Most masonry chimneys are built with a throat damper above the firebox to regulate the flow of air. Top-mount chimney dampers go at the top of your exterior chimney and also regulate air flow. But they do a whole lot more.
The Chimney Guys install versatile top-mount dampers throughout the Greater Columbus region. Here are some things you’ll want to know about these components if you’re currently using a standard throat damper.
Top-Mount Damper Design
A top-mount damper consists of a flat covering that shields the complete top area of your chimney. It’s operated by a cable that’s controlled by a convenient regulator handle with a spring release system, making it easier to use than a throat damper.
When the fireplace is in use, the damper top is fully up. At other times, the top closes with a secure seal to completely secure the top of your chimney.
The design is extremely simple, but the benefits are great.
Benefits of a Top-Mount Damper
Shield Against Water Intrusion
With a top-sealing chimney damper, you’ll have a foolproof way to keep water from moving into the chimney system. Intruding water can damage chimney liners, interior chimney masonry, materials of the home and more.
Keep Animals and Debris Out
Along with rain and snow, a top-mount damper prevents tree debris and small animals, such as birds and squirrels, from getting into the chimney. Debris and animal nests obstruct drafting and can send smoke and deadly carbon monoxide into your home.
Keep the Flue Warmer
Super-cold flue air can block smoke and cause backups, a common problem all around the Columbus, OH, area. The reason for the problem is that cold air is heavier than warm air. With a tight top-mount damper, you’ll help to keep the flue air more temperate than with a standard throat damper, resulting in a warmer flue, a better draft, fewer backups and easier fire-starting.
Prevent Air Exchange
With a secure damper system at the top of your chimney, you’ll keep conditioned air inside your home and unconditioned air outside of it, thereby saving money on utility costs.
Reduce Downdrafts
An open chimney top plus an open throat damper creates the perfect environment for wind to blow down the chimney and scatter sparks, embers and ashes all over the room. A top-sealing damper greatly reduces the chance of this happening.
Get a New Top-Mount Damper for Your Columbus Chimney
Is your throat damper rusted and hard to operate? Do you have a lot of trouble regulating the draft? Do you suspect that air is escaping your home when the fireplace isn’t in use?
A top-sealing chimney damper is the solution.
The Chimney Guys installs these versatile dampers and also provides chimney sweeping, chimney repairs, chimney inspections, flue cleaning and the installation of fireplaces and stoves.
Since 2004, we’ve served customers in Columbus OH, Gahanna OH, New Albany OH, Reynoldsburg OH, Westerville OH, Heath OH, Grove City OH, Hilliard OH, Dublin OH, Canal Winchester OH, Granville OH, and many other Ohio communities.
Reach us at (614) 446-1221 or get in touch with our contact form.
