Fireplaces, Heating Stoves, Flues and Chimneys - Fireplace Odors
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08-28-00, 04:09 PM
Just bought a house with a fireplace.
It's still summer, so the fireplace can't have been used in months.
However, there is a lingering smell coming from the fireplace of burnt wood.
The prior owner swore that they had the chimmney swept within the past year.
Was this a load of bull and do I need to have the whole thing swept?
Should I first try cleaning out the lower portion of the fireplace myself?
Any thoughts/suggestions?
It's still summer, so the fireplace can't have been used in months.
However, there is a lingering smell coming from the fireplace of burnt wood.
The prior owner swore that they had the chimmney swept within the past year.
Was this a load of bull and do I need to have the whole thing swept?
Should I first try cleaning out the lower portion of the fireplace myself?
Any thoughts/suggestions?
08-29-00, 06:15 PM
Dan, it may have been cleaned properly. The natural draft can reverse in summer. Any traces of creosote, moisture, dead animals,etc. will be brought into the house. Call a Certified Swep and inquire about a Top Sealing Damper. This will seal out the air as well as protect the flue from water, critters, etc. and seal in heat during the winter.
Never attempt to clean it yourself.
Bob H.
Never attempt to clean it yourself.
Bob H.