What Is a Chimney Damper?

A chimney damper is a device that controls the flow of air and gases through the chimney. When the fireplace is not in use, the damper will be closed. When a great fire is roaring the damper should already be open. It is important to open the damper before starting a fire as no one likes a smoky house.

A chimney damper can be made of a metal plate or an inflatable seal. The handle to open and close the damper should be located on the side of the fireplace.  The damper can be adjustable for an allotted amount of air to escape or stay in. There are a couple of places a chimney damper can be placed.

Throat Chimney Dampers

More often than not a chimney damper sits at the base of the chimney or the flue. This type of chimney damper is called a throat damper. These are relatively easy to maintain or repair. The only problem with a throat damper is that birds, squirrels, and debris can still end up inside the chimney.  Rain can also accumulate inside the chimney with a throat damper.  These may be easy to install, but if the owner is not keen on the idea of having to scale the chimney to check for animals, their nests or clean out leaves and other debris every winter, it might not be the best choice.

Top of the Chimney Dampers  

Dampers at the top of the chimney will effectively keep all those pesky things from getting into the chimney. The repair or maintenance is a bit trickier because of the location of the damper. When the damper is located at the top of the chimney it is usually opened or closed with a rope or cable. A professional should do installation. Safety must be considered when installing a chimney top damper.

It is best to check on the damper before the cold season starts. Warping or not sealing properly can be a problem. When either of these happen to a damper it is best to replace it. As much as no one likes a smoky house, the damper not sealing properly or being warped can cost when the heat is off and the air conditioner comes on.