Chimney Damper Repair Near Charlotte: Use a Damper When Not Using Your Chimney
Think of your chimney as a giant open pipe. In that pipe, right above the fireplace, is what we call a chimney damper or fireplace damper. These are meant to seal off your chimney when not in use, ensuring your inside air stays the temperature it’s supposed to – without a damper, it’s like leaving a window open year-round. If you need damper repair or damper installation services in the Charlotte area, good news…Owens can help.
Here at Owens Chimney Systems, we’re passionate about helping you enjoy a safer and more efficient fireplace experience all season long. Whether you need to learn about different damper types, diagnose common chimney issues, or even install a brand new component, our team of experts is here to guide you. Let’s transform your fireplace into a roaring success, one well-maintained damper at a time.
Contact Owens Chimney Systems today and let’s get your fireplace ready for the season!
What Is a Chimney Damper?
A chimney damper, also known as a fireplace damper, sits within the flue of your chimney, typically just above the firebox. When your chimney is not being used, you have a hole in the roof that lets air (whether hot in the winter or cold in the summer) escape. Doesn’t sound very efficient, does it? A well-working damper comes down to seal off that hole, ensuring you don’t have to dealing with these issues.
But what about when you light a fire? No worries. In addition to sealing off tightly, a damper can also open to ensure it won’t trap smoke and harmful gases inside your home – rather they’ll vent out of the top of the chimney like they’re supposed to.
In addition, the damper can be adjusted to give an appropriate amount of airflow based on the type of fire you want to burn.
All in all, while a chimney damper might seem like a small component, it actually plays an important role in your fireplace’s safety, efficiency, and overall performance.
What Are Some Signs That My Chimney Damper Needs Attention?
Outside of your regular chimney inspection, where we would be able to point out any hidden issues, you can actually keep an eye out for several telltale signs that your fireplace needs a new damper:
- Difficulty Operating the Damper: A damper should be fairly easy to open and close completely. If your damper refuses to budge, whether open or closed, it could be stuck due to rust, debris buildup, or a malfunctioning mechanism. You may also hear grinding or scraping sounds that indicate wear and tear, damage, or debris caught in the damper.
- Unwanted Airflow: Whether you’ve recently experienced smoke backdraft, drafts caused by leaks or gaps around the damper, or are even struggling to ignite or keep your fire lit, it’s time to pay attention – your chimney is likely sending you an SOS message.
- Visual Damage: It is common for dampers to wear out over time. But if you notice rust or corrosion, cracks or breaks, or even debris buildup, it’s time to get in touch with a certified chimney technician.
What Are the Different Types of Chimney Dampers?
When it comes to chimney dampers, there are two main types:
- Throat Dampers: These are considered the traditional dampers. Typically located just above the firebox, these dampers have a cast iron or steel handle that controls a large metal plate that swings open and closed, like a door. While these work okay, they don’t offer the most effective seal…air can still escape in and out of the chimney through small cracks, and they have a tendency to get stuck or rust.
- Top-Sealing Dampers: Also known as top-down damper, chimney cap damper, top mount damper, or lock top damper, this type of damper seals the chimney appliance off at the top of the flue with a cover that is connected to a chain attached in the chimney wall. This allows you to keep the system sealed from any air entering or exiting through the top of the appliance while the fireplace is not in use and, with a single pull, open the damper up so the fireplace can be safely used.
If you have any questions about dampers and how they should and should not be used, please contact us. We are here to help you keep your fireplace and chimney system in top working order so you can enjoy your fireplace and keep your family safe. We also have some energy-efficient cap and damper combinations that might be perfect for your chimney system. We can check to make sure the damper is working properly at your next annual chimney inspection.
What Are the Benefits of Having a Top-Sealing Damper?
Throat dampers have been used for hundreds of years. But if you’re looking for the best of the best, you should consider a top-sealing damper. Here are just a few reasons why it’s superior to a traditional throat damper:
- Improved Efficiency: One of the most significant benefits of a top-sealing damper is its energy efficiency. This type of damper creates a tighter seal at the top of the chimney, significantly reducing the amount of warm air escaping from your home (or cold air coming in). This translates to lower heating bills and a more comfortable living space.
- Animal & Debris Prevention: Since top-sealing dampers double as a damper and a chimney cap, you don’t have to worry about animals and debris entering your chimney vent.
- Water Damage Prevention: These also help to prevent water damage to the chimney. If your chimney does not have some type of cap, rainwater can enter the chimney vent and cause damage to the chimney liner. A top-sealing damper provides an airtight seal that prevents water from entering your chimney and is made of stainless steel – which means it are more resistant to rust and corrosion, increasing its lifespan.
Top-sealing dampers might not be suitable for every fireplace. If you’re interested in finding out if we could get a top-sealing damper installed on your chimney, give Owens Chimney Systems a call today.
Don’t Wait for Winter’s Chill – Prepare Your Fireplace Today!
It should come as no surprise that when winter arrives, our phones ring off the hook and our schedule fills up quickly. Avoid last-minute scrambling and ensure a safe, efficient, and cozy season by scheduling an inspection and sweep today!
One of our certified chimney technicians here at Owens Chimney System will not only check out your chimney damper, but also give your entire chimney system the care it deserves. Call us now at 704-610-3534 or request an appointment online.
We have all kinds of chimney extras and fireplace accessories when it comes to the chimney supplies you need to keep everything working effectively and looking good.