Expert: James Ball - 6/2/2009

Question
There is a smoke odor from fireplace even though we haven't used it since the winter. There is a new damper on top of the chimney with a chain attached. The old cast iron damper plate at the bottom was removed. I was told that the damper on the bottom is needed to keep the odor from entering the house. Is this correct? If so, could the damper plate be used also with the top damper without interfering with the chain?

Answer
Hello Mark, the top mount damper should be air tight. the bottom damper should not be used just the top mount. that should stop air from moving up or down. was the chimney cleaned? was the top mount installed correctly? solve the negative pressure of the house.
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 they should be able to help.
James