Installing a chimney damper is one of the most important steps in ensuring your home’s safety. A chimney damper prevents hot air from escaping through your fireplace when you are not using it, which can lead to a buildup of gases and cause an explosion! In this guide, we will cover everything from selecting the right type of damper for your needs to how to install it yourself.
A chimney damper is a device that can be installed in a masonry or metal chimney to regulate the draft and prevent downdrafts. A chimney damper may also refer to an insulated cover, usually made of wood, which prevents heat from escaping through the top of a fireplace during cold months. The most common use for this type of damper is when you want to close off your fireplace. In this article we will discuss how to install one!
Why you need a Chimney Damper?
A chimney damper is an essential piece of equipment for any home with a fireplace. A properly installed and functioning damper keeps heat in your home during the winter and out of your home during the summer. It also helps prevent smoke from entering your home when you are using your fireplace.
If you do not have a chimney damper, you risk losing heat up your chimney on cold days. You also run the risk of animals and insects entering your home through an open flue in your fireplace.
A damper can even be helpful when it is not winter or summer time because a closed chimney will prevent rain and other debris from getting into the lower areas of your home.
There are a few different types of chimney dampers, but the most common type is the standard damper. This type of damper is installed in the flue pipe and can be opened and closed with a lever or handle.
Other types of dampers include top mount dampers, which are mounted on the top of the chimney, and side mount dampers.
How to install a Chimney Damper?
There are a few different ways to install a chimney damper. The most common way is to install it in the flue liner. You can also install it in the smoke chamber or on top of the chimney.
To install it in the flue liner, you need to remove the cap from the top of the chimney. Then, you need to measure the width of the flue and buy a damper that is the right size. The damper will have a metal band with screws on it. You need to screw the band around the flue liner and then put the cap back on top of the chimney.
To install it in the smoke chamber, you need to remove the cap from the top of the chimney. Then, you need to measure the width of the smoke chamber and buy a damper that is the right size. The damper will have a metal band with screws on it. You need to screw the band around the smoke chamber and then put the cap back on top of the chimney.
To install it on top of the chimney, you need to buy a damper that is right for your specific flue size and put it on top of the existing cap (generally this will be an inch and a half). The damper should come with screws or bolts to attach it to the cap; if it doesn’t, you can use metal roofing nails. Be sure to seal the joints between the damper and cap with silicone caulk.
No matter which way you choose to install your chimney damper, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. And always have a qualified professional install your damper if you are not sure how to do it yourself.
What are the benefits of installing a Chimney Damper?
Consider the following:
- Keep your home safe from carbon monoxide poisoning. Carbon Monoxide is a by-product of wood burning and can be toxic to humans if inhaled in large enough quantities over time. A working chimney damper will ensure that you are not releasing this deadly gas into your living space when you’re not actively using your fireplace or wood stove.
- Reduce your energy costs. A chimney damper that is installed properly will ensure that you are not losing heat up the flue when it’s closed, making your house warmer during winter and cooler in summer. When combined with other air-sealing techniques to reduce drafts, this can save hundreds of dollars on energy bills each year.
- Save your fireplace from damage due to excessive heat or cold temperatures, caused by drafts that can blow in through an open chimney flue. Installing a Chimney Damper will reduce the amount of air you’re losing up the chimney and keep it at manageable levels for both the fireplace insert and the chimney itself.
So as you can see, there are a number of good reasons to install a Chimney Damper in your home. If you have a fireplace or wood stove, it’s definitely something to consider!
The different types of Chimney Dampers available
There are three main types of chimney dampers: the top-sealing damper, the side-sealing damper, and the throatsealing damper. The type of damper you need depends on the design of your chimney.
- The top-sealing damper is a simple device that fits into the top of one side of the chimney and seals tightly against the rain cap on top.
- The side-sealing damper is attached to a flange that fits into your chimney (usually near where it exits through the roof). It’s designed to seal tightly against another piece called the counterflashing, which extends out from under your roofing material and prevents water from leaking into the chimney.
- The throat-sealing damper is inserted into the flue of your chimney (usually near the top) and seals against the sides of the flue. It’s important to get a throat-sealing damper if your fireplace doesn’t have a good draft, because a poor draft can cause smoke to spill out of your chimney.
- The best type for you depends on the style and size of your fireplace, as well as what kind of fuel it uses. Generally speaking, top-sealing dampers are used most often with wood fireplaces; side-sealing dampers work better with oil or gas fireplaces; and throat-sealing dampers are best for use with coal burning fireplaces.
- Once you’ve decided on the type of damper you need, it’s time to start shopping! Most hardware stores and home improvement centers carry a wide variety of chimney dampers, so finding one shouldn’t be too difficult. Just make sure to get the right size for your chimney.
