Welcome to September where you’re not sure if you should wear a jacket or a pair of shorts. The seasons are beginning to transition and the warm Fall breeze will soon lose its strength and submit to cooler weather. Simply take sitting on the couch, near the fireplace. Regardless if its wood burning or gas, cool air makes its way down the chimney and into the fireplace, which ultimately comes into the home. It gives you that chilly feeling and you start to wonder why is cold air coming from the chimney. Let’s take a closer look.
Cold Air Coming from the Chimney
Cold air coming from the chimney can be an unpleasant experience, especially when it’s right after the summer heat. We’re just never ready to go back to the cold. But when that cold breeze hits, the first thing you wonder is ‘where is the cold air coming from. The chimney?” It can be something quite simple to fix, or it can be something more.
1. Chimney Damper
Did you forget to close the chimney damper? This first needs to be addressed as it is the most common issue. So, check that first! If you forgot to close the chimney damper, your problem may be solved. But if you still feel a cold breeze…
Call Superior Chimney at 877-244-6349. We’ll check the condition of the chimney damper. Sometimes the chimney damper can be stuck or no longer sealing properly. If the chimney damper needs to be replaced, our chimney technicians will show you pictures of the chimney damper, confirm the issue and recommend a solution.
2. Chimney Cap
Another reason for cold air coming in the chimney is either a missing chimney cap or a damaged chimney cap. As we know, when a chimney cap has problems, everything suffers. The chimney cap does the job of protecting the chimney opening or the flue from downdrafts. If you stand outside and look up at the chimney, make sure there is a chimney cap. If the chimney cap is not on straight, then it may need to be repaired or replaced. If the chimney cap is non-existent, then a new chimney cap needs to be installed.
3. Chimney Flue Liner
A chimney flue liner is a great way to control backdrafts, or reduce / eliminate cold air coming into your home. Some homes still have clay tiles. Although it helped back in the day, clay tiles do deteriorate over time. If you don’t have a chimney flue liner, it is best to get one. Here’s a quick list of benefits to a chimney flue liner:
- Defines a clear path for smoke and gases to exit the home
- Ensures proper draft when properly sized
- Keeps the gases existing the home warmer so they quickly exit the home reducing the amount of creosote and moisture from the home
- Reduce carbon monoxide risk
- Prevent fire hazards!
Now that you know the 3 Ways you can control the cold air coming into your home, have a chimney technician come check it out to ensure you’ll have a warm and safe Fall and Winter season. Contact us today at 877-244-6349 to schedule your appointment.
