Common Chimney Myths: Debunked

Myth: All Fireplaces Offer Efficient Heat

Reality: Fireplaces do bring warmth, both in terms of temperature and ambiance. While heating efficiency exists on a spectrum, however, traditional open fireplaces are not highly efficient heating sources. 

Why? Because a fair bit of heat is lost up the chimney.

However, modern fireplace inserts and gas fireplaces are designed with efficiency in mind, using advances in combustion technology to pour heat back into your living space and minimize heat loss. 

And that open hearth? Don’t lament its presence! It still adds value to your home in the character and function it serves in your space. If you’re after a boost in efficiency, though, your open fireplace can be retrofitted with an insert that will bring together the best of both worlds – the charm of your traditional fireplace with the convenience and efficiency of modern heating technology.

Myth: Birds in the Chimney Bring Good Luck

Reality: In folklore, the presence of birds nesting in chimneys is sometimes seen as a sign of good luck. In reality? Wildlife guests, including birds, can cause some serious problems.

Birds and other animals can obstruct the chimney flue with their nesting materials and other debris, leading to ventilation issues, smoke backdrafts, and potential blockages that increase fire risks. Animals can be noisy, which bothers some homeowners. They can also become trapped in chimneys and pass away inside, which creates issues with blockage… and smell.

You don’t need to be an unwitting host, however. A well-fitting, properly installed chimney cap should keep animals and debris out of your chimney and save your system from the damage they can cause.

Sometimes, Tennessee homes play host to chimney swifts – a federally protected bird species that roosts in vertical spots like chimneys. If you have chimney swifts nesting in your chimney, the nests can’t be removed until the fledglings have left the nest.

Myth: Chimneys Are Self-Cleaning

Reality: We wish our whole homes were self-cleaning! 

Unfortunately, just as those dishes in the sink won’t do themselves, neither will your chimney stay clean all on its own. Combustion can be a messy process, and over time soot, creosote, and other debris can accumulate inside the chimney flue.

A dirty chimney flue is a safety hazard, and it also reduces your system’s efficiency. Thankfully, regular professional chimney sweeping can remove these deposits to allow for proper airflow and venting and the removal of combustible materials.

Chimney sweep technicians know how to identify and remove hazardous build up, even in those hard-to-see crooks or chimney heights. They use specialized tools to keep chimneys clear, which is why routine sweeping is vital to preventing chimney fires and carbon monoxide build up.

Myth: Chimney Inspections Become Necessary When There’s a Problem

Reality: Annual chimney inspections are critical for identifying potential issues before they become serious problems. 

While inspections can help identify the scope of an identified problem, they’re invaluable for the savings they offer (financially and health-wise) when used proactively to identify hidden dangers that may be present even if a chimney seems to be functioning well. Some issues, like creosote buildup, cracks in the flue liner, or structural damage, need to be detected early to preserve the integrity of your system, protect those in your home, and keep your system operational with small interventions rather than waiting until more significant, costly repairs are required. The Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) recommends annual inspections to ensure a chimney is safe and efficient for use.

Myth: You Can Burn Any Kind of Wood in Your Fireplace

Reality: Wood burning fireplaces require a particular type of fuel, and using anything else is problematic.

The correct fuel? Well seasoned (or cured) firewood. No other type of wood is safe to burn in your home fireplace. Green (freshly cut) or damp wood won’t burn efficiently, and this incomplete combustion can lead to excessive smoke and creosote buildup. Burning treated wood, such as wood that’s been painted or chemically treated, can produce toxic fumes and compromise your indoor air quality.
Burning only well seasoned firewood in your wood burning appliance will enhance both safety and efficiency – and enjoyment too, since no one likes a weak, smoky fire!

Myth: Closing the Damper Completely Prevents Heat Loss

Reality: Closing the damper when you aren’t using your fireplace can help reduce drafts and limit heat loss, but it won’t totally eliminate heat loss through your chimney. It does play an important role, though, so it’s important to keep it in good repair. And if you want to maximize energy efficiency, consider installing glass fireplace doors or a fireplace insert. Either will reduce heat loss when the fireplace isn’t in use and improve heating efficiency.