How do you add a damper to an existing fireplace?

How to Install a Fireplace Damper

Step 1 - Open the Fireplace Doors. Open the doors completely to your fireplace.
Step 3 - Remove the Existing Damper. Locate the damper and remove it from the chimney.
Step 4 - Purchase a New Damper. Take your old damper with you to a chimney supply store.
Step 5 - Install New Damper.
Step 6 - Open Damper.
Step 8 - Clean Up.

Just so, can you add a damper to a fireplace?

Both wood burning and gas fireplaces should have dampers to prevent energy loss, even if the chimney is not in use. A single flue chimney is very easy for damper installation. The damper will fit right up into the flue system and should sit above the smoke chamber.

Additionally, how do you install a damper? Open up the duct work, and drill two holes on opposite edges of the tube. These holes should line up with the pre-drilled holes on the damper. Remove the fasteners from the damper, connect it to the duct through these holes and into the drilled holes, and tighten. Then, seal both sides with duct tape.

Similarly, how much does it cost to put a damper in a fireplace?

The average cost to repair or replace the damper in your fireplace or chimney is around $60 for damper door replacement only, with DIY installation. If the frame needs to be replaced as well, plan on $350-$400 and a Pro to do the job.

Do all fireplaces have a damper?

Every Fireplace has a chimney damper. This is a movable plate that sits above the fireplace before the flue. If you pull the lever toward you, generally that will open most of the dampers. When the damper is closed, it helps to keep heated air from going up the chimney.

36 Related Question Answers Found

Is a damper and flue the same thing?

The flue is simply the open middle of the chimney that the smoke goes up. Dampers are sometimes miss-called flues or flutes, but they are something entirely different than the flue. A damper is intended to shut off- either fully or partially- the chimney flue.

Can you use fireplace without damper?

A damper gives you the ability to slow a fire while burning and to close off the chimney when not in use. Note they don't close perfectly tight. However, a wood burning fireplace is for looks only. The net heat loss, especially without a damper, far more than any heat they give off.

What does a damper do in a fireplace?

A fireplace damper, usually located in the throat of a masonry chimney just above the firebox, is a device that is meant to seal your fireplace shut when it is not in use. This is necessary so that heated air from your home will not escape up the chimney when the fireplace is not being used.

Should fireplace damper be open all the way?

The damper should always be fully open before lighting a fire and when the fireplace is in use. Close it when it's not it use. The damper should be kept open until all embers are finished burning to prevent smoke from escaping into the home. When the fireplace is not in use, the damper should always be closed.

Can I leave the flue open overnight?

Leave the damper open overnight. Yes, you will lose some heat up the flue, but you will save the occupants of the home from poisoning by colorless, odorless carbon monoxide. In the morning, stir the embers and check them for any hot spots.

Is a fireplace damper necessary?

Like we said before, when your fireplace isn't in use, your chimney damper still has a job to do. An open chimney damper will allow air into your home, so if it's a cold night and you just can't seem to warm up, make sure that your chimney damper is closed.

How much does it cost to install dampers?

Power dampers:$85 to $175 for dampers for round branch ducts; $150 to $325 for large, rectangular dampers for large trunks. Wiring:$50 to $150 per system depending on the number of zones. Fasteners, mastic and tape for sealing ducts:$35 to $100+ for the entire job depending on the number of zones.

How do you fix a broken fireplace damper?

Step 1 - Clean. Clean your fireplace of all debris.
Step 2 - Find the Damper. Once you have cleaned your fireplace you will then need to locate the damper.
Step 3 - Remove the Damper.
Step 4 - Replacement Damper.
Step 5 - Attach the Replacement Damper.
Step 6 - Finishing Touches.

How much does it cost to waterproof a chimney?

Average cost $150 – $250. Why Do You Need Chimney Waterproofing? Chimneys are often times one of the most overlooked systems in our homes.

How do you lubricate a fireplace damper?

Puncture the seal of a high-temperature lubricant bottle and attach the syringe to its top. Apply the lubricant to the length of the hinge as you move the damper handle back and forth.

How much does it cost to put stone on a fireplace?

Stone Fireplace Average Cost

The national average cost for stone fireplace installation is $3,000 to $5,000, although an authentic masonry fireplace constructed by a stone craftsman could push the price tag up to $10,000 or more.

How do you install damper balancing?

To install a balancing damper, cut the metal or plastic duct band that holds the flex duct to the branch line. You can attach a balancing damper and collar directly to the end of the metal duct and then reattach the flex duct to the other end of the collar.

How do I know if my damper is open or closed?

Perform a visual check. Using a flashlight, poke your head inside the fireplace to look up into the chimney. If you have a throat damper, you can tell if it is closed if you see a barrier above your head. If you can see up into the flue, the damper is open.

How does a bypass damper work?

Bypass Damper vs. Barometric Zone Damper. Bypass dampers are used in zoning applications to relieve excess system pressure caused when a small or single zone is making a heat or cool call. It enables the excess pressure to be redirected back into the air system and re-circulated through the system.

Do all HVAC systems have dampers?

HVAC systems utilize dampers in the ductwork to control the way air flows in your home. You should be able to access and adjust them manually. Make sure all of the dampers in your home are completely open. This will completely obstruct the air in that particular duct and could affect the airflow in your entire house.

How do you adjust a bypass damper?

Verify that the barometric bypass damper is in the closed position. Slowly move the weight upwards on the arm until the damper starts to open slightly. Then move the weight back down the arm until the damper stays closed. Close one zone and the barometric damper should open.

How does a top sealing chimney damper work?

Top-sealing dampers come in two basic forms. Some models feature a stainless steel cap atop a diagonal spring wire. The wire expands to open the damper and compresses to close it. The top of the damper stays horizontal the entire time, so in the “open” position, the damper also serves as a chimney cap.