Fireplaces are commonly used across the world to help heat interiors and bring a warm ambiance to a space. But like any appliance, they require maintenance and regular upkeep to help stay in optimal working condition.
Sometimes, a fireplace may cause a strange smell to infiltrate your space. Beyond the standard smoke smell, this odor might be different, and may be a cause for concern. But why might your fireplace smell like something other than smoke? SERVPRO® is Here to Help® provide more information, and hopefully prevent this from happening.
Common Types of Fireplaces
Fireplaces are used around the world to help heat interiors and bring a warm ambiance to a space. There are four common types of fireplaces:
- Wood Fireplace: These are popular because of their classic feel and the crackle and ambiance of burning real wood. Wood-burning fireplaces are generally less efficient than other types, and while all fireplaces need to be properly monitored and handled, there’s a definite risk of fire breaking out with this type. Make sure you have 1) a fire extinguisher on hand, 2) working smoke alarms, and 3) use the fireplace properly.
- Gas Fireplace: Typically less expensive than a wood-burning fireplace, gas fireplaces tend to be more energy efficient. You need a gas line for this type of fireplace, along with a chimney and firebox. These generally heat a space more efficiently than burning wood, but there’s a carbon monoxide risk, requiring specific sensors and carbon monoxide detectors.
- Ethanol Fireplace: This fireplace burns ethanol to create a real flame. While this doesn’t produce a lot of heat, it’s optimal for modern spaces or different types of designs, since you can pour the ethanol directly into it. It doesn’t produce smoke, so ventilation isn’t needed.
- Electric Fireplace: An electric fireplace is popular for those looking to experience the heat and aura of a traditional fireplace without the flame. These fireplaces use a fan and coils to distribute heat. Relatively affordable and often portable, electric fireplaces produce the least amount of heat.
5 Reasons Your Fireplace May Have a Strange Odor
Whether the smell is smoky, or just plain strange, there are some common reasons your fireplace might be letting off a strange smell:
- Creosote buildup. Creosote is left over when wood is burned and it can build up in your chimney. It creates a very strong smoky smell.
- Pressure imbalance. This can happen when your kitchen or bathroom exhaust fan is on, or perhaps the water heater or dryer is running. These appliances push air out of your property, pulling air down the chimney, bringing in a smoky smell.
- A fault. If a fault appears in your flue or chimney, the odor may be leaking from that area itself, rather than the hearth.
- Dust buildup. Household dust, pollen, or pet dander can accumulate in a fireplace, and the smell is very noticeable the first time you use the fireplace each season. This is a normal, temporary smell that should quickly fade away. If it lingers, you may need professional inspection.
- Debris. Organic debris, or even a dead animal, can get lodged in the chimney.
Is it Typical for Your Home to Smell Like Smoke After Using a Fireplace?
Although fireplaces can produce the comforting scent, crackle, and warmth of a fire, if your home or property continues to smell like smoke, sometimes days or even weeks after it was used, this may be worth investigating.
Regardless of the scent, if you notice anything unusual about your fireplace, whether that is related to smell or functionality, it is best to call a fireplace professional to do a thorough inspection. When it comes to unusual scents and air quality in your home, business, or other property, carbon monoxide is something to stay mindful of, so it is better to be prepared and proactive.
Fire Damage? SERVPRO is Here to Help
SERVPRO offers a robust seven-step fire damage restoration process, for any size job or part of your property. Whether you experience fire damage from a chimney in your residential or commercial property, SERVPRO technicians across North America arrive to each project with the proper tools, equipment, and knowledge to help return your space to pre-fire condition. Available 24/7, SERVPRO operates year-round.
There are 2350 SERVPRO locations in the United States and Canada. Whether you experience fire damage in the middle of the night, on a holiday, weekend, or more, your local team of professionals can be there whenever you need them. SERVPRO was established in 1967 and has grown to become the #1 choice in fire and water cleanup and restoration*. So, when you need cleanup, restoration, and reconstruction assistance, know we are always here to help.
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