Energy-Efficient Chimney Tips for Better Heating

The chimney plays a crucial role in fires as it carries smoke up and out of your house. When inefficient, you can really notice a difference in heating ability. In fact, a poorly functioning chimney can work the opposite way that it’s intended: pulling warm air up and cold air down. Luckily, this article will provide actionable tips to ensure your chimney is running properly for the upcoming cold season.

Start with the Draft

A chimney draft is intended to pull smoke up and out of your house. It’s arguably the most important puzzle piece to ensure efficiency. Make sure to keep up with annual cleanings to ensure your damper opens fully and the chimney isn’t blocked by debris. 

Tip: If your draft is weak, consider “priming” your flue by lighting a rolled newspaper near the damper for a few seconds. This warms the air column and promotes a strong draw.

Upgrade to a Top-Sealing Damper

If you’re struggling with efficiency and have a traditional throat damper, you may want to consider an alternative. Top-sealing dampers, installed at the chimney cap, close all the flue completely when not in use. Not only will this keep cold air out, but it’ll also ensure your heated air stays inside. 

Consider a Fireplace Insert

Open-air fireplaces or non-airtight doors can cause efficiency issues. Glass doors or inserts trap warmth inside the firebox, keeping your room cozy rather than letting the heat quickly escape outside. Sealed units, like fireplace inserts, can improve efficiency by up to 80%, leaving a warmer and cleaner fire to enjoy. 

Seal any Gaps, Cracks, and Flashing

You’d be surprised how many small cracks or gaps show up over time. Even hairline ones can let warm air escape. During your annual cleaning or inspection, ask your chimney professional to fill in any that they see. A tight, well-sealed chimney will prevent heat loss and moisture damage. A worthy, inexpensive investment early on. 

Insulate Around the Chimney Chase

If your chimney runs through an attic or exterior wall, insulation around the chase or the structure around the chimney and vent system makes a big difference. Just make sure to maintain safe clearance from heat. Reducing heat loss through exposed masonry keeps your flue temperature stable and improves draft efficiency.

If you think you can benefit from any of the above-mentioned points, make sure to call your chimney professional to schedule a visit.

Make Sure You’re Getting The Most From Your Chimney

Twin City is a full-service, family-owned fireplace company with locations in Edina and Woodbury, MN. Our staff is highly experienced and knowledgeable, and will make sure your chimney is in the best shape possible, even if that requires making some efficiency improvements. We specialize in the sale, service, and installation of gas and wood-burning fireplaces for indoor and outdoor spaces. We’re also licensed general contractors, gas fitters, and skilled masons to give you a seamless experience from the first call to the finished installation.