Troubleshooting Common Chimney Issues

A fireplace is a beloved feature in many New England homes, providing warmth and comfort during the long winter months. But like any complex system, over time, problems can develop that affect its safety and efficiency.

At Admiralty Chimney, we help homeowners identify and resolve fireplace and chimney issues before they become safety hazards or lead to costly repairs. Below are some of the most common problems we see--and what you can do about them.

1. Smoke Coming Into the House

What’s going on?

If smoke enters your home instead of going up the chimney, it’s usually a drafting problem.

Common causes:

• Creosote buildup (narrows the flue)

• Blocked chimney (nests, debris, snow, or ice)

• Cold air trapped in the flue

• Improper chimney height or design

Troubleshooting tips:

• Make sure the damper is fully open before lighting a fire

• Crack a window slightly to improve airflow

• Warm the flue by lighting a rolled newspaper before starting a fire

If smoke problems persist, contact us, and we’ll come take a look at your system.

2. Excessive Creosote Buildup

What’s going on?

Creosote is a black, tar-like substance that forms when wood doesn’t burn completely. In New England’s extended burning season, creosote can accumulate quickly.

Why it matters:

• It’s highly flammable

• It reduces chimney efficiency

• It’s the leading cause of chimney fires

Troubleshooting tips:

• Burn only seasoned, dry firewood

• Avoid smoldering or low-temperature fires

• Schedule annual chimney cleanings

Creosote cannot be safely removed without professional tools, so don’t try to scrape it yourself.

3. Chimney Leaks and Water Damage

What’s going on?

Water is one of the most damaging elements for chimneys, especially with New England’s freeze-thaw cycles.

Common entry points:

• Cracked or missing chimney crown

• Damaged flashing

• Porous or deteriorating masonry

• Missing chimney cap

Troubleshooting tips:

• Look for water stains on ceilings or walls near the chimney

• Check for rusted dampers or firebox components

• Install a chimney cap to keep rain and snow out

Ignoring water damage can lead to major structural repairs.  Contact our team to schedule an inspection and determine the best course of action.

4. Cracked or Deteriorating Masonry

What’s going on?

Your brick-and-mortar chimney expands and contracts with temperature fluctuations.

Why it matters:

Over time, this can cause cracks, loose bricks, or crumbling mortar joints.

Troubleshooting tips:

• Inspect your chimney exterior each spring and fall

• Look for white staining (efflorescence), which signals moisture issues

• Address small cracks early before they worsen

Schedule any needed masonry repairs during the spring and summer months, when temperatures are warm enough for the mortar to cure properly.

5. Fireplace Won’t Stay Lit

What’s going on?

If your fire keeps going out, airflow is usually the culprit.

Possible causes:

• Closed or partially closed damper

• Blocked flue

• Negative air pressure in the home

• Oversized firebox or undersized chimney

Troubleshooting tips:

• Confirm the damper is fully open

• Use dry kindling and proper fire-building techniques

• Avoid running kitchen or bathroom exhaust fans while starting a fire

Persistent issues should be evaluated by a chimney professional. Contact our office to schedule an appointment. 

6. Strange Odors From the Fireplace

What’s going on?

Fireplace odors are common in humid New England summers or after heavy rain.

Typical causes include:

• Creosote mixing with moisture

• Animal nesting materials

• Poor ventilation

Troubleshooting tips:

• Keep the damper closed when the fireplace isn’t in use

• Install a chimney cap

• Schedule a cleaning if odors linger

>Related Reading: What’s that smell? Fireplace odor causes and solutions.

When DIY Troubleshooting Isn’t Enough

While some chimney problems can be spotted early by homeowners, most are identified by experienced professionals with the proper training and equipment. Annual chimney inspections are not just recommended; they’re essential for safety, especially in wood-burning homes.

Admiralty Chimney proudly serves homeowners throughout Southern New Hampshire and Northern Massachusetts with:

• Chimney cleanings and inspections

• Masonry repairs

• Chimney waterproofing

• Chimney caps 

• Chimney linings 

Keep Your Home Safe and Warm This Season

If you’ve noticed any of the issues above, or if it's been over a year since your last chimney cleaning and inspection, contact Admiralty Chimney today. A well-maintained chimney provides a safer and more efficient burning season.

Chimney Cleanings and Inspections in Southern NH & Northern MA

Admiralty Chimney is a trusted provider of chimney maintenance and repair services for homeowners throughout Southern New Hampshire and Northern Massachusetts. Our commitment to quality workmanship and service is reflected in our outstanding Google reviews and our A+ Better Business Bureau rating.

Can Your Fireplace Get TOO HOT?

When temperatures plummet in New England, there’s nothing like a warm fire to take the chill off. But can your fireplace get too hot? Yes. This is called over-firing, and it can damage your fireplace or even cause a chimney fire. Here are the causes and signs of over-firing, along with how to prevent it.

