How to Tell if Your Chimney Flue is Open
When it comes to having a successful fire, the first and most essential task is ensuring that the chimney damper is open. While many people refer to the damper as the flue itself, it’s important to remember that the damper is the actual mechanism that controls whether the flue is open or closed.
At Best Chimney Services, we specialize in both residential and commercial chimney care, offering expert services ranging from chimney cleanings to repairs, inspections, and more. Ready to book an inspection or service? Contact us today to schedule your appointment!
In the meantime, if you want to learn how to tell if your chimney damper is open, read on while we walk you through the steps to check!
1. Look for the Damper Handle
The first step on how to tell if your chimney flue is open is to locate your damper, which is typically found in the throat of the fireplace just above the firebox. It’s usually controlled by a handle or a pull chain. In most cases, when the damper is open, the handle will be pulled up, or if it’s a lever, it will be in an upward position.
If you don’t see a visible handle, check around the chimney area to see if there’s a small latch or door. The mechanism varies by design, but it’s often easy to spot once you know where to look.
2. Use Your Hand to Feel for a Draft
A simple, hands-on method is to stand in front of your fireplace and hold your hand a few inches from the opening of the flue. If the chimney flue is open, you should feel a cool draft of air coming down the chimney. If the air is stagnant or warm, it may indicate that the damper is closed or partially shut. This is a quick way to tell and gives you an idea of what you’re working with.
3. Listen for Sounds
When the flue is open, you may hear air moving through the chimney, especially if there’s a noticeable difference in outside temperature. In some cases, the flue will make a soft whooshing sound when it’s fully open and air is flowing freely through the system. If you don’t hear anything or hear a hissing sound, this could indicate that the damper is not open all the way.
4. Test the Draft with Newspaper
Another method on how to tell if your chimney flue is open is to burn a small piece of newspaper and hold it high in the firebox. Cold chimneys normally have a natural downdraft, so you may see the smoke move in a circular motion seeing the smoke get drawn up into the chimney. If the smoke hangs around or drifts back into your living room, this indicates that the flue is not fully open, and you may need to adjust the damper.
Why It’s Important to Know if Your Chimney Flue is Open
Ensuring that your chimney damper is open before starting a fire is critical for safety. A closed or partially closed damper can cause hazardous conditions, including fire hazards, carbon monoxide buildup, and inefficient burning.
Need Professional Assistance?
If you’re unsure about the condition of your chimney or need help ensuring your flue is functioning correctly, contact the experts at Best Chimney Services today. Our certified technicians are ready to inspect, clean, and repair your chimney, keeping your home and business safe all year round. Don’t hesitate to book an appointment with us today!
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