Are Dampers and Flues the Same & Other Chimney Questions

Chimney experts are thoroughly familiar with common chimney questions people ask, such as, “Are dampers and flues the same thing?” Turns out, there are quite a few misunderstandings that people have about chimneys and fireplaces. Below, find answers to common questions about chimneys.

Is There a Difference between Dampers and Flues?

Yes, there is a difference between dampers and flues. The chimney damper is a metal plate located just above the fire pit, and it opens and closes. Before starting a fire, the chimney damper should be opened. The combustion gases from fires go up through the damper and then up and out through the chimney flue.

A chimney flue is also called a chimney liner. It is essential for the flue to be in undamaged condition because it keeps extreme heat and toxic gases contained. If the flue has even a small crack, the home and its occupants are endangered by the threats of a possible house fire and possible exposure to toxic gases, including deadly carbon monoxide.

After a fire has gone cold, the damper should be closed. An open damper or a damper that won’t seal properly is no different from an open window allowing heated air to escape, resulting in
higher utility costs.

What Things Can I Safely Burn in My Fireplace?

The only thing that is safe to burn in a fireplace is properly seasoned firewood. In other words, the wood is low in moisture, which is typically achieved over a 6-month to 12-month period of drying out. Such things as wrapping paper, foam packaging, and pizza boxes are dangerous in a fireplace because they contain toxins and could cause a fire to overheat.

Why Can’t I See the Chimney Liner Through the Damper?

Many people have been surprised to find that if they shine a flashlight up into the damper that leads to a chimney flue, they are unable to see the flue liner. This is because flues are typically offset up to 30 degrees. During chimney inspections performed by chimney sweep professionals, they will determine the condition of the chimney flue and recommend an inspection and/or chimney cleaning.

Do Chimney Sweep Logs Work?

Usually hoping to cut maintenance costs, homeowners often ask if a chimney sweep log does a good job of cleaning chimneys. There is evidence that creosote sweeping logs can possibly help by reducing the flammability of the creosote and by causing some of the sooty substance to be removed. The creosote that falls can cause an obstruction in the flue, however, and that’s just one downside.

Experts agree that chimney inspections are always needed annually and chimney cleaning needs to be performed by chimney professionals. So, chimney sweep logs should not replace an annual chimney inspection or cleaning.

Do you have any chimney questions? Have you asked what the difference is between a flue and a damper, like so many others? Whatever your questions or your needs for chimney care, fireplace sales and installation, chimney cleaning, and chimney masonry repair contact Dubuque Fireplace & Patio at (563) 582-5156 today. In the Highland WI area, contact our sister store, Chimney Specialist, Inc., at (608) 929-4887.