Utilizing the numerical simulation method, a comprehensive study was conducted to investigate the mechanism of the smoke pull-through phenomenon in a top-central exhaust system under conditions of counter-flowing jets, with a focus on the effects of various exhaust powers. Changes in smoke layer thickness, temperature distribution, and airflow velocity within tunnels were investigated under conditions of enhanced exhaust efficiency. Critical exhaust efficiency thresholds associated with smoke pull-through phenomena were identified across varying heat release rates of fire sources. Furthermore, the critical Froude number for smoke pull-through in centralized exhaust systems was established under counter-flowing jet conditions, along with the critical exhaust rate coefficient required to prevent such occurrences. The findings revealed that as the exhaust power increased, the exhaust port R3, located farthest from the fire source, was the first to experience smoke pull-through, followed by R2, while R1 remained unaffected. An increase in the heat release rate of the fire source led to a corresponding rise in the critical exhaust power threshold for smoke pull-through. A moderate increase in exhaust power could improve exhaust performance; however, exceeding a specific critical value would trigger smoke pull-through, thereby reducing exhaust efficiency. At heat release rates of 20 MW, 30 MW, and 50 MW, the critical exhaust powers were identified as 80 m3/s, 100 m3/s, and 150 m3/s, respectively, with optimal exhaust powers of 50 m3/s, 70 m3/s, and 110 m3/s. Furthermore, the critical Froude number for smoke pull-through was determined to be 35, and the critical exhaust rate coefficient was 0.8. These findings provide a theoretical basis for optimizing the design of exhaust systems, enhancing efficiency, and promoting energy conservation.