Outdoors the slightest wind can downdraft your fireplace and force smoke forward of the hearth. To reduce this, a “smoke shelf” must be designed into all wood burning fireplaces, your flue sizing must be calculated properly, and chimney height must be tall enough to encourage proper draw.
Do all fireplaces have a smoke shelf?
The throat, smoke shelf and smoke chamber are typically masonry, although the smoke chamber is not usually firebrick. Factory-built fireplaces do not usually have a smoke shelf or smoke chamber above the damper. It is, however, a standard part of most masonry fireplaces.
What is a smoke box in a fireplace?
The smoke chamber is the area above the fireplace firebox (where you build your fire) just below the flue. The purpose of the smoke chamber is to compress the byproducts of combustion into a smaller space (the flue inside the chimney) without causing back draft.
How does a fireplace smoke guard work?
Smoke guards and fireplace doors work by lowering the top of the fireplace opening, adding extra space for the smoke as it collects prior to passing through the damper. This solution often helps reduce or eliminate constant fireplace smoking.
Why does a chimney need a smoke shelf?
Located between the firebox and smoke chamber (see below), the smoke shelf’s job is to collect any rainwater or debris that may have entered the chimney. The smoke shelf also helps to prevent downdrafts from sending smoke and toxins into your home.
How big should a smoke shelf be?
The smoke chamber height should be 24 inches and the nominal flue size should be 12 inches by 12 inches. The height of the chimney using this flue liner should be 19 feet. You can sometimes solve a smoking-fireplace problem by making the chimney higher.
Can I add a blower to my wood burning fireplace?
Yes, you can add a fan/blower to most gas and wood fireplaces, inserts, and stoves. You will likely want a certified fireplace dealer to install your fan to ensure it is done correctly, is level, and doesn’t rattle. When shopping for a fireplace you will want to search for a unit that has the option for a blower.
What is the frame around a fireplace called?
The fireplace mantel or mantelpiece, also known as a chimneypiece, originated in medieval times as a hood that projected over a fire grate to catch the smoke. The term has evolved to include the decorative framework around the fireplace, and can include elaborate designs extending to the ceiling.
Where is the smoke shelf in a fireplace?
The smoke shelf is the area behind the damper that is nearly level. It is the bottom of the chimney. The smoke chamber is the sloping section of the fireplace above the damper and throat, but below the chimney flue. Typically, the sides and front of the smoke chamber slope.
How does smoke come out of a chimney?
Cool outside air travels down the flue, strikes the smoke shelf, mixes with warm air from inside the room or firebox, and returns up the chimney, taking fireplace smoke with it.
Why do I have smoke coming out of my fireplace?
Have a professional take a look to see if that’s the case. Chimney needs to be cleaned: Creosote build up in the chimney can reduce the the flow of exhaust gasses which can cause fireplace smoke and may also lead to a chimney fire. A shattered chimney flue can also cause drafting problems.
What does the bottom of a fireplace look like?
It is the bottom of the chimney. is the sloping section of the fireplace above the damper and throat, but below the chimney flue. Typically, the sides and front of the smoke chamber slope. The back of the smoke chamber is usually vertical. This varies.
