In windy conditions, residents should ensure that their dampers are closed, as doing so will help to improve the efficiency of their flue accessories, it has been claimed.
As well as this, homeowners should check their chimneys regularly in order to repair any faults before they worsen and jeopardise a building's heating system, theDailyJournal.com has reported.
Chimney expert Zandy Talmage told the website: "If there are gusty winds, odour or ashes may blow down into your rooms, so it's best to keep it [the damper] shut.
"But if you leave it open, it does give you some movement of air, some ventilation."
The specialist also advised that homeowners could place an "open" or "shut" sign on their fireplaces to remind them of how they have left their damper.
It is imperative that property owners check the condition of their chimney throughout the year, as defects can occur during any season.