Chimney dampers are an important part of chimney operation. What are chimney dampers? A chimney damper is a special type of damper that creates a special type of protection for your chimney flue in order to prevent heated air from entering your home.
Why Do I Need Chimney Dampers?
How do chimney dampers work? First, a damper is installed at the bottom of the chimney flue. Second, the damper is sealed around the top of the chimney cap. Thirdly, the damper is connected to a gasket or liner.
Types of Chimney Dampers
Today, there are many different types of chimney dampers available to consumers. Some are even made with different types of materials such as fiberglass and thermoplasticucent (TPR). There are other types of chimney dampers that use stainless steel or iron instead of aluminum or copper. The most common type of chimney dampers is the fiberglass and TPR types. Both of these materials are highly resistant to corrosion and have very good insulating properties.
Why are chimney dampers used?
First, chimney dampers prevent heat from entering your home from the outside. This will cut down on your electric bill because you will not need to use your furnace to heat your home. In addition, the damper prevents smoke from entering into your home. It also acts as an additional layer of insulation against the elements by acting as a vapor barrier. This will keep your heating and cooling costs down.
How do chimney dampers work?
A fiberglass or TPR damper is placed at the bottom of your chimney. Next, it is sealed around the top of the chimney cap. The damper then draws all of the hot air up into the chimney cap so only the cool air exits the chimney. In turn, this keeps your home cooler and therefore you will save money on your heating and cooling costs.
Are there any differences between wood fired stoves and vent free chimney dampers?
Although both are effective at preventing heat and/or smoke from entering your home, the difference between the two is that a wood fired stove has a flue that must be maintained regularly and is not always open. On the other hand, a vent free chimney damper is open all the way and will keep out any smoke or fumes that might cause a fire.
Do I need both chimney dampers and a top-sealing chimney damper?
If your chimney is not vented to the exterior of your home, then you do not need a top-sealing chimney damper and vice versa. A chimney flue should be kept open at all times to allow for excess moisture to escape. If your chimney damper is obstructed by leaves, debris, or snow, it is not necessary to keep it open at all times. However, it is important to regularly maintain your chimney flue in order to prevent damage, which could lead to a fire.
Will my chimney dampers and throat damper deteriorate over time?
A good quality chimney damper and throat damper will last for many years provided that they are taken care of. However, you may have to have your damper or flue inspected and serviced by a professional periodically. There are some things that can deteriorate over time such as the mesh seal at the top of the chimney flue, which will loosen over the years and allow water into the chimney which could potentially ignite dry leaves and other types of debris.