Inadequate internal design

To work properly a fireplace needs a proper "throat" and be "gathered" into the flue (if you need to know more about the meaning of these and other terms on this site, click here).

Inadequate chimney and fireplace design

Large voids inside the chimney where turbulence can occur, sudden changes in internal section rather than gradual transitions, inadequate throating and smoke shelf, poor fireplace and smoke chamber geometry, can all lead to smoke spillage even though the fire opening is correct. This will probably be in the form of continuous wisps of smoke escaping from the fireplace. If you suspect any of these conditions, contact the experts.

Common flaws | Back to chimney problems