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Dampers in Gas Log Fireplaces
In recent years local codes were written stating that if a Gas Log set existed in a fireplace, the damper must be locked in an open position. The open position must be sufficient to allow the products of combustion to escape through the damper. The reason for this code is to prevent Carbon Monoxide (CO) poisoning from occurring in a gas log fireplace. Because gas burns so cleanly the occupants of the home do not usually notice whether the damper is open or closed. They could (and often do) forget to open the damper before lighting the gas logs. The damper, closing off the chimney, routes the products of combustion, which contains varying amounts of Carbon Monoxide straight into the interior of the room where it poses a serious health threat to the occupants. Carbon Monoxide can be fatal to some and cause serious health problems to others. Scientists currently consider 35 Parts Per Million (ppm — which means that there is 35 parts of CO to every million parts of air) exposure over a single hour to be the maximum. You can expect the CO concentration in outdoor air to be below 1-2 ppm, except near streets and highways. Exposure of less than 9 ppm CO (over an 8-hour average) in living areas is currently considered safe but I personally expect these levels to be reevaluated in the near future because these guidelines may not provide sufficient protection for people with heart or lung problems. At the time of this writing there is no known safe level of carbon monoxide. For further information on Carbon Monoxide visit our “News and Articles” section of our website and read “Carbon Monoxide — The Facts”. Fireplaces that do not have Gas Logs and burn solid fuel such as real wood are allowed (and should) have properly working dampers. There is no danger of Carbon Monoxide poisoning in a properly working wood burning fireplace. In such a fireplace the damper can be accidentally left in the closed position but that fact would soon become obvious as the room filled up with smoke — forcing the occupants to either extinguish the fire of open the damper. The danger of an improperly working fireplace is that it can allow small amounts of the products of combustion into the room and over time this can be a health hazard. If you smell smoke during a fire you must act to protect your health. See “Smoking Fireplace Tips” on our website for a quick solution. Having your fireplace inspected at regular intervals by a competent inspector is always the best and safest solution. The inspector will always recommend solutions to any problems or potential problems found during the inspection. Boston Brick & Stone always offers prices for the recommended solutions on every chimney we inspect.
Where a gas log fireplace is set up Carbon Monoxide detectors are a must. Because CO has the same density as air and therefore simply moves around the room with the air we recommend the installation of at least three CO detectors in any room which has a gas log set up.
The detectors are relatively inexpensive and are installed by almost anyone who can change a light bulb. Be sure to buy the type that has an audible alarm. Hardware stores sell these for between $35.00 and $50.00 each.
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As a rule we also recommend that Carbon Monoxide detectors be placed throughout the house, especially around the fireplace.
Serving the Los Angeles area.