For Fireplace Damper Repair in Memphis, We’re the Crew To Call
You go to use your fireplace after a long day, first and foremost opening the damper…only to realize the damper is stuck shut. Or maybe you’re aiming to shut it tight when you’re done using your fireplace, and notice that there still seems to be a draft sneaking through. Whatever the issue, we have the fireplace damper repair solutions you’re seeking here in the Memphis area.
Questions? Need to book an appointment? Just reach out. Call or book a spot with us online now.
Why Do I Need a Fireplace or Chimney Damper?
Every chimney should be equipped with a damper, which is designed to close off the flue opening when a fire isn’t burning in the fireplace. It’s important to have a functioning, intact damper, because the damper is working to:
- Protect the chimney system against water intrusion
- Improve the chimney’s (and your home’s) energy efficiency
- Prevent downdrafts from bringing smoke and cold air into the home
- Keep animals and debris from entering the chimney
- Reduce heating and cooling costs by sealing off the chimney when not in use
- Enhance indoor air quality by preventing drafts and outside air pollutants from entering
- Improve fire safety by controlling airflow to the fire (which can help manage the fire’s intensity and prevent it from getting too large)
Without a properly functioning damper to close off the flue, you’ll end up wasting money and energy to heat and cool the air inside of your home.
How Does a Fireplace Damper Work?
The damper is usually located at the top of the firebox or within the throat of the chimney, where it can effectively regulate airflow and ventilation. That said, modern advancements have introduced the top-sealing damper, which is a damper that seals at the top of the flue, near the chimney cap.
Regardless of the damper type, it can be controlled using a lever, handle, or chain mechanism that extends into the fireplace or is located on the side of the firebox.
When the damper is open, it allows air to flow freely through the chimney, facilitating combustion and draft efficiency. When the damper is closed, it seals off the chimney to prevent heat loss and downdrafts when the fireplace is not in use.
Some dampers are equipped with safety features, such as a locking mechanism or heat-resistant handle to prevent accidental opening or closing during operation and to ensure safe use of the fireplace.
Can a fireplace damper help me control my fires?
Definitely. The damper can be adjusted to various positions between fully open and fully closed to control the amount of air entering and exiting the chimney. The amount of oxygen a fire is getting from outside can have significant impacts on how strongly it burns.
- A wide open damper, for instance, will create a hotter, stronger fire.
- A damper that’s partially shut, on the other hand, will start encouraging flames to die out.
Why Would My Damper Need To Be Replaced Or Repaired?
Dampers fail for a variety of reasons. Throat dampers, in particular, are known to:
- get stuck in place because of debris or creosote buildup
- get jostled off the track they’re seated on
- corrode or rust into place as a result of a leak or unprotected system
A damaged, stuck or decaying damper is something that should be addressed and repaired as soon as possible, particularly if the damper is stuck in the closed position. A damper that cannot properly open creates a fireplace and chimney system that is unsafe for use.
If your damper is damaged, give Coopertown Services a call. We can assess the damage and suggest the best way to repair it, whether that means repairing your throat damper or replacing it with a top-sealing damper.
Dial our number or reach out online today.
The Different Kinds of Dampers You’ll Commonly See
There are two main types of dampers that you’ll find in a chimney system:
Throat Dampers
Many older homes and chimneys have throat dampers installed low in the chimney, just above the firebox. These dampers have a metal plate that blocks off the flue when the fireplace or stove isn’t in use.
The metal plate has a couple of drawbacks: 1) it closes the flue, but doesn’t seal it and 2) over time, if water gets into the system, it can rust, corrode or break.
When we repair chimney dampers, they are most often throat dampers. Many homeowners opt to replace a damaged throat damper with a top-sealing damper, which seals the flue off completely and is much easier and faster to install.
Top-Sealing Dampers
A top-sealing damper is installed at the top of the flue, and uses a silicone gasket to completely seal off the chimney. These offer a marked increase in energy efficiency, since air transfer between the inside and outside of your home is drastically minimized.
Top-sealing dampers also provide far better protection against water and are the preferred choice with most homeowners today.
If you need a chimney damper repaired or replaced, call Coopertown Services at 901-358-7777 or reach out online to schedule an appointment!
How Do I Know if My Fireplace Damper Is Working Properly? (Or Not?)
There are actually a few ways you can do an assessment of your damper to see whether or not it’s operating well and not damaged. That said, only a certified chimney sweep can offer the most thorough and in-depth analysis – as well as present the best solutions. If you suspect issues, call us in to perform a chimney inspection. In the meantime, try the following:
- Perform a visual inspection.
Open the damper fully and visually inspect it to ensure there are no obvious signs of damage, rust, or debris obstructing its movement. You can also check for any cracking, as well as look for any gaps between the damper and the chimney throat when it is closed, as this could indicate a faulty seal.
- Test the operation of the damper.
Open and close your damper several times to see if it moves freely and smoothly. Pay attention to any unusual noises, resistance, or difficulty in opening or closing the damper, as these could indicate mechanical issues.
You could also light a small piece of paper or a match in the fireplace and observe the smoke. If the smoke rises steadily up the chimney and does not enter the room, the damper is likely functioning correctly. However, if smoke enters the room or drafts occur, it may indicate a problem with the damper seal or operation.
- Do a temperature test.
On a cold day when the fireplace is not in use, close the damper and place your hand near the fireplace opening. Feel for any drafts of cold air coming from the fireplace, as this could indicate that the damper is not sealing properly.
- Book a professional inspection.
OK, we know we said it once already…but it’s worth repeating!
If you’re unsure about the condition or operation of your fireplace damper, having it inspected by a qualified chimney professional is always going to be your best bet. They can conduct a thorough inspection, identify any issues, and recommend the most suitable repair or replacement options.
Regular maintenance and inspection of your fireplace damper are essential to ensure proper functionality, energy efficiency, and safety. If you notice any signs of damage, malfunction, or inefficiency, it’s important to address them promptly to prevent further issues and ensure the continued enjoyment of your fireplace.
Book with us today – we’ve got your back!
Should I Keep My Damper Open or Closed When the Fireplace Is Not in Use?
It is generally recommended to keep your fireplace damper closed when the fireplace is not in use. This helps prevent warm air from escaping up the chimney and cold air from entering the room, which will improve energy efficiency and reduce heating costs, especially during cold weather.
This goes for keeping conditioned in your home during the warm months too!
In addition, an open damper can create drafts by allowing cold air to enter the room through the chimney. Downdrafts can also cause smoke, odors, and debris to enter the home, creating discomfort and potential health hazards. Closing the damper helps block these drafts and maintains a more comfortable indoor environment.
So, there ya go – when your fireplace isn’t in use, shut the damper!
Note: Just be sure you open it again before getting any more flames going though! Failure to open the damper before starting a fire can lead to smoke buildup, poor combustion, and potential carbon monoxide exposure.
Don’t Hesitate – Give Us a Holler!
It’s clear – a properly functioning damper is essential for maintaining the safety, efficiency, and comfort of your fireplace. Whether you need a simple repair or a full replacement, our team at Coopertown Services has the expertise to get your system – and all of its components – back in tip-top shape.
Don’t let a malfunctioning damper cause drafts, energy loss, or safety hazards in your home.
For reliable and professional fireplace damper repair in Memphis, contact Coopertown Services at 901-358-7777 – or book with us online – today. We’re here to help you enjoy your fireplace to the fullest!
We can add chimney seals for wasps, insects, and air to your home. At Coopertown Services, our chimney and fireplace services crews are ready to help.