Chimney Flue Damper Operation

A cable extends down the chimney flue and into the fireplace opening where when the fire is not burning the damper can be opened or closed by pulling and latching the operating cable.

Chimney flue damper operation.

If your damper is located at the top of your chimney you have a top mount damper. If your damper is located at the top of your fireplace you have a traditional throat damper. A closed damper also stops cold drafts from coming down the chimney. When you aren t using your fireplace it should be closed to prevent heated and cooled air in your home from escaping.

A chimney top replacement damper is typically a hinged metal door installed at the top of the chimney working from the rooftop. This type of damper is spring loaded and has a default position of open. When you are using your fireplace it needs to be open so that smoke can vent outside. If you re not sure which position is the open or shut repeat step 2 to determine the position of the damper.

These dampers are opened and closed by a ratcheting push or lift rod or a screw type rotary control. The damper is often a small metal flap located inside the fireplace flue. The amount of air a fire has to breathe has a large impact on how large it can grow and how long it lasts. Unlike the firebox and the chimney which only serve a purpose when you ve got a roaring fire going the damper plays an important role when the fireplace is both active and inactive.

Once the flue is open place your logs kindling and paper into the fireplace and set the fire. Open the flue damper for a fire. It can be opened or closed manually to control the amount of air that is allowed to pass through.