One of the main concerns for homeowners installing a fireplace is learning how to avoid excessive smoke—since it can be bothersome both inside your home and to neighbors.
First and foremost: it is not normal for a fireplace to produce smoke inside your home. If this happens, it means the combustion process is not correct—whether due to improper wood burning, air regulation issues, or chimney draft—and it needs to be addressed. Here’s how to resolve it:
How to prevent your fireplace from producing excessive smoke
Use suitable Wood. Make sure it is thoroughly dry (no moisture), because wet wood generates excessive smoke as the water evaporates. It also causes soot to cling to the glass. Avoid resinous woods (e.g. pine), which produce more smoke when ignited.
Keep the chimney draft clean. An insufficient draft or heavy residue negatively affects the fireplace’s correct operation. It’s recommended to have the chimney swept one to two times per year, depending on usage.
Follow proper ignition procedure. If you close the door or air vents too quickly after lighting, you block the oxygen needed for combustion. The resulting smoke will dirty the glass and cause inefficiency.
By following these recommendations, you will ensure correct combustion, avoid excessive smoke, maintain cleaner glass, and prevent unpleasant odors.
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