How to Remove a Flue Damper Lid

A fireplace is a great asset to any home, but it does require routine maintenance to keep it in perfect working order and to avoid problems. One task you should perform regularly is cleaning the damper or replacing it once it becomes worn out. To do either of these, you have to remove the damper lid, which prevents the loss of warm air and keeps debris from blocking the chimney. Taking a nonlocking damper lid off the flue is a job that almost anyone can accomplish without professional help or special know-how.

Tarps
Flashlight
Adjustable wrench

Instructions

- 1
  Make sure there is no fire in the fireplace and that the interior and surrounding areas cooled completely. Remove any logs, grates or other items from the interior of your fireplace. Cover your carpet and other surfaces with protective tarps.
- 2
  Look up into the chimney with a flashlight and find the damper. Examine the damper lid. Determine whether the lid is attached to the flue with bolts or whether it is a lock type with a gasket seal.
- 3
  Remove the bolts from your damper with an adjustable wrench. Lift the lid away. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for removing your particular lid if it is a lock type.

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