Hi all,

I mentioned in a previous post on this forum that I had my chimney repaired (including a new liner) when we moved into our home a year ago. I noticed a faint ashtray smell this spring, when the fireplace was not in use (yes, it was cleaned out). I surmised that the issue may have been an HVAC return I had re-positioned (so it wouldn't be blocked by furniture) drawing air down the chimney. So, I closed it, and bought a magnetic cover to see if that improved the situation-- it, kind of did...

What I mean is that now the smell isnt traveling through the house. BTW: flu is closed

So, yesterday was a ridiculously humid day, and quite hot. My living room (where the fireplace is located) stank more than ever. It was borderline unbearable. I did some googling, and I am wondering if I am dealing with downdraft? This seems to be worse when the AC is running. I am wondering if I have to figure out how to get air into this room...

One suggestion I read online involved adding a small amount of heat to the fireplace (great... in the summer...)... The suggestion was to use a votive candle. I tried this. I did notice that the flame liked to dance kind of toward my glass fireplace doors, vs up toward the (now open) flu. Unfortunately, the candle was scented, so I couldnt tell if it 'worked' or not. The smell of the candle certainly was all over

I suspect the the candle trick is for winter time issues... I dont think enough heat was generated to change the draft.

Anyway... This is becoming a pretty big issue for me. Wondering what to do next. Really appreciate any and all advice.

thanks!

-k

 

Growing up with two parents who were smokers, I can tell you for a fact, it is just because of the hot humid weather that the smell has gotten stronger. Maybe some frebreze would help?

 

Hi! Thanks for the reply

We tried air fresheners/didnt work. I am now pretty certain its more than just the odor.

I lit the scented candle again last night (open damper/closed glass doors).. Candle smell permeated the house.

I noticed the candle flame, again, 'leaning' toward the interior of the living room (vs 'stretching to the flu').

So, I tried opening two windows in that room. Candle (and ashtray) smell disappeared.

I am wondering if this has to do with the power attic vent.

 

I'd recommend calling Rockford Chimney Supply. I bought my chimney liner from them, they were very helpful to me and could probably recommend something for you too. Hope this helps.

 

Are you experiencing a temperature inversion outside ?

That ashtray smell bespeaks creosote, and with a new liner, the creosote is being re-humidified by the air from outside.

Is the Damper closed ?

 

I just found them and talked with them... They are recommending a cap with a pull chain. But I have to get up there and measure. I have heard mixed things about these--I'd hate to drop $500 on one and still have a problem

Assuming you mean is the temperature really hot outside and is it really cold inside--then yes

Damper is closed.

With a scented candle burning in the fireplace, and the window and flu open, the smell disappears-- not sure if that helps

Also, I noticed the smoke from the candle, when blown out, came back in to the room instead of up the chimney, when window closed

 

And, even with the Damper Closed, you're still experiencing a downdraft.

You have to get to know the cause of that; I doubt that the new Cap would seal the chimney better than your current Damper . . . . but who knows ?

Nothing like this was occurring BEFORE your chimney liner was installed ?

 

Bought the house last year, and fireplace was unusable (original terra cotta liner disintegrated)

The Chimney Supply place sales pitch is that the existing damper at best is metal-metal seal; at worst may be warped. This cap supposedly has a gasket that seals tight

https://www.rockfordchimneysupply.co...us-dmpr-cp.php

Yes! I suspect my attic fan is creating a vacuum. I am thinking about disabling it, but am not certain why the fan is there and what trouble I may get myself into by not letting it function