Wood Burning Fireplace Damper

Essential Aspects of Wood Burning Fireplace Dampers

Wood-burning fireplaces can be a great source of warmth and ambiance in your home. But to ensure that your fireplace is operating safely and efficiently, it's essential to have a properly functioning damper. Here are a few key aspects of wood-burning fireplace dampers that you should be aware of:

Purpose of a Damper: A fireplace damper is a plate or valve that is installed in the flue of your fireplace. Its primary purpose is to regulate the airflow through the fireplace, which in turn controls the intensity of the fire and the amount of heat that is released into the room. When the damper is open, it allows air to flow freely up the flue, drawing smoke and gases out of the fireplace and creating a draft that helps to fuel the fire. When the damper is closed, it restricts the airflow, slowing down the burning process and reducing the amount of heat that is released.

Types of Dampers: There are two main types of fireplace dampers: throat dampers and top-sealing dampers. Throat dampers are installed in the throat of the fireplace, just above the firebox. They typically consist of a metal plate that is hinged on one side and can be opened or closed by pulling on a chain or lever. Top-sealing dampers are installed at the top of the flue and seal against the flue liner when closed. They are typically operated by a lever or handle located on the outside of the fireplace.

Importance of a Tight Seal: It's important to ensure that your fireplace damper creates a tight seal when closed. This will prevent air from leaking into the flue, which can reduce the efficiency of your fireplace and allow smoke and gases to escape into your home. If you notice that your damper is not sealing properly, you should have it inspected and repaired or replaced as soon as possible.

Damper Operation: The damper should be opened fully when starting a fire to create a strong draft. Once the fire is established, the damper can be partially closed to control the intensity of the fire and the amount of heat that is released. When the fire is finished burning, the damper should be closed completely to prevent heat from escaping up the flue and to prevent cold air from entering the home.

Maintenance and Inspection: Fireplace dampers should be inspected and cleaned on a regular basis to ensure that they are operating properly. This can be done by a qualified chimney sweep or fireplace technician. The damper should also be lubricated periodically to ensure smooth operation.