Expert: James Ball - 10/20/2008

Question
We had an old blaze king insert removed and we currently have an electric fireplace insert that is made to sit inside the firebox.  There is no fire or flame so there is no need to vent.  Our flue is broken and we are considering the laymance and lift top damper systems.  These appear to be easily installed following some simple directions.  Is this something we as homeowners can install or do we have to go thru chimney professionals?  We can save about $100 if we can install ourselves.

Answer
Hello Tanya, yes they are very easy to install, uncoil the cable (clamp a vise grip pliers to the end) and drop the end down, then silicone the top of the flue and set the damper on it (check for operation and clearance). Install the base bracket and cut the cable (so that the pull chain is almost to the top of the bracket and tighten the set screw. Try the damper closed once and check the top then release it and re check the top (still in place) then leave it open for at least 24 hours to set the silicone and you should be done, just close the damper and you are set to go.
hope this helped
James Ball