A chimney damper is a piece of removal metal that you install in the chimney. Chimney contractors observe that the damper functions like a window. When you open it, it allows air into the fireplace. When you close it, you keep the warm air inside the house and fireplace.
You should keep the damper open when the fire is burning and close it once you have put off the fire.
Are you looking to install the dampers in your home? There are many types of them that you can go for. The most common ones being:
Throat mount dampers
They are known by this name as they are located at the throat of the firebox and chimney. You install the pieces below or above the original damper. The dampers are made up of inflatable seals that fill up like a balloon. This makes it possible for you to plug the flue and deflate when you need to open the flue.
One of the advantages of having the pieces is that they aren’t too expensive. They are also easy to install. Even with basic installation skills, you will be able to easily install them. They come in many sizes for you to choose from.
While they are great to have, you should note that they don’t prevent leaves, animals, and other materials from the outside from getting into the flue. When you are starting fire, you can easily puncture them; therefore, you should be keen.
For you to have the best sealant, you should take your time and find the pieces that are the right size for your flue.
Chimney top dampers
As you might have guessed, these are located at the top of the chimney. When you install them, they will not only protect your chimney, but also help you in saving energy. They are made up of a metal cap or gate that opens and closes by a means of a level and cable located inside the chimney.
The pieces also feature silicone rubber gaskets that provide leak-proof seals and metal mesh guards that prevent animals from getting into the chimney. When you properly install them, the units last for a long time and provide a seal for the entire chimney flue.
Their downside is that the metal parts tend to experience some weathering over time. In some cases, they can be too restrictive on the flue, preventing proper draft. The dampers have also been shown to be a little expensive than the other types on the market; therefore, you should be ready to part with a substantial amount of money when you are looking to install them.
Due to the rubber-type gasket, the dampers are highly effective at preventing a wide range of problems from nesting animals to debris.
Custom dampers
Do you have a fireplace larger or smaller than the traditional one? Do you have a chimney that has an unconventional design? You should get a custom damper. These units are designed to fit your chimney flue. As you might have guessed, they are often priced high.
For you to install them, you need to hire a chimney expert who will inspect the chimney and recommend the best units that you should go for.
Chimney damper tips
As you can see, there are many types of dampers in the market that you can go for. You only need to find the one that is ideal for you. Your choice of damper depends on your needs and preferences.
Regardless of the fireplace damper that you choose, ensure that its installed by a professional. You also should ensure that it’s of the right size. The last thing you want is buying a piece that doesn’t provide you with the service that you are looking for.
After installing it, it’s necessary that you undertake regular inspections of the damper. At least once a year, hire a professional to go around the unit and identify any issues it might be having. If the seal has become loose, you have to tighten it or replace the damper.
Just like the other parts of the chimney, you need to clean the fireplace damper. When undertaking chimney cleaning, ensure that the chimney sweep Bowie thoroughly cleans the damper.
