Have you noticed a significant draft of cold air coming through your fireplace?
Now is the time of year when most homeowners appreciate a working fireplace. A roaring fire keeps you warm through the cold winter weather. But what if it’s doing the opposite? You may have noticed a significant draft of cold air coming through your fireplace. The good news is that this is entirely avoidable. Here are some best ways to keep cold air out of your fireplace and home.
Chimney Dampers
A proper damper is the best way to keep cold air from entering your home through the fireplace. Dampers are placed within your flue and can be opened or closed to cut off airflow.
Your chimney most likely has a damper installed already. But it might have to be replaced if you can still feel significant cold air coming through even with it closed. Over time, dampers can warp or develop other damage. In this case, replacement is typically the best option.
In instances of extreme cold, one damper might not do the trick. But two will. The second damper can go at the top of the flue for an extra insulation layer. These are called ‘top-sealing dampers.’
Chimney Balloons
You may have come across chimney balloons if you’ve searched the web about your chimney draft. You blow them up in your chimney, and they block cold air. However, they are not especially effective—not to mention that you won’t be able to use your fireplace when using a chimney balloon. But if you don’t intend to use your fireplace, investing in a heavier-duty chimney plug or stopper can work, and it might be more economical than a new damper.
A Pair of Chimney Doors
If all else fails, another way to keep cold air from escaping from your chimney is by installing chimney doors. A good pair of fireplace doors look nice and will help somewhat to keep your home warm. If you find that your fireplace doors do little to keep cold air out, investing in a sturdier pair could do the trick.
Another important step you should take is to schedule a chimney inspection. We’re sure you already did that this year, but it might be helpful to schedule another one and specifically ask for them to inspect your chimney’s insulation. For this, they will have to get on your roof to examine the flashing and chimney cap.
Schedule Your Chimney Cleaning from Champion Chimneys, Inc.
When you need a trusted company for your chimney inspection and chimney cleaning, you can trust our team. Champion Chimneys, Inc. is a fully licensed, bonded, and insured chimney service company that has served customers in Baltimore County, Howard County, and Anne Arundel County, Maryland, since 2001. Our team is trained and certified by Certified Chimney Professionals, Inc. (CCP, Inc.). We specialize in all aspects of your chimney system. Whether you need chimney and flue cleaning service or a full chimney rebuild or inspection, contact us at 443-Chimney today and let us fix all your chimney problems. Also, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Pinterest.