Expert: James Ball - 11/28/2008

Question
It has been suggested to me that partially closing the flue will prolong the life of
my fires, saving wood.  Is this true, or should the flue always be fully open?  Will
this affect the amount of smoke that enters the room?  Thanks!

Answer
Hello Peter, the "damper" will open and close allowing air n smoke to leave the fireplace, open fully to start your fire and then close it part way (how far you will have to test on) do allow only the smoke to leave, not as must heat. Trail and error.
I would have a local Certified Chimney Sweep (www.csia.org, there you can look up by zip code to find one near you) take a first hand look at what you have.
James