Chimney repair professionals should point out to homeowners how much heat is lost through a chimney and the steps they can take to make the system more efficient.
TJ Harrison wrote to the Maui News stating that he identified this problem with his structure and took action to reduce the loss.
He highlighted that fireplaces with doors have a closed damper which can improve the system's efficiency, however, there was a much more effective step he took.
"I retrofitted my existing fireplace with outside air for combustion by piercing the existing outside wall and installing a controllable damper flue and glass doors," Mr Harrison wrote.
The result of his actions is that he can now heat his entire property using scrap wood from construction.
Sharon Manering, owner of Quince Designs, said that keeping dampers closed will stop birds and other animals from entering the system and blocking it, which could pose various problems.