What is the chain in my fireplace?
What is the chain in my fireplace?
A chain inside the firebox operates top-sealing dampers. When the damper is closed, the chain is pulled in and placed on a hook to keep the damper closed. Releasing the chain from the hook allows the damper to open. Chimney dampers are simple mechanisms, but they have a major impact on the function of your fireplace!
Should you open fireplace damper all the way?
When should the damper be kept open or closed? The fireplace damper should always be in the open position whenever you have a fire in the fireplace. Close the damper when the fire is extinguished. This will prevent the heated air from escaping through the chimney and will keep water and other debris out of the flue.
What is a damper clamp for a fireplace?
Damper clamps, also known as damper locks, are little pieces of hardware like the image above. Damper clamps keep the chimney’s damper from closing, allowing dangerous gases to escape the firebox in the case of a gas leak. This piece is imperative to home safety.
How much do dampers cost?
How Much does it Cost to Replace the Fireplace Chimney Damper?
| Low Estimate $10 – $80 | Average Cost Estimate $60 – $260 | |
|---|---|---|
| Damper Cost | $30 – $50 | $30 – $200 |
| Repair or Replace? | Clean and Repair | Repair / Replace |
| Installed By? | DIY | DIY |
| Supplies Cost | $10 – $20 | $10 – $20 |
How much does it cost to replace a fireplace damper?
Fireplace Damper Cost and Installation A chimney cap damper costs around $200 to $300, not including the screened chimney cap, which runs between $90 and $120. Professional installation of a new damper will likely run around $200 to $400 for labor, in addition to the cost of the new damper itself.
What is the purpose of a damper on a fireplace?
Fire dampers are used to help stop the passage of fire through the vents and ductwork systems. This helps to ensure that the fire does not spread to other parts of the building. The British Standard 9999 Code of practice for Fire Safety requires buildings that contain ducting of any kind must have them fitted with fire dampers.
Does my fireplace need a damper?
To be up to code, all fireplaces must have a damper. A functional damper opens and closes easily just by using the handle or lever; any damper that requires extra work to move is considered nonoperational and should be repaired. The damper in a gas fireplace should remain open all the time.
When to close fireplace damper?
Fireplace dampers are designed to be closed when the fireplace is not in use, thus keeping cold air from coming in and warm air from escaping. However, they absolutely need to be open before a fire is lit in the fireplace.
Should a fireplace flue damper always be completely open?
The damper should always be fully open before lighting a fire and when the fireplace is in use. Close it when it’s not it use. Operating the fireplace with the damper partially closed will not generate more heat. Instead, blocking the passage through the flue will result in smoke entering the home.
