Are you using your damper correctly?
A fireplace adds warmth, comfort, and ambience to your home. The damper is one of the most commonly misunderstood parts of the fireplace. Homeowners may not be aware that improper use of the damper can lead to smoke problems, heat loss, higher energy bills, and even safety hazards.
It is important to understand what the damper is and what purpose it serves. The damper is a movable metal plate inside the chimney or flue. Its primary job is to control airflow. When opened, it allows smoke and gases to exit the house through the chimney when a fire is in the fireplace. When closed, it prevents warm indoor air from escaping. It also serves to keep cold air, moisture, and pests from entering the home. The damper works as a door between your living space and the outdoors.
There are two different types of dampers. A throat damper is most traditional and is located above the firebox. The other type is a top-sealing damper. This is mounted at the chimney top; this type is more energy efficient than the aforementioned.
How to Tell If The Damper Is Open or Closed
- Use a flashlight to look inside visually.
- The handle position indicates if it is open or closed.
Proper Damper Use During A Fire
- While starting a fire, the damper should be fully open.
- Once your fire has started, you may adjust the damper to control the heat.
- For a hotter fire, keep the damper completely open.
- For a softer fire, you can close the damper slightly. If you are not comfortable with this task, please consult your chimney professional.
When To Close The Damper?
Once the fire has completely burned out and all embers are cold, the damper should be closed. Closing the damper is essential, but only when the fire has been out and is cold. Closing the damper will keep the warmth inside the home.
Cleaning and Inspection
Professional chimney experts recommend having a chimney sweep and inspection done annually. The firebox should be cleaned out regularly as well. An inspection will check your damper for rust, warping, and proper usage.
Using your fireplace damper correctly is a simple habit to get into. By using it properly, you will benefit from improved safety, better performance, and reduced energy loss. Before every fire, be sure to take a moment to check the damper. It is a small step that will ensure your fire is enjoyable, smoke-free, and with perfect airflow.
Over 20 years have passed since the start of Chimney Saver Solutions! We are now a leading chimney service provider in the Richmond, Virginia area.
We are equipped to deal with any chimney-related issues. We thoroughly enjoy the opportunity to serve our local community and ensure the safety of our friends and neighbors. We hope you will give us a chance to prove why we are the best choice for all your chimney-related needs.
