Why Is Smoke Going Downstairs From My Fireplace?
Have you ever lit a cozy fire upstairs, only to find smoke drifting into the downstairs level of your home? You’re not alone—this is a common fireplace problem in Baltimore and surrounding Maryland communities.
Here’s why it happens:
- Negative Air Pressure: Modern homes are sealed tightly. When another appliance (like a furnace, dryer, or bathroom fan) runs downstairs, it can create suction that pulls smoke down through the chimney system.
- Shared or Damaged Flues: If your chimney flue is cracked, blocked, or shared between appliances, smoke may escape into lower levels instead of venting outside.
- Chimney Drafting Issues: An improperly sized or obstructed flue can make it harder for smoke to rise, causing it to spill into other parts of the house.
The Fix?
A professional chimney inspection can identify the root cause—whether it’s a flue liner, venting adjustment, or masonry repair.
📞 Call Chelsea’s Chimney at 301-960-5664 or visit our chimney inspection page to solve your smoke problem and enjoy worry-free fires.
