix a Stinky Chimney?
The easiest way to find the source of an odor is with a professional examination of your chimney. The CSIA recommends annual chimney service such as inspections, sweepings, and maintenance to keep your system operating at peak capacity and efficiency. This inspection also help eliminate and prevent odors, as our professional technicians identify any causes or potential causes and take the necessary course of action. For example, we can remove any creosote buildup and animal remains during a sweeping.
Another way to prevent odors is to make sure each component if your chimney is in working condition. We will notice any damaged or broken parts during an inspection and make any necessary repairs. For example, the chimney cap rests at the top of your chimney and closes off the top. It is the first line of defense against preventing moisture and animal entry, which are often two main causes of chimney odors. If your cap is missing or damaged, we will replace it!
Schedule an Appointment Today!
Since 2006, we have provided the Tulsa, OK area with excellent chimney service, and we can’t wait to help you! Don’t wait any longer to clear your home and chimney of that rank odor. Give us a call at (918) 396-8296 or schedule an appointment online today!