Dampers are plate-shaped device which opens or close to regulate the amount of air that passes through the duct and vents. Making adjustments on the damper affects the indoor temperature by pushing cold or hot air into some areas or sections of the house.

How do you tell if dampers are open or closed?

If you are looking at a duct that is coming off the furnace and going straight up like it is going to the upstairs, and the wing is in the same direction as the duct, it is open. If the wing is in the opposite or vertical position to the ductwork, then the damper is closed.

How are fire dampers activated?

When a rise in temperature occurs, the fire damper closes, usually activated by a thermal element which melts at temperatures higher than ambient but low enough to indicate the presence of a fire, allowing springs to close the damper blades.