We bought our house in July & had the sweep come and inspect & clean the fireplace. Wood burning, located in the basement (walk out). He replaced the cap on the chimney at that time. We have used the fireplace a handful of times since. Last night went to start a fire & the damper wouldn't open. It's a pop up/lock top kind located at the top of the chimney, unsure of the brand/make. Pulled the cord & nothing, tried pulling quick, hard, etc. and it wouldn't pop open. We're thinking it's frozen - we've had rain & snow and yesterday a blizzard (which is continuing today). How can we get this thing to thaw/open? I've tried searching this forum and online for answers, and left a message with our sweep to see if he has ideas, he's SLOW to respond. Ideas?
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double-d
Feeling the Heat
That might be a tough one, without going back up on the roof. If the installer did not include a Screen Cap with that damper, it would be a good thing to add. Might help keep snow and ice off the lid portion.
You might try facing an electric heater into the fireplace and see if enough heat can help melt any snow or ice. Leave the cable unlocked so the spring pressure will help break the ice.
You might try facing an electric heater into the fireplace and see if enough heat can help melt any snow or ice. Leave the cable unlocked so the spring pressure will help break the ice.
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