Knowing how to properly use your damper can make a big difference in safety, performance, and comfort.
In this blog we’ll discuss what a damper does, why it matters, and how to use it the right way.
A damper is a movable plate located inside your chimney flue that helps to regulate airflow. The main function of the damper is to control the draft of air moving in and out of the chimney, which affects how efficiently your fireplace operates and how well it ventilates smoke and gases out of your home. Without a properly working damper you may experience cold drafts when the fireplace is not in use. If your damper is closed while the fireplace is being used it can cause serious smoke backup into the home.
Found just above the firebox and opened or closed using a tool or lever.
Installed at the top of the chimney, opened and closed using a lever inside the home.
If the damper is open when the fireplace is not in use, warm indoor air can escape through the chimney and cold drafts can enter the home. When the fireplace is in use, if the damper is closed or partially closed, smoke can back up into your living space—creating a serious health and safety hazard.
Proper damper position can help regulate the fire and help your logs burn more efficiently. Too much airflow can burn fuel too quickly, while too little can suffocate the fire.
As we mentioned above, an open damper can let cold air back into your home. Closing the damper properly helps prevent this from happening.
Always make sure the damper is fully open before starting a fire in your fireplace. This allows smoke and gases to escape safely through the chimney flue. You can check if your damper is open by feeling for drafts or shining a flashlight to be sure!
Always keep your damper open while the fire is burning. Keeping your damper open ensures proper ventilation and prevents any smoke or gas from backing up in your space.
Wait until all of the embers in your fireplace are completely cooled and no smoke is coming from the fireplace. Once you’re confident that the embers have cooled and any smoke has cleared the fireplace and chimney, close the damper to prevent warm air from escaping and cold drafts from entering your space.
Check your damper regularly for rust, soot buildup, and obstructions. If it’s sticking or hard to move, it may need professional attention. A damaged damper won’t seal properly and can impact your fireplace and chimney’s energy efficiency as well as even potentially putting you and your family at risk.
Now that you know how to use your damper correctly, you’re one step closer to becoming a smarter, safer chimney owner. The next time you start a fire in your fireplace, don’t forget to check your damper—this small task can make a big difference!
Throughout Morris County, New Jersey, and Fairfield County, Connecticut, homeowners turn to National Chimney Cleaners for regular and emergency work on their chimney and fireplace systems. If your damper is damaged, we’ll get it fixed the right way.
If your chimney is in need of inspections, cleanings, repairs, and more, give us a call or contact us online today! Our experienced technicians are ready to help ensure a safer, more efficient fireplace experience for you and your family.
