The Purpose of a Smoke Chamber The chimney system is one that is very important to the proper function and safety of the fireplace. The firebox holds the fire and the chimney—more specifically, the flue—vents the fire. The space where the smoke travels to rise up into the flue is called the smoke chamber.
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.
What is a smoke shelf?
Definition of smoke shelf : a shelf or baffle in a smoke flue designed to prevent downdraft.
How do I clean my chimney smoke shelf?
Peel back a small portion of the poly sheeting and use the long-handled brush to clean the smoke chamber. Use the noodle brush to remove all the soot from the smoke shelf. Then switch back to the long-handled brush to clean the sides of the firebox. Finish by vacuuming the entire firebox.
Is a smoke shelf necessary?
Fireplaces must have smoke shelves. The Canadian research has shown that smoke shelves are not needed, but fireplaces should have a throat and a flue close to the front of the fireplace and a chimney top damper instead of or in addition to a throat damper.
Is a smoke shelf necessary for an outdoor fireplace?
Wood burning outdoor fireplaces create a lot of smoke. 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. Hot Tip! Do the math!
What is a smoke chamber for chimneys?
The Function of the Smoke Chamber The smoke chamber sits just above the firebox and damper. It serves as a gateway to the chimney flue. In traditional masonry fireplaces, the smoke chamber is angled on the sides and front and vertically flat at the back. This construction is intended to serve as an upside-down funnel.
Why does smoke come down my chimney?
Smoking can also stem from chimney problems. Occasional puffs of smoke that enter the room from beneath the chimney breast are usually caused by downdrafts, or air rushing down the chimney in spite of the upward air flow caused by fireplace heat. Downdrafts often occur in windy weather.Dec 8, 1989
Why does my house fill with smoke when I light a fire?
The most likely reason that your house is filling with smoke when you light a fire is that the damper is closed. The damper should be fully opened when the fireplace is in use, and closed when it is not. All indoor fireplaces have a damper that must be opened before you light a fire in your fireplace.Oct 4, 2019
How do you stop downdraft in chimney when not in use?
- Shut Off Exhaust Fans: When your fireplace is in use, turn off your exhaust fans, as they naturally increase negative pressure by pulling air out of the house.
- Adjust Your Damper: If your damper is warped, you might need to adjust it slightly to get the right airflow.
How tall should a smoke chamber be?
The smoke chamber -- the area between the damper and the first flue liner -- needs to be a minimum of 27 inches high. Speaking of flue liners, fireplace masons often install ones that are too large.Jan 8, 2000
Is smoke chamber parging necessary?
When smoke chamber parging is needed The CSIA recommends that all smoke chambers have smooth walls, and most building codes require it. Jagged steps of older smoke chambers can impede your chimney's draft. In the case of an uneven, or corbeled, smoke chambers, the CSIA recommends parging.