Chimney Balloon fireplace damper

How can I stop dust and ash from coming in the house through the chimney?

Q: Jason, I rent a very old house - built 1927 and I have 5 unused chimneys. Besides helping with the drafts and the odors - will the chimney balloon also stop some of the dust that is coming in through the old chimneys? - EL

A: Hi EL, Yes, The Chimney Balloon will offer a tight seal that will stop the dust and soot from falling down your chimney and circulating about the house in two ways.

1) The Chimney Balloon will close off the fireplace low and tight to eliminate the air movement that transports the dust.

2) The Chimney Balloon will also seal off the dust that is up in the chimney so it cannot fall down to the firebox area. Some people also use the balloon to prevent Asian beetles, bats, wasps, spiders, and other little critters from entering their home through the chimney flue.

I hope this answers your question thoroughly. - Jason

Is it possible to overinflate a Chimney Balloon, how can you tell it has enough air in it?

Q: Is it possible to over inflate the Chimney Balloon? How do you know when you have blown in a sufficient amount of air?- DC

A: Hi DC, The Chimney Balloon should be a little springy (not drum tight) when inflated. If it is inflated enough to seal and hold in place, then it is inflated enough.

I know the temptation is to blow it as tight as possible, but that is not necessary. If you use an airbed inflation pump to inflate the balloon sometimes it helps to remove the pump just before the balloon is fully inflated and top the inflation off by blowing into the inflation tube. That will give you a feel for how much pressure is in the balloon.

I never recommend to use an air compressor to inflate a Chimney Balloon. They build pressure in the balloon too quickly at the end of the inflation, and it can easily blow out the balloon or the seals on the balloon before you have time to stop it. - Jason