Does Fireplace Insert Need Chimney Liner

When it comes to fireplace and chimney safety the chimney liner is one of the most important protective components.

Does fireplace insert need chimney liner.

It prevents hot embers in the smoke from slipping through a crack in the flue and igniting combustible materials around the chimney. By today s standards the installation of a hearth stove or insert where the connector pipe does not extend to at least the first flue tile is not acceptable even if the manufacturer s instructions don t require it. There are different types of chimney liners which you can use to line your chimney. The best installation option is the installation a stainless steel liner from the top of the stove to the top of the chimney.

Electric fireplace inserts use resistance from electrical elements to generate warm air for the room. There is a regulation that says your installer must satisfy themselves that the chimney is free from defects and suitable for its intended use. If you burn wood in your fireplace or in a wood burning stove it s recommended that you have a stainless steel liner to prevent overheating your chimney and risking a fire. A if you have or are installing a wood burning insert inside of your fireplace these must have a steel liner or a free standing wood stove where the manufacturer instructions require a steel liner.

One of the most common signs that you need a chimney liner is when you notice that your chimney walls are deteriorating at a faster than normal pace. In some locations your city s fire code may mandate that you install such a liner if you re making any changes to or installing a wood burning stove or fireplace. In such a case you ll need chimney tuckpointing to restore the damaged area. A liner going to an insert or stove in the fireplace will be measured from the top of the chimney to the top of the insert or stove or the center of the hole on the back of the stove.

When your liner is not in proper working condition the heat will damage your brick and mortar at a higher rate. When an installer checks your chimney they may find that the only way to provide you with a compliant and safe installation is to line the chimney. It stops carbon monoxide from seeping through porous bricks and mortar into your home. Please remember these liners are sold in 5 increments 15 20 25 so for instance an 18 chimney will need a 20 liner.

Unlike wood burning and direct vent systems electric fireplaces do not need a chimney to vent combustible byproducts. When you are converting your wood burning fireplace to a gas burning fireplace and using the existing chimney as a vent it is a good idea to install a flexible aluminum liner.