Chimney Flue Fire

The thicker the layer of creosote the hotter the fire.

Chimney flue fire.

A chimney fire is the combustion burning of residue deposits referred to as soot or creosote on the inner surfaces of chimney tiles flue liners stove pipes etc. This type of creosote makes for the hottest burning fuel for a flue fire. Chimney fire extinguishing aids work by consuming available oxygen the most obvious sign of a chimney fire is when you see flames and sparks shooting out of the chimney like a roman candle on the. A chimney cap on the crown around the outside opening of the flue will keep debris.

The heat generated by this infernal can raise to ignition point the temperature of wood structures on the other side of a chimney so that it also starts to burn threatening the entire house. Quiet slow burning chimney fires are usually caused by either a stray spark or high temperatures that ignite creosote buildup in the chimney. Leaves and animal nests inside a flue can quickly fuel a chimney fire when touched by loose embers from a fire. If you realize a chimney fire is occurring follow these steps.

1 get everyone out of the house including yourself 2 call the fire department. Creosote is a highly combustible substance that often looks sticky and tar like. The facts about chimney fires loud cracking and popping noise a lot of dense smoke and an intense hot smell. The process begins with the incomplete combustion of fuel in the attached appliance usually a wood or coal stove or open fire.

The creosote builds up on the walls inside a chimney flue and over time it becomes a fire hazard. It s highly recommended to install a flue liner to further protect the chimney and reduce the chances of a flue fire. The only sign is the damage left behind. Most chimney fires are quiet and slow burning.

The chimney flue is a clear necessity for a wood burning fireplace as it directs the gases from your fireplace out of. The flue protects the chimney walls so it is on the inside of the chimney tower. This flue fire damage video is a quick simulation of how fire leaves the chimney soon after the creosote ignites.