How to Work a Fireplace Damper
The type of fireplace damper your fireplace has will depend on the age and style of your home. If you enjoy burning your fireplace on cool evenings, it is important to have a damper that is functional. The damper must be opened every time the fireplace is burned in order to keep your home from filling with smoke.
- Determine the type of damper that is installed in your hearth. Some have handles for opening while others are operated with a wire or chain attached to the opening and closing mechanism. Regardless of the type, the location is usually directly above the firebox in the upper metal part of the fireplace, which extends into the chimney. If your mechanism using a chain it may be hanging to one side.
- Try opening and closing the damper, regardless of the type of mechanism the damper vent rod is attached to. It is usually pulled up and down to open and close the vent.
- Pull the damper down to open the vent. There should be little if any resistance in a fully functioning damper. If you don't know if the damper is open, put your hand in the chimney to see if you feel a draft. If you do not feel any air the damper is not open.
- Try closing the damper by pushing it upward. The mechanism will be harder to move when the damper is closing. This is one method which you can use to determine if the damper was open. Move the opening mechanism the other way to open the damper before starting your fire. Once the damper is open start the fire.
- Never close your damper until the fire is completely extinguished and the hearth has cooled. This will avoid smoke in your home.
- Move the damper opening and closing mechanism in the opposite direction you used to open it. This will close it.
- The damper should always be closed when the fireplace or stove is not in use to prevent cold air from entering your home. It also prevents birds and other animals from entering your home when it is closed.