Properly Working Damper
A chimney damper is a manually operated device that regulates the amount of air and smoke that pass through the chimney flue. When the damper is closed, it serves as a seal, preventing air from leaking in from the outside while retaining the air from the inside. On the other hand, leaving it open not only allows carbon monoxide-rich exhaust to pass down the flue, but it also makes it easier to start and maintain a fire.
The temperature continues to rise with each passing day. You are probably doing all in your power to maintain the coolest possible temperature inside of your home. One of those things to do is search your house for any and all air leaks you may find. During the warmer months, you should make it a habit to close the damper on your chimney to trap the cooled air within your home. If you have an older chimney made of masonry, you almost certainly have what’s known as a conventional throat damper. The dampers in question are almost often fabricated from a metallic material. Unfortunately, these dampers are susceptible to corrosion damage, which can make them difficult to function. This problem can arise at any time.
Because of the extensive rust that had built up on them over the years, many of the dampers on older buildings were permanently stuck in the open position. It is possible that the damper in your house is the root of your home’s insufficient energy efficiency, in which case you should consider replacing it with a new top-mounted damper. We would be happy to provide you with further information on this particular type of damper and explain how it works to maintain the comfort of your house while reducing your need for both energy and money.
How exactly do chimney dampers conduct their job?
If you don’t want the room to be filled with smoke each time you light a fire in the fireplace, you need a chimney damper that can open and close in the correct manner. If the damper is closed on your fireplace, you should never build a fire inside of it. It is necessary to open the damper all the way in order to enable smoke and any other byproducts of combustion escape down the chimney. When you are not making use of your fireplace, ensure that the damper is shut so that fresh air from the outside does not enter your home.
What is the key distinction between a top-mounted damper and a throat damper?
The location of the throat damper, which is directly above the firebox, as opposed to the top-mounted damper, which is positioned at the very top of the chimney, is the primary distinction between the two types of dampers. The sort of seal that is supplied is still another point of differentiation. Metal can be placed on top of metal (the firebox) in certain older throat dampers; however, this does not create a good seal. A silicone rubber gasket is often used in a top-mounted damper in order to provide an airtight seal between the damper and the chimney. Your monthly utility expenses will go down after you have a top-mounted damper installed in your home because of the decreased airflow. There is a distinction between the two methods for opening and shutting these dampers. In order to adjust the position of some throat dampers, you will need to insert your head inside the firebox. To draw a chain, which is attached to the firebox, all you need to do is pull on a lever or handle that is attached to it.
If you suspect that your chimney or fireplace is having some issues, have an expert inspect it. Call Local Chimney Sweep Cleaning today. We also offer Chimney Cleaning Miramonte and other affordable services.
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