- When you’re ready to install your damper, be sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Different dampers require different installation procedures, so it’s important to use the right one. And always remember: safety first! Make sure that your ladder is stable and that there is nothing nearby that could cause you to fall.
You should also wear gloves and protective goggles, as well as a dust mask if the damper is dusty or dirty. Once your tools are ready, open up your chimney flue and insert the top of your new chimney damper into the opening at least halfway – don’t try to insert it all the way at first. Then, close up your chimney flue and begin turning or screwing in the fastener that holds the top of the damper into place. Once you’ve tightened this down securely, open up your chimney again and push on the rest of your new damper to slide it inside.
How to remove an old Chimney Damper and replace it with a new one?
Take out the old damper by removing its screws. You can use a screwdriver for this purpose, but you need to be very careful because it is easy to damage your chimney with hard metal objects like screwdrivers and drills. Make sure that even after removal of the screws there are some parts left in order to fix new one on the place.
Install new chimney damper with the help of screws, small nails and some metal parts for additional support. Make sure that damper is attached on both sides (up-down) in order to reduce air leakage while it’s closed or open. You can also use some fire cement if you don’t want it to get loose.
Reattach the damper cover and check if it’s airtight. You can use a candle for this purpose – when you blow it out near the damper, there should be no smoke coming from the chimney. If everything is done correctly, your new chimney damper will work perfectly and improve your fireplace efficiency.
How to remove an old Chimney Damper and replace it with a new one?
Take out the old damper by removing its screws. You can use a screwdriver for this purpose, but you need to be very careful because it is easy to damage your chimney with hard metal objects like screwdrivers and drills. Make sure that even after removal of the screws there are some parts left in order to fix new one on the place.
Install new chimney damper with the help of screws, small nails and some metal parts for additional support. Make sure that damper is attached on both sides (up-down) in order to reduce air leakage while it’s closed or open. You can also use some fire cement if you don’t want it to get loose.
Reattach the damper cover and check if it’s airtight. You can use a candle for this purpose – when you blow it out near the damper, there should be no smoke coming from the chimney. If everything is done correctly, your new chimney damper will work perfectly and improve your fireplace efficiency.
Troubleshooting tips for your new or Existing Damper
If you are having trouble with your damper, there are a few things that you can do to troubleshoot the issue:
- Make sure that the damper is installed properly. It should be flush against the flue and fit tightly.
- Check to make sure that the chimney cap is in good condition and is not blocking the damper.
- Make sure that there is no obstruction in the chimney such as bird nests or leaves.
- If your damper is stuck open, try WD-40 or a lubricant to help loosen it up.
- If you are still having trouble with your damper after trying these tips, contact a local chimney sweep to help you identify the problem and fix it.
- Contact a professional if your damper is still not working after trying these troubleshooting tips or other recommended products/steps to resolve the issue.
Environmental Protection
A chimney damper is an important environmental protection device. It helps keep heated air in your home during the winter and cooled air in your home during the summer. A properly installed and functioning chimney damper can save you up to 30% on your energy bill.
There are two types of chimney dampers: top mount and side mount. A top mount damper is installed in the chimney flue above the firebox. A side mount damper is installed in the smoke chamber between the firebox and the chimney flue.
The type of damper you need depends on the type of chimney you have: masonry or metal. If you have a masonry chimney, you need a top mount damper. If you have a metal chimney, you need a side mount damper.
Safety Tips
When installing or repairing a chimney damper, always take precautions to ensure your safety. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Wear gloves and eye protection when working with metal mesh.
- Use caution when working with sharp tools.
- Be aware of the potential for sparks when using a drill or saw.
- Avoid working near flammable materials.
- Make sure the area around the chimney is clear before starting work.
If you’re not comfortable with installing a damper yourself, it’s best to call in a professional. A qualified technician will have the experience and tools necessary to get the job done safely and correctly.
FAQs
How do I know if my chimney needs a damper?
If you don't have a damper, or it's not working properly, heat and smoke will escape from your fireplace. You'll also lose heated air up the chimney, costing you money. A professional can inspect your chimney to determine whether it needs a damper.
How much does a damper cost?
Dampers range in price from around $50 to more than $200, depending on the type and size of your chimney.
Do I have to hire a professional to install a damper?
No, you can install a damper yourself, but you should hire a professional to inspect your chimney before you install.
Where can I find more information about building codes and regulations?
The Chimney Safety Institute of America is an excellent resource for up-to-date federal, state, county and local code requirements. They also offer classes on how properly use fireplaces in residential homes.
Conclusion
You have successfully installed a chimney damper! If you choose to, or need to remove it in the future, be sure that all screws are removed and then re-install as before.