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A fireplace damper my go unnoticed by most homeowners, but it is an integral part of the operation of any home fireplace. An improperly used or malfunctioning fireplace damper can result in an inefficient fireplace - especially when not being used.
The fireplace damper is usually located above the actual fireplace in the throat of the chimney just above the firebox. The function of the damper is to seal the fireplace when not in use. This is important because without a proper seal, heated air from your home will escape right up the chimney. From a home efficiency standpoint, air escaping up the chimney is like throwing money out the window. An open or leaky damper can add hundreds to the cost of heating your home in the winter.
The majority of home fireplace dampers are made of metal. Properly functioning dampers should form a seal which should allow for no air to seep through. As a fireplace ages however, the metal plates that form the damper oftentimes become warped due to the effects of heat and moisture. As the seal worsens, more and more air can escape up the chimney - even if the damper is closed.
If your fireplace is more than 20 years old, it is suggested that you hire a professional to check your damper to determine its efficiency in keeping warm air in and cold air out. If the damper is not operating correctly, a new damper will save money for many years, making the investment pay off handsomely.
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