Two kinds of damper
| Damper | Where it sits | Common problems |
|---|---|---|
| Throat damper | Just above the firebox | Rusted, warped, stuck open or shut, handle broken |
| Top-sealing damper | At the top of the flue, opened by a cable | Rarely fails. Seals with a gasket |
Why a top-sealing damper is worth it
- Seals far tighter than a metal throat damper, so less conditioned air escapes
- Keeps rain and animals out of the flue when closed
- Cuts down on summer chimney odor
- Works as a cap and damper in one
Signs your damper needs work
- You feel a draft from the fireplace with the damper closed
- The handle won't move, or moves without opening the damper
- Rust flakes fall into the firebox
- Smoke rolls into the room even with the damper open
Every repair is priced in writing before any work starts, and repair estimates are free.
Questions about damper repair
How much does damper replacement cost?
Angi lists throat dampers at about $150–$250 and top-sealing dampers at about $250–$500, plus labor. See the Dallas price guide.
Can I use my fireplace with a top-sealing damper?
Yes. You open it with a cable inside the fireplace before lighting a fire, and close it once the fire is fully out.