The HVAC fire damper or smoke damper is an important element of protecting your home and family in the event of a fire. They are considered passive fire protection devices since they do not extinguish any fires… instead acting to impede their progress and spread. Many people are unaware of them, what they do, and how they do it.
What Do HVAC Dampers Do?
An HVAC damper is a movable plate inside your ductwork that can be opened and closed. This allows control of airflow to different areas of the house, permitting better control of energy use and costs. Areas of the home that are often empty can be set to lower temperatures in the winter and cooler ones in the summer, which can have a great effect on the size of your power bill.
What Are Fire Dampers?
A fire damper is also located inside your ducts, where it acts to prevent the spread of fires. Like other dampers it opens and closes to restrict or increase airflow. Closing off the duct seals one avenue by which fire could spread. It also acts to cut off or restrict the flow of air, removing some of the fire’s fuel.
What Triggers a Fire Damper?
Excessive heat is what sets them off. When temperatures reach a certain point – usually around 165 F – they shut, helping to contain the blaze. In most cases this is activated by the melting of a thermal element inside the damper.
What Is the Purpose of a Smoke Damper?
Smoke dampers act to stop the spread of smoke into other areas of the building. This is a serious issue, as smoke inhalation is the number one cause of death during fires. People become incapacitated by the smoke before they can escape the burning home. Preventing the spread of smoke to other potentially inhabited areas of the home is a vital concern.
Are Fire Dampers Required?
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) enforces strict requirements on fire dampers. These requirements include specific strictures covering inspection, testing, and maintenance.
Your Family’s Safety Comes First, Call Tragar
Comfort is important, but safety even more so. With more than six decades of servicing Long Island, Tragar Home Services has earned our 5-star reputation. Not only that, but we also offer service outside of the normal business day. After all, problems do not follow a schedule. Our emergency response time is the best in the area, even during the most unpleasant winter weather.
Our expert team can inspect and evaluate your HVAC system – including the ducts, fire damper, and smoke damper – as well as performing any repairs or maintenance required. From the smallest service needs to complete installation of new HVAC systems we stand ready to meet all your HVAC needs. Contact us today to arrange an inspection so we can help keep your family and your home safe.
