What in the World is a Chimney Balloon?
On a winter's evening, there's nothing like sitting next to the cozy warmth of a crackling blaze in your fireplace. But what happens when the flames die away? Since cold air moves downward, your open fireplace chimney will act as a natural pathway that allows frosty breezes into your home. At the
Posted — UpdatedAlthough a chimney balloon is shaped more like a cushion than a party balloon, it is an inflatable device made of thin yet strong plastic. It's easy to use; you just place it inside the chimney (don't worry if the walls are a bit rough -- this balloon can take it!), inflate, and turn off its air tap. The balloon will act to stop the influx of cold outdoor air and escape of HVAC-heated indoor air via the chimney almost completely. However, there is provision for a small amount of ventilation, to prevent dampness problems.
Chimneys come in a variety of sizes and shapes. Fortunately, so do chimney balloons. To determine the type you need, first note the shape of your chimney. Then take a flashlight and measure the width (from one side to the other) and depth (from the front to back) approximately one foot up inside the chimney. Measurements do not need to be overly precise, since the balloon's inflation can be adjusted to fit. Just be sure to choose a size that is equivalent to, or slightly larger than, your chimney dimensions. Balloons can even be custom made for that hard-to-fit flue.
How do the two gadgets compare pricewise? They are actually fairly similar. The chimney balloon is currently available on Amazon.com priced from $43.99 for the smallest (9" X 9") up to $86.99 for the extra-large size (45" X 15"). Chimney Sheep costs $25.00 for a 10" circular model, and ranges to $99.00 for a 14" X 36" rectangle.