There’s nothing as comforting as a fire on a chilly evening. But as relaxing as its warmth can be, a fire in the hearth can also impact your health. Typically, the chimney allows harmful byproducts to exit your home. However, if it’s been a while since you’ve had a chimney cleaning, the stack may be clogged, resulting in inadequate ventilation. Here are a few examples of how a clogged chimney affects your air quality. 

Combustion Particles

As materials combust, they release particles. Particles that don’t exit the chimney can circulate through your home and enter the lungs, where they may cause respiratory difficulties. These and other pollutants can exacerbate or cause allergy symptoms, bronchitis, or asthma. The type of fuel you burn can reduce this issue. Hardwoods like beech, oak, and maple are typically less problematic than softwoods because they burn hotter. However, you should also schedule regular fireplace and chimney cleaning to ensure smoke can exit effectively.

Hazardous Gases

Combustion particles aren’t the only dangerous output from your fireplace. Burning firewood also releases poisonous gases like nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and carbon monoxide (CO). NO2 exposure can irritate the eyes, nose, and throat; exacerbate respiratory issues such as asthma; and lead to infections. CO is an odorless, colorless gas present in many places in the home, including appliances such as dryers and HVAC systems. However, it is usually contained to keep it from circulating through the house. A dirty chimney, however, can result in ineffective ventilation, causing the gas to enter the home. Symptoms of CO poisoning are similar to the flu and can include dizziness, weakness, fatigue, headaches, and nausea. Eventually, exposure can result in unconsciousness or death. NO2 is less dangerous, though still harmful, and can cause throat irritation and respiratory infections, as well as lung diseases like emphysema. Every home with a chimney should have a CO detector and schedule chimney cleaning twice a year.

If you live in the Greater Cincinnati area, turn to Charlie’s Chimney Sweeps and Masonry. Since 1996, they have been the community’s go-to service for fireplace and chimney cleanings, inspections, and repairs. From wood stoves to gas fireplaces, if it involves a chimney, these professionals service it. Call (513) 553-0229 to schedule service or visit their website to learn more about how they can help.