
Key Takeaways
- •Top-mount dampers seal better than traditional throat dampers
- •A damaged or missing damper wastes significant energy
- •Dampers also keep animals and debris out
Chimney Damper Installation at a Glance
- Throat damper installation
- Top-mount damper installation
- Lock-top damper systems
- Damper repair services
- Energy efficiency improvement
At Chimney Sweep Champ, our chimney damper installation services are designed to keep your home safe and your fireplace operating efficiently. We provide expert chimney inspection along with chimney restoration to homeowners throughout the our service areas area.
The Importance of a Good Damper
Your chimney damper controls airflow when the fireplace is not in use. A properly sealing damper prevents conditioned air from escaping up the chimney and stops cold air from entering your home. A missing, damaged, or poorly sealing damper can significantly increase your heating and cooling costs.
Types of Chimney Dampers
Two main types of dampers are used in chimneys, each with distinct advantages for different situations.
- Throat dampers - Located just above the firebox, traditional design
- Top-mount dampers - Mounted at the chimney top, superior seal
- Lock-top dampers - Combine damper and cap functions
- Cast iron dampers - Durable traditional throat dampers
- Stainless steel dampers - Corrosion-resistant, long-lasting
Top-Mount Damper Benefits
Top-mount dampers have become the preferred choice for many homeowners. They provide a much tighter seal than throat dampers, sealing with a rubber gasket rather than metal-to-metal contact. They also serve as a chimney cap, keeping out rain, animals, and debris. A cable inside the chimney controls opening and closing from the firebox level.
When to Replace Your Damper
Several signs indicate your damper needs replacement. If you feel a draft from your fireplace when it is not in use, if your damper is stuck or difficult to operate, or if you notice rust and deterioration, replacement will improve comfort and reduce energy costs.
- Cold drafts from closed fireplace
- Damper stuck open or closed
- Visible rust or deterioration
- Difficulty operating the handle
- Gaps visible when damper is closed
Chimney Damper Installation Service Areas
We provide chimney damper installation services throughout the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. Select your city below to learn more about our local services.
Frequently Asked Questions About Chimney Damper Installation About Chimney Services in our service areas
What is the difference between throat and top-mount dampers in our service areas?
Throat dampers are located just above the firebox and seal with metal-to-metal contact. Top-mount dampers sit at the chimney top, seal with a rubber gasket for a tighter closure, and also function as a chimney cap in our service areas.
How much energy can a new damper save in our service areas?
A leaking damper can lose significant conditioned air. While savings vary by climate and home, many homeowners notice reduced heating and cooling costs after installing a top-sealing damper. The damper typically pays for itself within a few years in our service areas.
Can I install a damper myself in our service areas?
While some dampers are marketed for DIY installation, professional installation ensures proper sizing, secure mounting, and correct cable adjustment. Improper installation can affect operation and safety in our service areas.
Do gas fireplaces have dampers in our service areas?
Gas fireplaces typically have fixed venting rather than operable dampers, as they require constant ventilation for safety. Some have clamp-open devices to prevent accidental closure. Never close a damper on a gas fireplace in our service areas.
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