What is the primary purpose of a chimney damper?

The primary purpose of a chimney damper is to control airflow and prevent heat loss. When a fireplace is not in use, closing the damper helps to seal off the chimney, which prevents warm air from escaping the home and cold air from entering. This is particularly important for energy efficiency because it helps to maintain the indoor temperature, reducing heating costs. Additionally, proper airflow control allows for a safe and efficient drafting of smoke and gases when the fireplace is in use. Effective regulation of airflow contributes to a better combustion process, ensuring that the fire burns efficiently and minimizing the risk of smoke backdrafting into the living space.

While preventing animal entry, enhancing draft, and decorative elements may be considerations in some contexts, they do not represent the primary function of the damper. The damper is fundamentally designed to manage airflow and contribute to the energy efficiency of a home.