The Purpose Of A Damper

The damper is a device that resembles a hinged valve or door. The damper controls the airflow within the chimney flue. Dampers help manage airflow, preventing drafts and allowing for a comfortable temperature. Dampers are also used to prevent backdrafts in exhaust systems. A damper is either manually adjusted or automatically operated. The damper plays a crucial role in the efficient operation of the fireplace.

How To Use The Damper?

Using the damper appropriately will keep smoke, carbon monoxide, or other hazards from entering your home. First and foremost, it is essential to know that when you have a fire in the fireplace, the damper must be fully open. Once the fire has died down and it is cold, the damper needs to be closed. Opening the damper will allow any of the toxins or smoke to leave your home. Closing when not in use will not only prevent small critters from getting in your home but also keep warm air in during the winter.

Adjusting the damper to regulate takes a little more experience, but with slight adjustments, you will be on your way, making adjustments like a pro. When you have a fire and you see smoke billowing out of the fireplace, you may need to force a draft to get the smoke going up the chimney. Open a door or a window, and the air will be forced to flow up the chimney.  Once the fire is burning nicely, you can close the damper slightly, this will control the fire’s intensity and efficiency.

Adjusting The Damper.

To open the damper, reach into the firebox, push the handle up until you have opened it completely before burning. When closing the damper, the same handle is pulled down until you hear a thud sound.

Fireplace dampers are categorized by their location. Two particular dampers in this category are the throat damper and the top mount damper. The throat damper is located in the throat of the chimney, in and above the firebox. The top mount damper is located at the top of the chimney, serving as the chimney cap. Both are efficient in controlling airflow and improving the efficiency of the fireplace while reducing energy loss.

You may have a rotary-type damper handle. This type operates by rotating a key-like component, located on the side of the fireplace.

Fireplace Damper Repair

Over time, you may find that the damper gets rusted, or the spring door is not working as easily. Contact Doodlebuggers Fireplace for your annual inspection for an overall look at all the components of your fireplace and chimney.

Our technicians are not subcontractors; they are true employees of the company. They go through a rigorous process to learn every detail of all of our services. Most of our technicians are cross-trained and certified in many designations, including the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA), to name a couple. They must earn these designations via national standardized testing. This is not something to take lightly; we want to ensure they know what they are doing while serving your property.