What’s the Difference Between Top-Mount and Throat Dampers?
If your current damper is dysfunctional, a good question to ask is, “What’s the difference between top-mount and throat dampers?” Making an informed decision is an ideal way to avoid potentially costly regrets. Chimney dampers are essential components. Our CSIA-certified chimney technicians are always happy to answer any questions you may have. We go further, providing homeowners with industry information that may be helpful. The essential information for choosing a replacement damper is as follows.
How Can I Tell Whether My Damper is Working?’
The easiest way to gain peace of mind about all chimney components is to schedule annual chimney inspections, as recommended by leading fire safety experts. During Level 1 inspections, all parts of the chimney that are easily accessible are checked and examined. We may ask questions about the operation of your fireplace to determine whether unseen problems exist. For instance, you may have a damper problem if you have a smoky fireplace.
Fireplaces usually start out with throat dampers. These can warp or, if there is a build-up of soot or debris on the smoke shelf, throat dampers can fail to open all the way. Professional chimney cleaning may solve the problem. You are in good shape if your chimney damper performs the following functions:
- Opens all the way
- Closes securely
- Allows no airflow when closed
Throat Dampers
Just above the firebox is where throat dampers are installed. There are different mechanisms that are used to open and close throat dampers. For example, you may need to turn a “key” so that the damper is opened before starting fires. After the fire is out and embers are cold, turn the key in the opposite direction to close the damper.
Due to the nearness of the fires in fireplaces, metal throat dampers often warp, especially if the fireplace is over-fired, which means that the fire is burning hotter than safety would dictate.
Top-Mount Dampers
Homeowners usually choose to go with top-mounted chimney dampers when their original damper needs to be replaced. Top-mount dampers create an airtight seal that prevents airflow between the interior of the home and the outdoors. This could result in significantly lower heating and cooling costs. That is especially true if air had been flowing through cracks between the throat damper’s metal plates.
When the fireplace is not in use, the top-mount damper is pulled down to seal off the chimney. A rubber-type seal ensures that it is airtight. Benefits of a top-mount damper include lower utility costs, keeping rain and snow out of your chimney, and preventing wildlife from getting into your chimney and potentially creating havoc.
Closing a top-mount damper is easy. There is a handle above the fireplace and inside the chimney that you pull down and secure to close the top-mount damper. To open it, release the handle.
Call the Chimney Experts for Installation of a Top-Mount or Throat Damper
Now that you know the difference between top-mount and throat dampers, give us a call at Chimney Saver Solutions. We are in the Richmond, VA area, and many homeowners have learned that we provide reliable services and great customer service.
Not only can we install top-mount as well as new throat dampers, but we also offer comprehensive services. If you need new flashing installation, new fireplace installation, a chimney inspection, chimney cleaning, masonry repair, help with a leaky chimney, help with a smoky fireplace, new chimney liner installation, or anything else chimney-related, we hope you won’t hesitate to contact us.
Call us today or fill out our online form to schedule an appointment.
