Odour from fireplace

What is going on

Smell when the fireplace runs.

Likely causes

• Burn-in not done
• Leaks at door/relief seals, vent collar or firebox (direct vent)
• Dust burning off after long idle
• Combustibles too close
• Mantle too close
• Vapour barrier/insulation/debris touching firebox
• Clearances not met
• Creosote in old chimney (inserts)
• Airborne contaminants (pet hair, dust, smoke)
• Sooting / bad air shutter setting
• Vent-free: no catalytic door

Check in this order

1. Do the burn-in run on highest setting for 8-10 hours with the blower off, area ventilated (low-BTU units may need more than one).
2. Direct vent check for leaks at door seal, relief-door seals, vent collar and firebox; reseal.
3. If rarely used, explain dust burn-off.
4. Keep combustibles at least four feet from the front of the fireplace.
5. Check mantle clearances against the manual; adjust or remove the mantle.
6. In a finished wall, check for vapour barrier, insulation or debris touching the outer shell; restore clearances.
7. Inserts check the existing chimney for creosote.
8. Natural vent / vent-free check for airborne contaminants; make sure the unit burns clean (no sooting, air shutter correct).
9. Vent-free a catalytic door (where available) can reduce odour.

More gas fireplace guides

• Blower noisy, vibrating or rattling
• Carbon / soot buildup (service flowchart)
• Carbon / soot on glass, logs or firebox
• Complete unit shutdown - direct vent
• Complete unit shutdown - natural vent / vent-free
• Delayed ignition of main burner