TN Fireplace & Chimney advises homeowners to check air circulation to ensure safe and comfortable indoor air quality

East Tennessee's leading chimney service experts caution that modern energy efficient homes may not be designed to properly vent fireplace and stove chimneys

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TN Fireplace & Chimney

Aug 11, 2020, 07:03 ET

KNOXVILLE, Tenn., Aug. 11, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- TN Fireplace & Chimney, East Tennessee's leading chimney care company and a proud supporter of Tennessee football, encourages homeowners in the area to maintain healthy indoor air quality (IAQ) by making sure their chimney air circulates properly and isn't drawing outside dust, pollen, and other outside pollutants inside.

Air drawn in by the chimney can contribute to odors, allergies, mold, and poor performance of the fireplace or stove.

"This is a situation where energy efficiency can work against you," said Josh Cate, owner of TN Fireplace & Chimney. "When air goes out of the chimney, it has to be replaced. Modern construction has advanced to the point that new homes are airtight, so the only route for replacement air to come in is down the chimney. When that happens, it can bring in particles and contaminants from outside as well as material that accumulates inside the chimney."

Any accumulation in the chimney can also result in safety and performance issues, including back drafts and the buildup of a flammable material called creosote.

Cate recommends a professional inspection if you suspect your chimney is drawing down air that negatively affects your home's indoor air quality. For immediate relief, open a window near the fireplace or stove or remove weatherstripping around doors and windows in that room.

"For a permanent solution, adding an exterior vent is one option," Cate said. "Another is installing an energy recovery ventilator (ERV) to the HVAC system. These are designed to maintain the right balance of air pressure and also filter outside air before it comes in, so most particles and irritants are eliminated. This is one of the most effective methods for improving and maintaining your home's IAQ."

For more information about TN Fireplace & Chimney or to schedule an appointment for inspection or cleaning, visit https://tnchimney.com.

About TN Fireplace & Chimney
TN Fireplace & Chimney, the leading chimney care company in East Tennessee and one of the fastest-growing chimney companies in the country, was founded in 2008 by Josh Cate to deliver industry-leading service based on technology, training and a full line of fireplace and chimney maintenance, repair, installation, cleaning and remodeling options. As a Tennessee-licensed contractor and a proud supporter of Tennessee athletics, TN Fireplace & Chimney deploys a team of highly trained technicians and advanced technology to provide the highest level of customer service throughout Knox, Anderson, Claiborne, Campbell, Morgan, Blount, Loudon, Sevier and Jefferson counties. For more information, visit https://tnchimney.com/.