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Fireplace Dampers & Chimney Dampers Buyer's Guide

Fireplace Dampers & Chimney Dampers Buyer's Guide

BY Collin Champagne Sep 10, 2025
Fireplace Dampers & Chimney Dampers
Smoke back drafting into the home

Have you ever watched someone fumbling with a damper on a smoky fire? A fireplace damper acts as a gateway for the chimney, opening to let air pass through or remaining shut to keep the chimney sealed. They're a simple mechanism, but how do you know when they should be open or closed? And should they ever be left partially open?

Here's a guide to the different kinds of chimney dampers and how to operate the different styles. You'll also find tips on how to replace or install them.

What is a Fireplace Damper?

A fireplace damper is a simple flap that opens and closes inside the flue of your fireplace. When closed, it seals off the chimney so that warm air from your house doesn't escape. (No one enjoys paying to heat the outdoors.) When open, it allows the fire to vent properly and let the smoke go up the chimney.

About the Author

Collin Champagne

With over 13 years in the industry, Collin is a National Fireplace Institute (NFI) certified technician and managed content for the eFireplacestore and eCanopy brands. He has achieved the highest NFI certification possible as a Master Hearth Professional and is certified in all three hearth appliance fields: wood, gas, and pellet. With experience with sales and in-field installations, his expertise shines through his technical knowledge and way with words.

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Customer Q&A with Product Specialists

Ron B. from Illinois asked:
Hi, I have a wood-burning fireplace with a broken damper. I installed a 'drop-in' damper that I thought would work, but a local fireplace store told me it won't work on a prefab chimney. Does that sound right?
Hi, I have a wood-burning fireplace with a broken damper. I installed a 'drop-in' damper that I thought would work, but a local fireplace store told me it won't work on a prefab chimney. Does that sound right?
Hi Ron, There are "drop-in" style top mount dampers available that are designed for prefabricated fireplaces and can serve as a retrofit option if your existing damper is damaged or missing. These drop-in top mount dampers are a popular solution for prefabricated fireplaces that require a replacement. While they may not offer the same airtight seal as a masonry top mount damper, they provide good protection against drafts.Many times, local chimney shops will not verify that this is a suitable replacement because it is not a UL-listed replacement part tested to work with that specific fireplace. While it may fit your needs, it is a modification to the original chimney system that may not be approved under local code requirements.
Answered by: Aaron D. on Jun 15, 2026

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