The fire and smoke dampers in healthcare facilities are required to be inspected every four years. In commercial buildings it is recommended that they are inspected and cycled every four years or when required by the local governing entity.

What is the difference between an electrical and a mechanical damper?

Electrical dampers have an actuator that operates the damper. The actuator is under constant power and holds the damper in the open position under normal conditions. In the event of a fire, power is cut and the damper closes.

A mechanical damper is a sedentary damper that requires no electrical power. The damper simply has a fusible link that keeps it open during normal conditions. In the event of a fire, the link melts when a certain temperature is reached, thus causing the damper to close

How is a damper inspected?

Dampers are first visually inspected to ensure there is nothing obstructing the damper from closing properly. Then the damper is mechanically tested to see if it operates and functions correctly. With mechanical dampers, the fusible links are generally removed and the damper is allowed to close. Electrical dampers are cycled, which means that the electrical power is temporarily cut and the damper is allowed to close. The power is then returned and damper, if operating correctly, returns to the open position.