Fireplaces provide warmth for your home by transferring heat. A fireplace operates by combustion air and requires a source of fuel to burn. Smoke transports out of the fireplace through a vented source, and ashes remain from wood burned. The different sections of the fireplace make it work.

Firebox and Hearth

The primary floor area of the fireplace prevents hot ashes from spreading into other areas of the home. The firebox and hearth contain the fire in the fireplace.

Grate

The grate is at the center of the inner hearth. The grate contains the wood in one place, allows airflow to the fire and prevents damage to the inner hearth. Coals and ashes drop from the burning wood beneath the grate.

Dampers

There are three dampers on a fireplace to control the direction and flow of smoke from the burning wood. The primary damper attaches to a flue or plate that opens and closes the fireplace. The throat damper directs the flow of air and smoke upward to escape from the chimney. The top-sealing damper seals the chimney when not in use.

Basic Operation

The home owner places a small amount of kindling directly on the inner hearth and wood on the grate. With the dampers open, the kindling ignites to start the fire. The wood burns while the dampers direct the airflow upwards and out of the chimney. Heat is given off by the fire and transfers into the room.

Considerations

All dampers must be open for a fireplace to operate efficiently and prevent smoke flowing into your home. Close all dampers when the fireplace is not in use.

Source:

Burning Secrets

Fireplace Basics

More Information:

Why Does My Fireplace Smoke?