New homeowner with a chimney question

[drewbacca]

Hey everyone. New homeowner and first time having a fireplace. I had the chimney inspected and cleaned for the coming winter, but forgot to ask about these vents on the sides of the chimney. The previous homeowners stuffed them foam to, I assume, prevent cold air from coming in. Is it imperative to keep the vents open when having a fire? Does anyone know what these are actually used for? Thanks!

 

[begreen]

What does it look like on the fireplace side? Is there a corresponding fresh air tube or hole in the fireplace near the bottom? It's not imperative to open the cold air vent unless this is the sole source of air, but it will help reduce the amount of air from the house that the fireplace sucks from the house for combustion.

 

[drewbacca]

What does it look like on the fireplace side? Is there a corresponding fresh air tube or hole in the fireplace near the bottom? It's not imperative to open the cold air vent unless this is the sole source of air, but it will help reduce the amount of air from the house that the fireplace sucks from the house for combustion.

Holes more so on the sides inside of the fireplace (left and right) that can be opened. Would it be safe to keep the foam in place? Is it not good to use the air from the house to aid in the combustion?

 

[Dix]

Pics of fireplace, would be a good idea here.

Welcome to the Forums

 

[drewbacca]

Pics of fireplace, would be a good idea here.

Welcome to the Forums

Sorry for the delay. Shots of my fireplace. There’s the small openings on the left and right side, and the slide that sounds like something is opening and closing on the sides but I can’t confirm that for sure.