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The damper, located just above the firebox, can open or close the chimney flue. The damper should remain closed unless there’s a fire burning in the fireplace. Closing the damper prevents energy loss through the chimney and cold air from seeping into the home during the winter. Opening the damper helps maintain airflow when there is a fire and prevents smoke and gases from venting into the house.

Chimney sweeps perform three levels of inspections:

1. Level One: This is a basic annual inspection, often a visual inspection during cleaning, which is the most affordable.

2. Level Two: This stage is ideal when selling or buying a home as it involves an inspection of the attic and roof, which is moderately priced.

3. Level Three: This is a very thorough inspection that should take place after major storms or earthquakes, which is the most costly type of inspection.

To burn garden waste, you can use a dug-out burn pit lined with stone or brick, a burn barrel, or a garden incinerator. If using a burn barrel, make sure it's made entirely of metal and properly equipped with screened vents and a metal top screen. Garden incinerators are designed for waste burning and should be operated according to the manufacturer's instructions.

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) says that chimneys and their associated elements like fireplaces, vents, or stoves should be cleaned at least once a year before the start of seasonal use. According to the Chimney Safety Institute of America, a chimney should be cleaned when there is 1/8 inch of soot buildup. If there’s more than that, creosote—a flammable byproduct of burning wood—can form and increase the risk of a chimney fire.