I need to know if my chimney works?

look inside there should be a lever or handle to open the damper,

open it when you feel a draft light a small news paper hold it in the fire place if the flame & smoke is pulled up it works

You don't mention what kind of fireplace it is - I assume that it is a real wood burning stove or brick fireplace. You may find a control lever on the metal smoke stack or on the fireplace itself. This must be open in order to get a good "draft". Start a small fire or just a roll of newspaper to see if the smoke goes up. If you just bought this home it should have been inspected before the deal closed. If you are a renter, check with the land lord to see if he knows of any problems - he might want to get it cleaned for you (but I doubt that).

You should not build a fire without having a chimney sweep come out and clean it out for you first. He'll tell you if there are any problems. He will also help make sure you don't have a chimney fire from creosote build up.

If you do not want to set the house on fire or choke to death. I would suggest getting a chimney sweep. Have it done once and it will last for years. I love em so can I come and join you ?

have your chimney swept before you use it