How to Open a Chimney Damper

A chimney damper is a vent that opens and closes to allow air in and out of the chimney. Some dampers open wider or smaller to allow adjustments to the air flow into the chimney. This gives the homeowner control over the fire and draft. Before you are able to control a fire with the damper, you must learn how to open it. Most dampers have a standard construction and open the same way. Once you figure this out, damper operation is fairly simple.

Wire brush (optional)

Instructions

- 1
  Make sure the fire is out and no smoke is coming from inside the hearth. The interior of the hearth should be completely cool.
- 2
  Locate the damper rod inside the hearth of your fireplace. This is the rod that extends up to the damper base and connects to the damper vent. In some cases the rod is connected to a chain or wire. If so, locate this wire. Some extension wires run from the top of the chimney right down to the exterior of the heart, while others are located inside the hearth.
- 3
  Pull the damper rod down to operate the mechanism that opens the vent. Pulling down will cause an arm to raise (or drop) the damper vent, creating a gap that opens the flue. Do not pull down too hard, because this may damage the vent and pull the damper base out of the chimney.
- 4
  Insert a large brush into the hearth and gently brush around the edge of the damper rod to free obstructions, soot or debris that may be preventing the damper rod from operating. Perform this step only if the damper will not open. If the damper still does not open, consult with a professional chimney sweep to solve the problem. Locate a chimney sweep through your local yellow pages.

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