How do you know if your fireplace damper is closed?

You will know pretty quick if the damper is closed when smoke comes pouring into the house. We recommend the following- Keep a fireplace poker or metal rod close to the fireplace. Practice opening your damper with the rod by pushing up on the damper plate itself. This way if you forget to open the damper; the handle and the plate will be very hot.

Where is the damper on the top of a chimney?

It basically looks like a metal flap that opens and closes by pulling or pushing a lever near the damper. Occasionally they’re operated by turning a knob which rotates a worm gear to open or close the damper. The second type of damper is a top mount, or top sealing damper located at the top of the chimney.

How does a cast iron fireplace damper work?

It is the most common damper type and consists of a cast iron frame that is built into the fireplace at the time of construction. A damper plate then sits inside the frame and is operated by a worm gear or what is known as a poker assembly. The most common issue in a poker style is when a damper plate jumps its track or flips over.

What to do if your throat damper doesn’t close?

If your damper doesn’t close tight, you will be loosing valuable heat from your house through your chimney. To prevent heat loss it’s important to make sure the throat damper is clean from debris and creates the tightest seal possible. Keep in mind that cast iron or steel throat dampers are notoriously inefficient.

Where does the damper go on a fireplace?

The top mount damper is placed on the top of the flue lining and has a control cable running down the inside of the flue. The handle is then attached to bracket in the fireplace. The handle which is normally on the fireplace face will just turn and the damper will not open.

Why is my metal chimney damper not closing?

Over time the metal damper will either warp or become covered with rust, creosote and ashes which prevent the damper from closing tight and creating a good seal. If your damper doesn’t close tight, you will be loosing valuable heat from your house through your chimney.

Where is the damper plate on a poker?

A damper plate then sits inside the frame and is operated by a worm gear or what is known as a poker assembly. The most common issue in a poker style is when a damper plate jumps its track or flips over. The damper plate itself sits in a small groove at the bottom of the frame.