A difficult to find solid cast iron damper plate with steel handle (included) mounted dead center on front side of plate that can be bent slightly to correct angle for easy operation. Damper plate has heavy cast iron pins at the end of each side that slide into slots in damper frame, so that damper pivots from full open to sealing closed, by pushing handle forward or backward 90 degrees. Damper is easily installed by sliding it up at an angle through the opening above the damper frame, installing one cast iron pin into the closed slot on usually on left side and then dropping the other pin into the open slot on the opposite side. Open and close to check how it closes and bend handle by holding damper with one hand and handle with other and apply pressure in direction needed until handle is in comfortable position.
A damper is needed to prevent heat loss up the chimney when the fireplace is not in use. Secondarily, it may prevent smells from coming in the house and stop down drafts. Unfortunately this damper plate only fits the H. W. Covert Co. damper frame. This damper plate is usually missing, because someone removed it to install a wood stove or insert, or because they had sealed up the fireplace. It is rarely missing because the previous damper plate rotted out, unless water was allowed to pour down the chimney for a couple of decades. Our used damper plates were removed when installing wood stoves and inserts for our customers by our chimney sweeping company. We held on to them in the event other of our customers were missing a damper plate and wanted an inexpensive alternative to a top damper or custom made throat damper. Since closing the business we are offering them to our new customers on eBay, as we sell all our equipment and inventory at low prices to clear out our basement and begin our retirement.
After 43 years, we closed down our chimney sweep business and a year later are selling all our brand new inventory for 75% off wholesale list prices, so check them out in our other listings on eBay. We are also selling used items like these damper plates as well as new and used equipment for chimney sweeps, other service businesses and homeowners to use. We are much cheaper than most others on eBay, as we are not trying to make a profit, but need to clear out our inventory for good and are forced to do it at a loss. Once one of our listings is sold out, it is gone for good. We will not be selling that item ever again. We were a service business, so we don't mind (and in fact, love) answering any technical or aesthetic questions about these products and how they work. So, please contact us with any questions you may have.