Why You Should Close Your Damper In The Summer

Your damper plays an essential role in the overall fire process. But it may not be as clear what it does when a fire isn’t going on. It actually has an important function year-round to ensure the most comfortable environment possible. Your damper, regardless of type, serves as the regulator of air between the inside of your home and the outside world.

3 Benefits to Closing Your Damper In The Summer

• Help to keep your home comfortable – closed dampers keep the cool, comfortable air conditioning inside your home. Not only will this ensure optimal comfort, but it’ll also reduce waste and higher electric bills.
• Minimize the residual fire smells – it’s no secret that creosote and soot can leave an unpleasant smell. That cozy fire smell isn’t as pleasant as it is when it sits and mixes with moist, humid air. Closing the fireplace damper helps to keep these smells out. Still struggling with a lingering smell? Make sure to schedule your annual chimney sweep if you haven’t yet.
• One extra barrier to keep debris out – while your chimney cap blocks out most debris, rain, and animals, a damper adds another level of security. Small debris, such as twigs and leaves, may find their way past a cap, but with a damper, you’re less apt to see them in your firebox.

Why Not To Keep Your Damper Open

Some people recall hearing benefits to keeping their damper open during the summertime. These myths claim that keeping your damper open promotes the warm air up and out of your home. However, the opposite is actually true. An open damper is a clear path for hot air from outside to travel into your home. Why? Because there is no dense smoke blowing up and out.

Another misconception, is that an open damper will help contribute to air circulation which can help dry out the chimney. But the hot weather and humidity can contribute to the moisture in creosote. Not only can this make for more flammable conditions, it will also add to the residual fire smells.

Is My Chimney Damper Damaged?

Sometimes chimney dampers act a bit finicky. If you’re experiencing difficulty opening or closing it, notice drafts, smoke or odor issues, or rust and warping, your chimney damper may be the culprit. If you have reason to believe your chimney damper isn’t functioning correctly, it may be time to call the professionals for a repair.

In Need of Damper Repair? Call Fire N Stone Today

Fire N Stone is a full-service chimney service that can help if you are in need of a new chimney liner or repairs. We’re the local, trusted team to call for assistance. No matter the severity of your liner issues, our experts can handle it. We also support our clients with routine chimney maintenance, masonry repair, or even outdoor kitchen installation. We never subcontract our work, which means you work with the same trusted team the entire time.