A failing chimney damper is very frustrating. Most chimney dampers are located in the throat of a chimney and feature a metal disk that closes on a metal rim. Over time, that metal warps and rusts due to the heat of your fireplace and moisture that finds its way in. When a damper degrades or fails completely, you’re left with lots of problems. It causes your damper to fail to open and close easily, and even when closed, it might let air into your home.
If your chimney damper is no longer working, a top-sealing chimney damper is the solution and perfect fit for you. A top-sealing damper sits on the top opening of your chimney flue, rather than within the chimney. It’s operated with a lever or chain down inside the firebox. Top-sealing chimney dampers either pivot open on a hinge or pop open on a collapsible metal frame. They offer a host of benefits than throat dampers. Here are some of the advantages of a top-sealing damper.
A complete seal against the cold
Even brand new throat dampers do a poor job of sealing out the cold when your chimney isn’t in use. That’s because the metal construction doesn’t allow for a complete seal. As a damper ages, the problem only get worse. A top-sealing chimney damper features a rubber gasket that completely seals off the opening of your chimney flue when your chimney isn’t in use. The tight seal prevents warm air from rising up your chimney, and it blocks cold drafts from blowing down through the chimney.
Protection against moisture
Nothing damage your chimney and fireplace like moisture. A chimney cap and a properly constructed chimney crown can help prevent rain, snow and sleet from your chimney flue. It’s impossible to keep moisture from entering your chimney and damaging your chimney liner and fireplace. However, a top-sealing damper can offer a tight seal, this prevents moisture from entering your chimney when the damper is closed. The pop-up dampers even keep your chimney covered when your fireplace is in use and damper is open.
Odor prevention
Your chimney holds a lot of smells, from damp musty odors to the pungent, burning smell of creosote. These odors can enter your house if your chimney drafts in the wrong direction. However, top-sealing dampers block foul odors from coming down your chimney and home.
Enjoy the benefits of a top-sealing chimney damper this winter! If your chimney damper is failing or struggling with cold air, moisture or foul odors entering your chimney, call Total Chimney Care! We can install a top-sealing damper on your chimney flue today!