.png)
Damper Safety Clamps: A Very Simple Safety Device
- brennancoyle
- Sep 29, 2022
- 2 min read
Updated: Oct 14, 2022
It couldn't be easier to install, or much cheaper, even with todays prices. But it is missing on probably 50% of the gas fireplaces or inserts that I inspect.
The Damper Safety Clamp (it's required)
The item pictured here is called a damper safety clamp and IS REQUIRED ON ALL GAS FIREPLACES AND FIREPLACE INSERTS WHEN THERE IS A DAMPER IN PLACE.
Whenever you have a gas fireplace or gas fireplace insert there is a chance of a gas leak or the presence of toxic post combustion gasses (carbon monoxide) from the burning of fossil fuels. It is imperative for you and your family's safety that these gases have a way to vent to the outside of the home and not into your living spaces. With fireplaces that exit route is the chimney/flue. Within most chimneys/flues is an item known as the damper. The damper is essentially a small metal "door" inside the fireplace, near the top , usually with a handle attached to it for operation. Like all "doors" you can open or close it. Many people will close the damper when the fireplace is not in use to prevent cold exterior air from drafting down the chimney and into your home. While that is a great practice for energy efficiency and home comfort, it can pose a safety concern if there is a gas leak and the gasses cannot escape out the chimney/flue.
To ensure the escape of those gases, even if the damper is closed, we use what is called a damper safety clamp. Its a very simple device that clamps on to the metal damper and creates a stop that wont allow the damper to fully closed. When installed correctly and the damper is closed a small gap will remain so that in the event there is a gas leak those gasses/fumes can still escape up through the chimney/flue.
Pictured is a damper in both the open and closed positions with the safety clamp installed. Notice in the closed picture how the damper is still slightly cracked open.
Where they are NOT required
Wood burning fireplaces (only burning wood, with no gas assist installed)
Prefabricated gas fireplaces where a damper is not installed (aka direct vent)
It's simple, it's easy and it can protect you and your family. So whether buying, selling or maintaining a home with a gas or gas assisted fireplace check to see if the damper safety clamp is installed. If it's not, you can buy one on amazon here (at least at the time of writing this) for a whopping $6.00, look up how to install it on youtube, and you'll be sleeping safe and sound.
Comments