Installing a wood stove into an existing chimney

Installing a wood stove

If you have an existing chimney installing a wood stove is relatively easy. The fitter will usually insert a liner inside the existing chimney from the burner to the exit point. For straight chimneys this can made up of sections of jointed metal pipe, which can be either single or double skinned. A double skin is more airtight and lasts longer than a single skin but of course costs more.

For chimneys that aren’t perfectly straight, a flexible non-flammable liner is used. It is important to note, chimneys should be swept at least once a year and twice if they are in heavy use. Otherwise, creosote (a by-product of inefficient combustion) builds up on the walls of the chimney to become a fire hazard. Creosote builds up gradually over time as fires burn less efficiently when they are just getting started, but can accumulate very rapidly if you burn unseasoned or damp wood.

The real key to the improved efficiency of wood stoves is the way in which they control the air supply. Vents, usually mounted near the door, can be opened or closed to increase or decrease the airflow through the fire. When choosing your new stove do pay special attention to the airflow controls, a fitter will explain which fire would suit your home.

When installing a new burner it is vital to have it fitted by a registered professional for both safety and insurance purposes.

Can we help?

If you are thinking of installing a new burner or require your existing one serviced do make contact and one of our fitters will be happy to help.

http://kent-stoves.com/contact-stove-specialists/