License # 976438 Call: 619-593-4020 Email: info@chimneysweepsinc.com
(619) 593-4020

Solutions for a Smelly Chimney

Does your chimney smell bad? Is it beginning to bother you? Are you not sure why it smells or what to do about it? Chimney Sweep Inc. of Lakeside, CA, has been helping our customers solve smelly chimney issues since 1985. We know the causes, and we know the treatments and solutions for a smelly chimney.

solutions for a smelly chimney flue in Lakeside CA and Poway CA

Why Does a Chimney Smell?

Any strong odor inside a chimney flue can filter down into your home. The most common causes of chimney odors are:

  • Excess creosote and soot in the flue
  • Leaves and twigs from nearby trees that have gotten into the chimney
  • Moisture from a chimney leak
  • Dead squirrels, rats, birds and other small animals
  • Rotted nesting materials that some animals leave behind

How We Address Chimney Odors?

There are a wide variety of solutions to address chimney odors & our Sweeps/Technicians specialize in all of them.

Discover What’s Causing the Smell

A licensed chimney inspection will quickly determine why your chimney smells.

Discover How the Problem Started

Causes might include a water leak, a missing or damaged chimney cap, not having the chimney cleaned regularly, an animal infestation and more.

Clean the Chimney Flue

Resolving a smelly chimney almost always involves a thorough chimney sweep or cleaning of the chimney flue. This will remove the substances that are causing the odors.

Chimney sweep and chimney repair for a smelly chimney in Poway CA and North Park CA

Take Steps To Prevent the Problem in the Future

Once we understand what caused the smells, it’s time to prevent the problem from recurring. Strategies might include:

  • Adding or repairing a chimney cap to keep rain, debris and small animals out of the flue
  • Repairing a damaged chimney crown or chimney flashing
  • Repairing cracks in the chimney masonry
  • Waterproofing the chimney

Show You Some Strategies You Can Implement on Your Own

There’s a lot you can do to prevent or reduce chimney odors and find solutions for a smelly chimney.

How you Burn Fires:
Burn only dry wood, which creates less smoke, which creates less smelly creosote.

Annual Maintenance:
Schedule a chimney sweep and inspection once a year.

Personal Inspections:
Periodically perform a visual inspection of your chimney cap, chimney crown, masonry and chimney flashing. Report any damage you spot.

Identify Air-flow Issues:
Be aware that AC units and exhaust fans can draw air down through your chimney, bringing odors with it.

Use Your Damper:
Make sure your fireplace damper is closed completely when you’re not using the fireplace.

Top-sealing Damper:
Consider adding a top-sealing chimney damper at the top of your chimney to reduce air movement.

3 leveled chimney inspections available in San Clemente & Escondido CA

When in Doubt, Call the Professionals

Chimney Sweep Inc. has seen just about every kind of chimney-related problem imaginable. For more than 30 years, we’ve been the trusted name in the greater San Diego region for chimney sweeping, chimney repairs and chimney inspections. Whatever is wrong with your chimney – including odor problems – we have the tools and experience to fix it.

Chimney Sweeping in Southern California

When it’s time for a professional chimney sweep, Chimney Sweep Inc. is here to help.

We’re your local chimney experts in Lakeside CA, Oceanside CA, and the greater San Diego CA, area. We serve Coronado CA, Escondido CA, La Mesa CA, and San Clemente CA, along with North Park CA, Alpine CA, Solana Beach CA, and other communities throughout East San Diego County.

Speak with a chimney and fireplace expert today at (619) 593-4020 or request an appointment online.