Chimney Damper Repair & Replacement Services: Call Mr. Smokestack Chimney Service
With the costs of energy feeling like they are increasing nearly every day, it’s even more important to make sure your chimney damper is in optimal condition. Your chimney damper not only minimizes heat loss, it also maximizes energy efficiency in your home.
From different types of dampers (and how they function) to essential maintenance tips to when to consider a replacement, we’ve got you covered. If you have more questions related to chimney dampers or the services we provide, feel free to give us a call at 919-747-1859 or reach out to us online today.
What Is a Chimney Damper?
A chimney damper is a device located within the flue of your fireplace or stove. Its primary purpose is to control the flow of air and gases in and out of the chimney. But that’s not all. It also…
- helps control the efficiency and intensity of the fire
- prevents warm air in your home from escaping
- keeps air-conditioned air in your home
- stops cool or drafty outside air from coming in
- protects your home from curious critters and rainwater.
Whether you’re a homeowner looking to cut heating costs or are simply interested in improving the performance of your fireplace, Mr. Smokestack Chimney Service is here for you. Our mission is to provide valuable insights about your home’s heating system, and we’d be happy to help with any and all of your chimney damper issues.
What Are Common Signs of Chimney Damper Problems?
In order to maintain the safety and efficiency of your fireplace, it is important to regularly inspect and address any signs of chimney damper issues. Most people call upon the expertise of Mr. Smokestack Chimney Service when they start experiencing any of the following:
- Difficulty Opening or Closing: Chimney dampers are prone to wear and tear over time due to exposure to heat, smoke, moisture, and the elements. As a result, they can become hard to manually open and close fully.
- Excessive Draft: A malfunctioning damper can also make the passage of smoke and gas out of your home rather drafty. Instead of pulling it efficiently up and out through the chimney, a faulty damper may allow these byproducts to linger in your living space, compromising your indoor air quality.
- Poor Temperature Control: With a chimney damper that isn’t working correctly, it can be challenging to control the temperature in your home when using your fireplace. It could allow too much airflow, leading to an overly hot and uncomfortable living space, or it may restrict airflow, making it difficult to achieve the desired temperature.
- Strange Noises: Damaged or loose dampers can produce rattling or banging noises when the wind blows or when the fireplace is in use.
- Visible Damage: Because of its location, it can be hard to thoroughly inspect the condition of your chimney damper. However, if you are able to see it, look for signs of rust, corrosion, or physical damage, like bent or broken parts.
- Smoke Smells: If you notice smoky odors in your home, even when your fireplace isn’t in use, it could be a sign that the damper isn’t sealing properly.
- Cold or Warm Drafts: When the damper is not closing securely, cold outdoor air can enter your home through the chimney. The same can occur with warm air in the summertime.
- Water Leaks: Did you notice water in your firebox during the last rainfall? This could point to more than one issue with your chimney. Regardless, it’s important to address any issue with water leaks promptly to avoid extensive water damage and expensive repairs.
- Difficulty Starting a Fire: If the damper doesn’t fully open, it could hinder the start-up and proper combustion of your fireplace.
What Types of Chimney Dampers Are Available?
So you’ve determined you’re in need of a new chimney damper. Now what? Choosing the right damper for your fireplace is the next step in ensuring optimal performance and energy efficiency. There are two kinds of dampers that we install…
Throat Dampers
This is the most common and traditional type of damper that’s found in most fireplaces. They are typically installed just above the firebox, at the throat of the chimney (hence the name). A throat damper usually features a cast iron or steel handle that raises a large metal plate separating the firebox and the flue.
A throat damper has a few different variations for handles, this includes either a poker, rotary, or pivot. It is a simple, yet effective way to control airflow and draft within the chimney that has been used for years.
Top-Mounted Dampers
Also called chimney cap dampers or top-sealing dampers, these dampers feature a small, spring-loaded door located inside the cap at the top of the chimney. A steel cable is then run down the entire length of the chimney to a mounted handle in the fireplace.
This type of chimney damper is superior to the typical throat damper because the handle location is not only more convenient, but the damper itself has a silicone rubber gasket around the edge to ensure an air-tight seal. All in all, it better protects the chimney from moisture and debris, while effectively preventing heat loss. Pretty nifty, huh?
Which option is best for me?
Determining the best damper placement ultimately depends on several factors, including personal preferences, climate conditions, and specific fireplace needs. Unfortunately, there is never a one-size-fits-all answer.
Yet, with the help of certified chimney technicians at Mr. Smokestack Chimney Service, you can navigate this decision-making process with confidence. Our experts will inspect your chimney and fireplace, assess your unique circumstances, and help guide you towards the most suitable damper placement for your specific needs.
Mr. Smokestack Chimney Service is Dedicated to Chimney Care Excellence
With over 17 years of experience, it’s easy to see why homeowners trust Mr. Smokestack Chimney Service. Our extensive knowledge and dedication to chimney and fireplace care have earned us a solid reputation for reliability and excellence in the industry. We take great pride in our ability to address a wide range of chimney needs, from routine inspections and maintenance to complex damper installations and chimney repairs.
When you choose Mr. Smokestack Chimney Service, you’re choosing expertise you can count on. Give us a call at 919-747-1859 or book an appointment with us directly on our website. Let us help ensure the safety and efficiency of your fireplace for years to come.
One affordable way to protect from water damage is with chimney cap repair or replacement. We would love to talk with you about this convenient chimney repair.