Why Is There Drafty Air Coming From My Fireplace?

October 2, 2023

A cozy fireplace can be a wonderful addition to any home. However, if you notice drafty air coming from your fireplace, it can be a cause for concern. In this blog post, we will explore the potential reasons behind the draft and discuss some solutions to help you eliminate the issue and enjoy a warmer and more efficient fireplace.

1. Damaged or missing chimney cap:

One of the most common reasons for drafty air coming from your fireplace is a damaged or missing chimney cap. A chimney cap acts as a barrier, preventing downdrafts and keeping debris, rain, and animals out of your chimney. When it is damaged or missing, it allows outside air to enter the chimney and flow into your home, causing that drafty feeling.

Solution: It is important to inspect your chimney cap regularly and replace it if necessary. A professional chimney technician can install a new chimney cap that fits properly and seals off your chimney, preventing any air leaks.

2. Inadequate chimney damper:

Another reason for drafty air could be an inadequate or malfunctioning chimney damper. The chimney damper is a metal or ceramic plate that you can open or close to control the airflow in your fireplace. If it is not properly sealed, air can easily escape through the chimney and create drafts.

Solution: Inspect your chimney damper for any damage or signs of wear. Make sure it can be fully closed and that the seal is tight. If the damper is not functioning correctly, it may need repair or replacement. Contact a professional chimney sweep for assistance.

3. Cold air infiltration through the fireplace:

Older fireplaces are often not well-insulated, which means that cold air from the outside can easily infiltrate your home through gaps and cracks in the fireplace structure. This can result in a drafty feeling, especially during colder months.

Solution: Consider installing a fireplace insert or a fireplace draft stopper to prevent cold air from infiltrating your home. A fireplace insert is a wood-burning stove that fits into your existing fireplace, providing better insulation and efficiency. A draft stopper is a device that can be inserted into the chimney when the fireplace is not in use, creating a seal and preventing drafts.

4. Insufficient insulation or weatherstripping:

In some cases, the drafty air may be coming from gaps in the surrounding walls or flooring near the fireplace. Insufficient insulation or weatherstripping can allow cold air to seep in, creating drafts and increasing energy consumption.

Solution: Inspect the walls, floors, and windows near your fireplace for any gaps or cracks. Use weatherstripping or caulking to seal any openings and improve insulation. Additionally, adding insulation to the walls or floors around the fireplace can help minimize drafts.

5. Negative air pressure in the home:

Another cause of drafty air coming from your fireplace could be negative air pressure in your home. Negative air pressure occurs when the air being exhausted from your home (through ventilation systems or appliances) exceeds the amount of air being brought in, causing outside air to be pulled in through any available openings, such as the chimney.

Solution: To address negative air pressure, make sure your home is properly ventilated. Open windows or use exhaust fans to bring in fresh air and equalize the pressure. It may also help to install a makeup air system, which brings in outside air to balance the pressure and reduce drafts.

Conclusion:

If you notice drafty air coming from your fireplace, it is essential to identify the underlying cause and take appropriate measures to eliminate the issue. Whether it’s a damaged chimney cap, inadequate chimney damper, cold air infiltration, insufficient insulation, or negative air pressure, there are solutions available to help you enjoy a warm and efficient fireplace. Consult with a professional chimney expert or HVAC technician who can assess your specific situation and provide guidance on the best course of action. With proper maintenance and improvements, you can ensure a comfortable and draft-free environment around your fireplace.

Got Questions? Let Us Help!

Alaska Fire and Flue LLC has been serving Eagle River and the Mat-Su Borough since 2005 and recently opened a 2000 sq ft showroom at 6445 Blue Lupine Dr in Palmer. We are your full-service dealer for wood stoves, fireplaces, chimney, and all the accessories to keep you burning wood all winter. At Alaska Fire and Flue LLC, we carry a diverse range of stoves to meet your heating needs. Come into our showroom and view our gas, pellet, Toyo, oil, and wood burning stoves. We are committed to providing top of the line service and repair for any type and style of stove, chimney, and fireplace. Contact us today for your new heating system or just to ask any technical questions that you may have!

Categorised in: Fireplace