Wood burning and multi fuel stoves use flue pipes to help make them safe and functional. These provide the essential function of venting out smoke, fumes and gasses, making sure you can burn your fire safely. Without a flue pipe, smoke and fumes would not be able to escape. A flue pipe will vent these unwanted byproducts of burning wood and fuels, taking them straight outdoors. It will also help to protect your home against fires. It’s really important you make sure you have the right kind of flue pipe for your stove, and it is functioning correctly. It will also need to be installed correctly to ensure it will provide all of its essential functions.
What exactly is a flue pipe?
A flue pipe for a stove will usually be located in the chimney. It will be connected into the back of the stove, so that all byproducts will be remove and vented out of the chimney. The flue pipe should always be made of well insulated materials, which makes sure that the hot fumes and smoke being vented out will not cause any damage or accidental fires. If you have a brick chimney, this is considered to be a very good material for it.
One of the most important functions of the flue pipe is to remove carbon monoxide. This is a dangerous gas that can be very harmful to people, so it is important this is removed regularly.
Health and safety – flues that meet regulations and work effectively.
You will always need to make sure that you flue is working to the best of its ability. This doesn’t just make sure it is working efficiently in terms of making your home as warm as possible, it also means that it is working safely. The Government issue buildings regulations, and the UK Document J buildings regulations apply to flue pipes and chimneys. When you are replacing flues, make sure you consult with these to ensure you flue is doing all it should be for your property.
Flue installation
You may be able to install a flue yourself if you have good DIY skills. You should always check and sweep the chimney before installing a stove and flue, making sure that everything is functioning correctly and the chimney doesn’t require any additional work doing to it. When you install the flue, make sure you know what you are doing and follow all instructions perfectly. If you are at all unsure, call on an installation expert. They will also be able to install your stove for you, so you can have everything done in one go to get your stove up and running.
Choosing your flue
The flue and flue liner you select will all depend on your stove, and the existing chimney you have. Check the regulations, and check over your chimney to see whether it will require any work before installing a flue pipe. Ask when you purchase your stove – a stove retailer will be able to give you further information regarding your specific requirements.