Total Chimney Care Provides Branford With Quality Chimney & Venting Services
Branford homeowners turn to Total Chimney Care for expert chimney, fireplace, and venting services. Whether you need a chimney sweep, fireplace repair, or a complete system evaluation, our experienced chimney professionals deliver the care and attention your home deserves. We’re proud to be trusted local chimney experts near you – reach out now.
We Offer Reliable Fireplace & Chimney Sweep Services You Can Count On
We serve Branford, as well as many surrounding towns and cities, such as East Haven, Guilford, North Branford, New Haven, Madison, North Haven, West Haven, Hamden, Wallingford, Milford, and more. Don’t wait to reach out if you need any of the following:
- Chimney & Fireplace Sweeping
- Oil, Gas & Propane Utility Flue Cleaning
- Chimney & Fireplace Inspections
- Chimney & Fireplace Repairs & Installs
- Firebox Repairs
- Chimney Relining
- Chimney Damper Replacement
- Chimney Cap Installation
- Chase Cover Replacement
- Chimney Leak Repair
- Chimney Waterproofing
- Flashing Repair
We also offer dryer vent cleaning services. To schedule, give us a call or reach out online now.
Why Won’t My Chimney Damper Open or Close Properly?
A chimney damper that doesn’t open or close properly isn’t just an annoyance…it can have a big impact on your energy bills and how comfortable your home feels. Several factors can contribute to a malfunctioning damper, such as:
- Rust or corrosion: Dampers are typically made of metal, and over time, they can rust or corrode, especially if the chimney isn’t regularly cleaned or maintained. Rust buildup can cause the damper to stick or become difficult to move, preventing it from opening or closing smoothly.
- Debris or creosote buildup: Creosote, a byproduct of burning wood, can accumulate inside the chimney and around the damper, creating a sticky layer that traps the damper shut. Additionally, debris such as soot, leaves, or twigs can accumulate on the damper and block its movement.
- Damaged or broken damper mechanism: Over time, the mechanisms that operate the damper (such as cables, handles, or springs) can wear out or break. If this happens, the damper may be difficult or impossible to open or close.
- Warped or misaligned damper: The damper itself may become warped due to extreme heat or age, causing it to no longer fit properly in the chimney. In some cases, the damper may become misaligned with its track, preventing smooth movement.
- Improper installation: If the damper was installed incorrectly from the beginning, it may never function properly. It could be misaligned, or there may be an issue with the way the damper mechanism was set up, leading to problems with its movement.
If you’re having issues with your fireplace damper, first check for any visible signs of rust, debris, or damage. Gently try to move the damper with the handle to see if it’s simply stuck or if something is obstructing its movement.
In most cases, a chimney sweep will need to be called in to resolve damper-related issues. Not only is this area especially hard to reach, but malfunctions are typically caused by things that only a professional can resolve. Need some help? We’re here for you – reach out now.
What’s the Best Kind of Chimney Damper To Install?
When choosing a chimney damper, one of the best options available is the top-sealing damper. This type of damper offers several advantages over traditional throat dampers, making it a top suggestion from chimney sweeps, no matter where you live.
What is a top-sealing damper, exactly?
A top-sealing damper is a modern alternative to the traditional throat damper. Unlike throat dampers, which are located just above the firebox (at the base of the chimney), top-sealing dampers are installed at the top of the chimney, right where the flue opens. Top-sealing dampers are known for creating an airtight seal, preventing heat loss, moisture entry, and drafts.
Why upgrade to a top-sealing damper?
One of the biggest benefits of top-sealing dampers is that they improve your home’s energy efficiency levels. Traditional dampers are often leaky, allowing heat or conditioned air to escape through the chimney when the fireplace is not in use. A top-sealing damper forms an airtight seal at the top of the chimney, keeping your home tighter, your living space more comfortable, and your energy bills in check.
Top-sealing dampers also help the chimney cap in effectively keeping moisture, rain, snow, and even animals from entering the chimney when the fireplace is not in use. Moisture is one of the primary causes of chimney damage, so any extra help in combatting it is welcome in the chimney industry.
Another thing? Top-sealing dampers help eliminate uncomfortable drafts that can occur when cold air enters the chimney and flows into your living space. And because they seal at the top of your flue, cold air won’t fill the chimney when it’s not in use (someone that can make fires harder to start up and can cause living room temps to drop).
And as if that weren’t enough, Modern top-sealing dampers are often operated by a cable system or remote control, making them easier to use compared to manual throat dampers. With a simple turn or pull of a handle, you can open or close the damper with ease.
Ready to make the switch? We’d be happy to help you through it. Reach out today.
Your Branford Chimney Sweep: We Love This Area
Branford, CT is a scenic shoreline town just east of New Haven. With its island-dotted harbor, walkable downtown, and strong community spirit, Branford stands out as a great place to live and visit.
Branford’s crown jewel is the Thimble Islands, a stunning archipelago of about 100 small islands off the coast of the Stony Creek section. Some islands have quaint summer cottages, while others are wild and rocky.
Love exploring unique shops, cafes, and more? Branford’s town green is one of the most active in the state, featuring all types of stores and, oftentimes, community events. And Branford has a surprisingly large network of walking and hiking trails, thanks to the Branford Land Trust.
Other ways to spend your time include relaxing on Branford Point Beach, walking along Parker Memorial Park, exploring Blackstone Library, or grabbing a brew at Thimble Island Brewing Co.
Don’t feel like going out? Or maybe rainy weather is keeping you in? Regardless, an evening indoors is always better with a fireplace – and we’re here to ensure yours stays in tip-top shape. Book your next sweeping or repair with us today.
Branford Chimney Company: Make Us Your Go-To Team
In the coastal town of Branford, where sea breezes meet New England charm, Total Chimney Care is proud to provide superior chimney and venting services. We combine time-tested techniques with modern solutions to ensure your fireplace and venting systems operate as safely and efficiently as possible – year after year.
Trust Branford’s chimney experts – that’s us at Total Chimney Care. Call or book online today.
Did you know that our service area extends to Woodbridge? We’re proud to offer the best in chimney and fireplace care.