Handyman Guide > Furnace Dampers

The modern furnace is equipped with four dampers. Their purpose is to regulate the amount of air reaching the fire and thus control the rate at which the fire burns. It is essential that these dampers operate properly if the furnace is to give good service.


Ash Pit Damper. This damper is located at the base of the furnace. It controls the flow of air to the fire. When the damper is closed, the fire burns slowly, and when wide open, it produces the maximum heat.

Check Damper. This damper checks the flow of air through the fire by opening the chimney, so that air flows directly through it rather than passing through the fire. This damper works in conjunction with the ash pit damper. When one is open the other is closed, and vice versa. Keep the check damper closed when a great deal, of heat is required.

Smoke Pipe Damper. This damper is located somewhere in the length of stove pipe that runs from the furnace to the chimney. It is operated by a small handle attached to a disk in the pipe. The purpose of the damper is to prevent heat from escaping through the chimney and, at the same time, to provide enough draft for the fire. This damper should be kept as nearly closed as possible without putting out the fire.

The best method of finding the right setting for this damper is through trial and error. Close the damper a fraction of an inch more each day, and continue this practice as long as the fire burns properly and there is no sign of coal gas in the basement. The amount of heat lost through the chimney is very great, and keeping this damper sufficiently closed is a great fuel saver.

During very cold cold weather, of course, the damper will have to be opened enough to provide the additional draft. Use this damper for seasonal rather than day to day settings. In other words, set the damper either for mild weather or cold weather.

Fire Door Damper. The purpose of the fire door damper, which is located in the door of the fire box, is to allow a small amount of air to flow over the surface of the fire and thus aid combustion. When open, it also checks the draft through the fire.



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