|
Its Functioning
Regular monitoring of Fireplace Dampers are required. They need to be checked time to time for safety purpose. Generally the dampers have a metal-to-metal form that prevents leakage. With some of the newer fireplace designs, closed dampers can be particularly dangerous because burners can be combust by the simple flip of a switch. If in case the damper does not work properly, fireplace begins losing its effectiveness. Dampers are very cost effective and easily be repaired or replaced by a professional with little trouble.
Before lighting a fire, the damper should be completely opened. Some people try to operate the fireplace with the damper partly closed just to generate more heat into the room. But instead of providing more heat, it results into smoke. So forget about efficiency and open the damper until the fire is out.
Purposes of Dampers
A fireplace damper has two major functions to serve. During the course of the fire, it can be easily adjusted to permit reduced airflow up to the chimney and therefore, resulting in less heat loss. It is constructed to provide a comparatively tight seal when closed. Some fireplaces have in-built dampers which are made to open-close quite often. An open damper is like an open window, allowing huge amounts of heated air to escape.