Now that the colder months are here, it’s time to prepare your chimney for cozy nights by the fire. However, sometimes you start a fire or open the fireplace only to find an unpleasant smell. At Clean Sweep, we regularly receive calls about strange and suspicious odors coming from chimneys and fireplaces.

What Are the Most Common Chimney Smells?

  1. Animals: If an animal unfortunately got trapped in your chimney and was unable to leave, it could leave behind a rotting or decaying odor. Even if you don’t notice a smell but you hear scratching, crying or scurrying from your chimney, it’s a sign that you have an animal stuck inside. Have the animal removed from the chimney if possible. If there doesn’t seem to be a live animal inside, the droppings, food, materials or deceased animals could all be behind the strange smell.
  2. Creosote: Dangerous creosote can lead to a sharp, smoke-like odor in your chimney. Homeowners often notice the smell during the summer months and forget about it by the time fall arrives, which can be a dangerous mistake. During your annual chimney sweeping, the creosote will be cleaned and your chimney won’t smell any longer.
  3. Water: If you notice a lingering musty or mildew odor, water could have leaked into your chimney. A leak can lead to serious structural damage to the exterior or interior of your chimney, so it should be inspected and repaired as quickly as possible. Because the interior of your chimney is damp and dark, it can rapidly lead to mold growth that can harm the air quality of your home and bother those with mold allergies.
  4. Leaves or Yard Debris: Moss, branches and other yard debris can all decompose in your chimney and also lead to a stale and rotting odor. If you don’t have a chimney cap and crown installed, debris is very common.

Get Rid of Chimney Smells with Clean Sweep Maryland

Clean Sweep Maryland has the professional equipment necessary to remove any amount of creosote from your chimney, along with performing repairs to your chimney, your liner or your insulation.  Call Clean Sweep Maryland today at 410-558-1111 for professional chimney sweep, dryer vent cleaning, air duct cleaning and gutter cleaning services designed to keep your home in wonderful condition and your family safe.