How To Open A Fireplace Flue With Chain. Poker damper (aka banana handle) poker damper Light the other end of the torch and hold it inside the fireplace.
Typically, you will release the chain or cable, which should result in the damper springing up to an open position. Often, a damper becomes difficult to operate or sticks in one position. You can open a damper by lifting a rod, rotating a knob clockwise, or pulling a chain.
Use the directions below to help with opening your damper, depending on the one that matches the fireplace.
You must open the damper every time you start a fire. You can open the chimney flue by pushing or lifting a rod all the way to open the damper. All you need is to pull the right chain. Push the lever up slightly to disengage it from its support tab and then pull it away from the tab horizontally as the damper lowers into a closed position.