Let’s learn about why chimney dampers are so significant.
Whether you own a traditional masonry chimney or a professionally installed chimney, dampers are significant. Metal or cast-iron dampers usually go in the throat of the chimney or at the chimney opening; these are called “top-sealing dampers.” Chimney dampers serve many purposes; without them, a chimney system cannot function properly. Today, we’re going to discuss in detail why chimney dampers are so significant.
How Does a Chimney Work?
When you’ve got a good fire going, that means that your chimney is functioning correctly. Chimneys use a system of drafts and air pressures inside and outside of your house to vent the fire. Without a chimney in place, especially a properly functioning chimney, it can cause a lot of issues for you, your home, and your family.
How Do Chimney Dampers Work?
Most fireplaces have a throat chimney damper. A throat chimney damper sits above the firebox in the fireplace, at the base of the chimney. The dampers feature a metal flap and a metal surround. When the fireplace is in use, the metal flap is opened with to allow smoke to pass through the damper. When the fireplace isn’t in use, the flap of the damper is closed against its frame to prevent air exchange between the home and the chimney.
What Are The Functions of Chimney Dampers?
Chimney dampers have many functions that all affect your health, safety, and comfort. If they are nonexistent or working incorrectly, it’s a disadvantage to your chimney system. Here are a few functions:
- Dampers control flames: During the winter, when your fireplace is most active, a damper helps you to start, control, and suppress a fire.
- Chimney dampers ensure your family’s safety: When your chimney works as it should, it keeps your family safer. Fireplaces and chimney systems have many parts and factors that work together to prevent harmful gases and particulate matter from entering the home. If a damper rusts or corrodes and becomes stuck, your chimney may not vent properly. So why does this matter? It puts your family at risk for breathing problems, carbon monoxide poisoning, or even worse, a chimney fire!
- They help you become summer-ready: Unless you live in a region that’s cold all-year-round, you’re most likely not going to use a fireplace during the summer, especially not in Maryland. When it’s time to close off your chimney, a chimney damper keeps nasty, stale odors from entering your home, especially when the air is humid.
Are you unsure of the status of your chimney damper? Then, give us a call. Our certified technicians can undeniably take care of all of your chimney inspection needs.
Call the Experts at Champion Chimneys for Chimney Cleaning Today!
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.). Courteous service is our trademark, and our crews arrive on time in uniform, driving fully equipped trucks. 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.