24-1 Hardware for center swing handle damper
24-2 Center Swing Handle damper with Flueblocker installed
24-3 Measure area in red for a Flueblocker
24-4 Flueblocker cut for damper handle
Fireplace #24: Swing Handle Damper and High Flue Tile
These Swing Handle Dampers are very common in masonry fireplaces of solid brick or stone. These are their characteristics:
- They have a long rectangular sheet iron damper frame and matching door.
- The door has a straight cast iron handle sticking down. (image 24-1)
- The handle swings forward and back.
- All of the hardware is welded or bolted and is not removable.
- The damper door is at a slight angle when closed.
If you want to plug it tight, use the Flueblocker
If you have the swing handle damper that has a handle in the center of the damper (image 24-3) or with the handle on the side (image 24-4), you can use a Flueblocker. It seals and insulates very well. Measure the peaked area below the closed damper. (marked in red in image 24-3). Order a Flueblocker that is slightly large for the measured size. When you install the Flueblocker, cut a small slit for the straight damper handle to come through. (image 24-2 and image 24-4)