Drafts from a fireplace can make your home feel uncomfortable and drive up heating costs. The good news is that there are practical ways to fix this issue and keep the warmth inside.
A fireplace letting in cold air is often caused by poor sealing, airflow imbalances or outdated components. If you’re wondering how to keep cold air from coming through a fireplace, the right combination of fixes and upgrades can restore comfort and improve efficiency.
Browse Forge & Flame’s collection of high-efficiency fireplace inserts to keep cold air out and warmth in.
Why Is Cold Air Coming From A Fireplace?
If your fireplace is cold even when it’s in use, there are several common causes. Most fireplaces are not completely airtight, which means outside air can enter when conditions allow it.
Cold drafts often become more noticeable during winter because of temperature differences between indoor and outdoor air. As warm air rises and escapes, it can pull cold air down through the chimney.
Common reasons for cold air coming through a fireplace include:
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Open or poorly sealed damper: Even slightly open dampers allow outside air to flow in.
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Chimney draft issues: Air pressure differences can cause reverse airflow, bringing cold air into the home.
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Lack of insulation or sealing: Gaps around the firebox or chimney can let cold air seep in.
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Older or inefficient fireplace design: Traditional fireplaces are not built to prevent airflow when not in use.
Understanding why you have cold air coming from the fireplace is the first step toward fixing the problem effectively.
Learn how different insert options compare for performance and efficiency in our blog, Comparing Fireplace Inserts: What’s Best for You?
How To Stop Cold Air Coming From A Fireplace
If you’re wondering how to block cold air from coming through a fireplace, there are several practical solutions depending on the severity of the issue. Some fixes are quick and temporary, while others provide long-term results.
Effective ways to stop cold air coming from a fireplace include:
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Close and seal the damper properly: Make sure it’s fully shut when the fireplace is not in use.
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Install a chimney balloon or draft stopper: These help block airflow inside the flue.
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Add glass doors or a fireplace screen: This creates a barrier between your living space and cold air.
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Seal gaps around the fireplace: Use heat-resistant caulking to close leaks between the fireplace and decorative accessories like fronts, faces or surrounds.
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Upgrade to a fireplace insert: Inserts are designed to be sealed systems that prevent drafts and improve efficiency.
For homeowners dealing with consistent cold air coming through a fireplace, upgrading to a modern insert is often the most effective long-term solution. Inserts help regulate airflow, improve heat output and reduce energy loss.
To better understand how inserts differ from traditional fireplaces, learn more from our blog, What is a Fireplace Insert vs. A Fireplace.
Contact A Dealer To Get The Best Forge & Flame Pellet Or Wood Fireplace Insert
Is your fireplace letting in cold air and becoming a recurring issue? It may be time to consider a more permanent solution. While small fixes can help, upgrading to a high-efficiency insert is one of the most reliable ways to stop drafts and improve overall comfort.
Forge & Flame fireplace inserts are designed to create a sealed, controlled heating environment, helping eliminate cold air coming from a fireplace while delivering consistent warmth. Whether you’re looking to improve efficiency or solve airflow issues, the right insert can transform how your home feels in colder months.
Find a local expert to evaluate your setup and recommend the best solution.
Still exploring your options? Learn if a fireplace insert can work for your setup.
