Baro Dampers for the Clueless

Hello All-
I have a 15 year old Gibralter Coal Stove in a 225 sqft addition. I've had a barometric damper on it for the last couple of years, but I have to replace the current one because of rust. Do I need one? On my other stove I have just a manual ( that's on an old Majestic kitchen coal stove that is really old, although in ok shape). Should I put one on the kitchen stove as well? How do I know if I installed it right?
Also, I use the standard lowes ( 26 gauge?) stove pipe. Does the heavier gauge make a real difference? We are in a pretty drafty old log house, but I always thought the draftiness serves a purpose in that it moves the airand reduces potential harm of carbon monoxide.
Opinions?

Yes a baro metris damper is needed. Without one you cannot control the temperature of the stove properly. Some people don't have one, but they waste coal as often too much heat goes up the chimney. It's installed properly when it's face is level in both directions and the hinge pins are level. Don't eyeball it, use a level.
The thicker the pipe the longer it lasts.
You must have at least one CO detector. Anyone without, that can not afford one, PM me me, explain your circumstance & if you truly can't afford one I will buy you one and ship it to you.
A drafty house only uses more fuel.

Yes, they do help regulate the heat from the stove instead of going up the chimney. they are not hard to install, the gauge of the pipe doesn't really matter and doesn't affect its operation. You can get it with a TEE already mounted or some you can order have the mounting piece with it and just cut a oval hole in the pipe. Just depends on how much you want to spend $30-$75.

Most have the Field Controls RC, there are others that would probalby work.

Here a pic of the basic RC from Field Controls, just has to level, and adjusted accordlingly.
There a whole 'nother thread on here on Baro Dampers in this section

Thank you both very much. What a great forum!

That's a very nice gesture Freddy!

Being caretaker of the largest anthracite reserve in New England can make you quite benevolent.