Should it smell like that?

Question

A neighbor has a wood burner for their only source of heat. They did last year as well. This year (but not last) I catch the scent of it at all hours of the day or night whether there is a wind or not. It stinks! Smells like something burning. They got reported earlier in the fall as not being properly vented but proved that they were. They were mad about it, too. They have small kids and besides the smell that stuffs ME up as it invades our home I am wondering if it's safe for them. Could they be doing something else wrong? Does it need to be cleaned? Help!

Answer 1

Sounds like their chimney isn't high enough. There is a Code to which a chimney has to be in height above the roof so smoke and stink doesn't invade other's homes.
I've always liked the smell of burning wood, maybe they're burning garbage as well, who knows?

Answer 2

I would say that they are probably burning things like paper, cardboard, and plastic in it. This creates a horrid smell and lasts sometimes for quite awhile. It smells like someone is constantly burning their trash. It isn't really harmful as far as I know but as their neighbor it is probably annoying. I don't think that their is anything you can do about it but ask nicely that they burn only wood as it is drifting into your home and plugging you up. They may also be burning fabric, old clothing, old towels, etc. and using things like oil or kerosene to start their fires. All of this give off a horrid scent. Good luck and I hope this helps!

Answer 3

could be thay have a dead animal residing in the flue, suggest a cleaning or wear nose plugs

Answer 4

They probably need a professional to clean their flue for them

Answer 5

Perhaps they are burning bodies in there, you'd better call the police