Dampers Matter

What Are Top Sealing Dampers?

These days, everyone is trying to find ways to save money on energy while protecting their homes. What they may not realize is that their chimney plays a vital role in this process. A top sealing damper for the chimney creates a tight seal that keeps the appropriate things in and out of the chimney. This is not only vital to chimney safety but can also significantly lower the energy bill in the home.

Almost every chimney already has an internal damper installed. However, this is usually not enough to give the chimney adequate protection. Internal liners usually have a metal to metal connection between the damper and the liner. This leaves gaps, which allow air and moisture through. In addition, it can rust and cause leaks, which not only damage the flue but can impact the climate in the home.

The most important benefit of a top sealing damper is that it keeps the heat in during the winter months. When the heating system in the home is running but the air is escaping through the chimney, the heater needs to work even harder. This is a waste of energy and a good way to quickly hike up the energy bill. Likewise, it keeps cool air in when the air conditioner is running during the summer months.

Although the top damper keeps heat in the home, it is important to remember that it should always be open when there is a fire in the fireplace. The same rule applies to the chimney’s internal damper. If the damper is closed while a fire is burning, smoke and dangerous gasses will enter the home when they should be leaving through the chimney. As soon as the fire is out and cleaned up, close the damper again to retain the heat.

In addition to helping control the climate in the house, the top damper helps provide extra protection from outside elements For example, it helps to prevent rain and snow from entering the flue and creating excess moisture. Even a little bit of extra water in the flue can create significant structural damage. It also helps to keep out any unwanted visitors, such as rodents and birds that make their nests in chimneys.

A top sealing chimney damper seems like a fairly simple piece if equipment. However, it is very important that it is installed perfectly in order for it to do its job properly. For this reason, it is necessary to allow a professional to install it. In addition to needing the proper training, this is a job that requires someone to climb up on the roof. This can be extremely dangerous for someone who is not used to that type of task.

When it comes to using a chimney safely and efficiently, the most important thing is keeping foreign objects out of it, as well as limiting the amount of moisture. A top sealing damper can do this but it can also help the household in other ways. It is one of the best ways to keep in warm air during the winter and cold air during the summer. In addition, it prevents outdoor air from entering the home and altering the temperature. This will not only keep everyone in the home much more comfortable, but it can also go a long way to lowering the monthly energy bill .