Causes of over-firing:

1. Too much fuel: You don’t need to fill every square inch of your firebox with wood. Most standard fireplaces accommodate 2 to 3 logs measuring 3 to 6 inches in diameter and 16 to 18 inches in length. Once you have a good fire going, add one log at a time to maintain steady heat. 

   
   

2. Too much oxygen:  While oxygen is essential for a strong, efficient fire, too much air can cause it to burn too quickly, reducing heat output and increasing wear on your fireplace and chimney. 

   NOTE: Air-pumping bellows should only be used with a stagnant fire.

3. Burning the wrong materials: Use only seasoned hardwood (oak, maple, ash, or birch) with a 15-20% moisture content, as it burns more predictably and at a safer temperature.

>Related Reading: 8 Things You Should Never Burn in Your Fireplace

Signs that your fireplace is too hot:

Recognizing the signs of over-firing can help prevent damage and keep your home and family safe:

• Loud roaring sounds similar to a blowtorch or a freight train

• Flaking, cracked, or broken firebricks

• Strong metallic burning odors

• Glowing red dampers, grates, or doors

• Warping or deformed metal parts

• Sparks or embers shooting up the flue

Preventing over-firing:

• Only burn seasoned hardwood.

• Follow the manufacturer's guidelines regarding airflow settings and the recommended size and amount of wood.

• Install a heat shield or hood to direct heat away from TVs or mantels.

• Use a hearth thermometer to ensure the area surrounding your fireplace remains below 150°F. (For specific temperature recommendations, read the manufacturer’s guidelines.

A Note About Fireplace & Chimney Maintenance: To ensure your fireplace and chimney function safely and efficiently, schedule an annual cleaning and inspection with our CSIA-certified team.

Chimney Cleanings and Inspections in Southern NH & Northern MA

Admiralty Chimney is a trusted provider of chimney maintenance and repair services for homeowners throughout Southern New Hampshire and Northern Massachusetts. Our commitment to quality workmanship and service is reflected in our outstanding Google reviews and our A+ Better Business Bureau rating.

Fireplace & Chimney Safety Reminders

Before you kick off the holiday season, we encourage you to review these fireplace and chimney safety reminders with your family. A little preparation goes a long way in keeping your home warm and safe this winter.

1. Schedule a chimney cleaning and inspection.

If you haven’t done so already, schedule your annual chimney cleaning and inspection so we can check for creosote buildup, cracks, blockages, or other hazards that could make your fireplace unsafe. Starting the season with a clean, well-maintained chimney not only protects your home but also helps your fireplace operate more efficiently.

2. Only burn seasoned firewood.

Fresh-cut or damp wood produces heavy smoke and accelerates creosote buildup in the chimney. Stick with well-seasoned hardwoods—such as oak, birch, or maple—for a hotter, cleaner burn that helps keep your chimney healthier throughout the winter.

3. Keep holiday décor at a safe distance.

Garlands, stockings, and other festive decorations look great around the hearth, but they should never be too close to the flames. Keep all décor at least three feet away to prevent accidental ignition.

4. Toss—don’t burn— your wrapping paper.

Wrapping paper burns too quickly and can send embers up the flue, potentially igniting creosote deposits. Dyed and inked paper can also release harmful fumes. Toss your gift wrap in the trash or recycling bin instead.

5. Never leave a fire unattended.

While it may be tempting to walk away from a dwindling fire, never leave your fireplace unattended until the flames and embers are fully extinguished. 

Tip:  Spread the coals with your fireplace tools so they cool more quickly.

6. Don’t overfill your firebox.

Well-meaning guests may try to add extra logs to “keep the fire going,” but too much fuel can create excessive heat and stress your chimney system. Overloaded fires increase creosote production and can damage brick or mortar. A moderate, controlled fire is safer and just as enjoyable.

7. Dispose of ashes safely.

Because fireplace ashes can retain heat well after the flames have disappeared, it’s essential to remove and store them properly. Reminder:  Always place ashes in a metal container with a tight-fitting lid. Be sure to store it away from your home, garage, or any other structure that could catch fire.

8. Test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors.

Test your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors to ensure they are working and replace batteries as needed. Keep a fire extinguisher within easy reach and make sure everyone at home knows its location and how to use it.

9. Get a fireplace screen.

If you don’t have one already, place a screen in front of your fireplace to contain sparks and keep children and pets a safe distance from the hearth.

Stay Warm and Safe This Season

Following these fireplace and chimney safety tips will help keep your family and guests warm and safe this holiday season. If you have questions or need to schedule an annual chimney cleaning and inspection, contact our CSIA-certified chimney experts at Admiralty Chimney. We proudly serve homeowners in Southern New Hampshire and Northern Massachusetts.