How does chimney damper work?
A chimney damper is a manual mechanism that controls airflow and smoke through the chimney flue. A closed damper acts as a seal that keeps the exterior air out and the interior air in. In contrast, an open one sends carbon-monoxide-rich exhaust through the flue and also assists in starting and controlling a fire.
How far should I open my damper?
The damper should always be fully open before lighting a fire and when the fireplace is in use. Close it when it’s not it use. Operating the fireplace with the damper partially closed will not generate more heat. Instead, blocking the passage through the flue will result in smoke entering the home.
What if my chimney doesn’t have a damper?
A wood board can be designed and cut to fit the opening of the fireplace. This can act as a damper and keep the chimney from sucking out hot air or allowing cool air to flow through the home. Glass doors that have vents can be more expensive but allow for a long-term solution to a physical damper inside the chimney.
How far should damper be open?
How far should a fireplace damper open?
The damper should be kept open until all embers are finished burning to prevent smoke from escaping into the home. When the fireplace is not in use, the damper should always be closed. An open damper is like an open window, allowing large amounts of heat from the home to escape.
How much does it cost to have a damper installed?
Fireplace Damper Cost and Installation A cast-iron damper with opening mechanism costs an average of $150 to $250, depending on the size. If you only need to replace the damper plate, these cost around $50.
Can I use a fireplace without a damper?
Whether your fireplace is gas or wood-burning, if it was built with a pre-fabricated insert, then it almost certainly has a damper. And while older wood-burning fireplaces can function safely without a damper (gas fireplaces cannot), a chimney without a damper is just a gaping hole in the roof of your house.
How does a chimney damper work on a fireplace?
This is operable by a chain or pull system situated near the top-front of your firebox. Your chimney damper covers the flue, preventing cold air from downdrafting into your chimney and entering your home when not in use. When the fireplace is in use, you open the damper to allow smoke to exit through the chimney.
How much does it cost to repair a chimney damper?
Isolating repair costs for your damper plate, we see an average of around $55 up to $70 for a DIY repair. However, it’s challenging to properly replace the more expansive damper frame and you may get in over your head with repair costs if you damage other parts of your chimney during damper repairs.
How do you fix a damper that won’t close?
According to Hunker, a draft eliminator commonly known as a chimney balloon can quickly fix a damper issue. This small inflatable seals the chimney shaft, thus blocking out cold air and maintaining warm air circulation. Can I Check if My Chimney Damper is Opened or Closed?
How do you open a throat damper on a gas fireplace?
If you can pull the handle towards you then you may be closing the damper. Some dampers also work in reserve; pulling the handle towards you will open the damper, while pushing it into the fireplace will close it. Other throat dampers can also be opened and closed by moving a lever to the left or right.