Expert: James Ball - 4/23/2011

Question
QUESTION: Inside the firebox there are 2 chains. One on each side to the left and right directly inside the inner hearth. SHould I let slack out? or make them tight to allow the fan air flow to work properly? I did see another question like this but James thought the person was talking about the damper. I don't mean the damper connected to the flue. I mean to the left and right of the actualy firebox there are 2 chains that are for the fan but i don't know if i am supposed to pull them in or leave them out to allow the best air flow?

ANSWER: Hello Sha, I need some more info, is this a pre fab fireplace or masonry? has any one looked up at what these two chains are connected to?
I  have never seen a fan like you describe in 25 years of sweeping, are you sure they are not "fresh air inlets? 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.
Hope this helps
James


---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thanks but no. The chains don't go up. THey are connected to some kind of latch one on the right, one on the left to each of the in flow air grates , the fans at the bottom of the fireplace.

ANSWER: Welcome back Sha, they sound like fresh air intake's do you have the owners manual, that should tell you 100% what they are
James

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: I don't have the manual and I tried to research it online but i could not find the answer. That's why i asked on here! Thank you anyway!

Answer
Sha, fans usually run off a switch not 2 chain,  unless this was a custom install? Even with regular fans there are hundreds of different types and manufactures, so with your limited explanations, no owners manual, or make and model, not even a picture, I cant help you, you never even answered my questions "Is this a pre fab fireplace or masonry"
did you try a certified sweep to take a first hand look as I suggested?
sorry you feel I am only a 5 on knowledgeability and 6 on politeness.
but I would need a lot more info, so if you can get me more information about this unit please feel free to post back and I will try again.
James