Gas Burner -- Barometric Damper?

[Justin Uliano]

I just had two different chimney companies come in for an estimate to line my chimney.

My burner (gas) is a convert over from oil.

One chimney guy told me that the old barometric damper on the pipe is dangerous and should be *sealed* for a gas burner.

The other chimney guy said that the old barometric damper on the pipe is *not* dangerous, and is *necessary* to ensure good draft, among other reasons.

Who is correct? These dudes have made me very nervous about Co Monoxide risk all of a sudden.

Thanks.

[Larry D. Kage]

Originally Posted by Justin Uliano

I just had two different chimney companies come in for an estimate to line my chimney.

My burner (gas) is a convert over from oil.

One chimney guy told me that the old barometric damper on the pipe is dangerous and should be *sealed* for a gas burner.

The other chimney guy said that the old barometric damper on the pipe is *not* dangerous, and is *necessary* to ensure good draft, among other reasons.

Who is correct? These dudes have made me very nervous about Co Monoxide risk all of a sudden.

Thanks.

Typically, a barometric damper is not used on a gas furnace.

[Michael Larson]

Barometric dampers for gas fired units do exist but are typically for oil to gas converted units or where a draft hood can't be installed. they would serve no purpose for a two pipe 90+ installation.

More info HERE

[Justin Uliano]

Thanks for the info.

I don't know if I have given you the correct description, though.
The picture in the link you sent is pretty different from what I have.

I have a round duct that leads from the furnace (horizontally). About a foot away, there is a oval opening on the bottom of the duct. There is a free-swinging butterfly-type damper in that opening.

Is this the same thing as a barometric damper? (That is the name that one of the chimney guys gave it.)

Thanks again.

[Michael Larson]

It would help to have a picture.

As your unit is "converted" oil burner you probably need a barometric damper.

It needs to be properly adjusted to insure that combustion products including CO do not enter the home. This procedure requires equipment capable of measuring the level of draft before and after the damper and in accordance with the burner manufactures requirements.

My advice is to get a third opinion frpm a reputable contractor that understands oil and gas fired units.

BTW-I don't recall seeing any that are mounted facing down as you describe.