Fireplace Damper Handle Which Way Is Open

The method of opening and closing the flue depends on the type of fireplace and how it was constructed and installed in the room.

Fireplace damper handle which way is open.

A fireplace damper should always be open all of the way when starting a fire and usually always open throughout the length of the fire. To close it you simply lift the handle up again pull the damper shut and set the handle back into position on the ratchet. Orient yourself with the damper handle on the outside of your flue pipe or the exterior of your stove. Worse yet if you have a gas fireplace burned gas can escape the fireplace and create the conditions for carbon monoxide poisoning.

If the chain is tightly attached to a hook the damper is closed. Damper controls are usually located near the top of the firebox. If your fireplace has a knob you ll twist the knob to open the damper. To open it take the chain off the hook and let it go.

Move the lever to open or close the damper. Some handles push in and pull out others turn clockwise or counter clockwise and some slide. A handle beside or just inside the fireplace operates the damper. If you start a fire before opening the throat damper smoke will flow out of the fireplace instead of going up the chimney.

You turn the handle to a vertical position to open the flue damper and back to a horizontal position to close it. A flue damper should be opened all of the way when opening a stove door to add further fuel to the fire to help prevent any smoke from pouring out of the stove and into the room. You should turn the knob clockwise as far as it can go or push the rod all the way up to open the damper. This type lets you adjust how far open the damper is.