Open fire flu.

[flobadob]

Firstly I don't know if that is the correct term but what I was wondering was, on our open fire at the top above the back boiler there is a little piece of metal that can be moved back and forward. I'm pretty sure it's called a flu. However, I'm not too sure exactly the correct way to use it. Should it be more to the front or pushed back? Usually I just leave it sort of in the middle.

[terence7556]

sounds like a restrictor plate .
do you have the name of the appliance or any manufacturers instructions?

[flobadob]

No. I think they are on all fires but not sure.

[canalman]

My folks once had an open fire like that.
You pull the damper towards you to open up the flue going round the back boiler, thus getting hotter water. To decrease the water temperature (or prevent it boiling, if you have a very hot fire), push the damper in until you get the required temperature. (Obviously it won't respond immediately).
And make sure the flues are swept regularly...!
It increases efficiency and prevents soot in the flues catching fire.

[flobadob]

Thank you.