When you have installed an outdoor fireplace, few things are better than enjoying the outdoors besides the warmth of the fire as the sun sets on another day. But when that fire starts smoking, there could a few reasons why.
Often, it’s a small matter that you can correct yourself. However, sometimes, it could be a symptom of a bigger problem, and should be checked out by a professional as soon as possible.
Here are some of the most common reasons for a smoking outdoor fire. If you’ve noticed your outdoor fire smoke, see if any of these apply to your situation.
Wet wood
It might sound obvious, but wood that hasn’t been dried out properly is the cause of a lot of smoky fires. Smouldering and hissing all suggest firewood with a high water content. This will stop your fire from creating sufficient heat to allow the chimney to draw well.
Damper or chimney cap problems
Check your damper or chimney cap. It should be opened up all the way. There might also be a rain cap at the top of the chimney that may need a look at. Get a professional to have a look and see what they suggest.
Chimney needs to be cleaned
If you’ve been using the fireplace for some time and it begins to smoke, it may require a clean. Indoor chimneys require a yearly clean, so it makes sense to check your outdoor one too. A buildup of creosote and reduce the flow of exhaust gases which can create smoke – and can lead to a chimney fire. Work on getting it done at the beginning of spring each year – before it undergoes heavy use in the summer.
Incorrectly built
If you have a niggling feeling that the people who carried out the installation of your outdoor fireplace may not have fitted it correctly, contact ELB Fireplaces and we can pay you a visit to check. This is well worth doing, as a badly installed fireplace can cause structural problems as well present a hazard to anyone nearby.
Fireplace installations require precise measurements and correct materials for a variety of functions. If the flue volume or fireplace opening is not right – it can cause a chain of problems, so a second opinion on whether your outdoor fireplace has been built correctly is well worth getting.
Outdoor temperature is too warm
If the outside climate is warm with no breeze, this could cause a billow of smoke. On a cold day, your fire will have a greater force – on a warm day, not so much. The greater the difference in temperature between the fire and outside, the better.
If you’re concerned about your fireplace, contact us at ELB Fireplaces and we can help you sort the problem out so you can enjoy a hazard-free outdoor fire all year round.
