When it is summertime in Charleston, the weather can be very hot and humid. Every summer, Ashbusters gets quite a few calls from our customers who need our help with stinky chimneys. The most common cause of the unpleasant odors is creosote, which is worsened by humid weather. As the superior chimney company in the Charleston area, we have years of experience in dealing with this issue. We would like to tell you more about creosote odors and what we to do to solve this chimney problem.
What is creosote?
If you have a wood-burning fireplace or stove, chances are you have creosote deposits on the inner walls of your chimney. This compound develops naturally during the combustion process, and it not only has a strong, acrid odor, but it is also highly flammable. According to the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA), it is a leading cause of chimney fires. Typically black or brown in color, creosote varies in its appearance as it can be sticky and gummy, cracked and brittle, or slick and hardened. No matter what the creosote inside your chimney looks like, it should be removed at least once a year by a CSIA-certified chimney sweep.
How can Ashbusters help me with my stinky chimney?
If you are dealing with strong smells coming from your chimney, our chimney professionals can get your home smelling fresh and clean again. We have specially manufactured chimney deodorizers that can remove all of the creosote deposits. In order to prevent these unpleasant creosote odors from putting a sour note on your summer, we recommend that you schedule a chimney maintenance appointment with us annually.
What can I do to reduce the amount of creosote in my chimney?
The easiest way to decrease the amount of creosote in your chimney is to only burn seasoned firewood in your fireplace. This type of firewood has had at least six months to dry after it has been cut. When you try to burn wood with high moisture content, it produces more smoke at cooler temperatures. It also creates the perfect conditions for accelerated creosote development.
If you are dealing with a stinky chimney, Ashbusters can help. Contact us today to schedule an appointment for our professional chimney maintenance services. Our CSIA-certified chimney sweeps can get your home smelling fresh and clean again in no time!