Are Fireplaces the Only Systems that Have Flue Liners?
Chimney liners are always present in wood-burning fireplaces that have flues because they are necessary for the removal of smoke. However, chimney flues are also utilized by appliances that burn fuels such as gas, propane, and oil because they allow for the introduction of fresh air into the combustion chamber as well as the venting of exhaust to the outside air. The low maintenance cost and long life of clay tiles make them a popular choice for usage in a variety of applications, including fireplaces. Clay tile liners are susceptible to the excessive condensation that is found in the exhaust of higher efficiency gas appliances (furnaces, water heaters, and boilers), which, over the course of time, has the potential to cause damage to chimney liners.
Should You Install a Flue Liner Kit in Your Chimney?
If a chimney that has a damaged flue pipe is used to exhaust a fuel heating device, there is a risk that carbon monoxide will enter the residence via the damaged liner. This risk is compounded by the fact that a blocked chimney or gaps in the chimney may allow carbon monoxide to enter. Flue liner kits are frequently required in situations in which fuel-efficient modern appliances are vented through masonry chimneys that are lined with old clay tiles. This is because the exhaust from these fuel-efficient systems is wet and corrosive.
Flue liner kits typically consist of aluminum (exclusively for use with natural gas fuel) or stainless steel, and their performance is comparable to or even superior to that of the clay flue tile type that was initially installed. When shopping for a chimney flue liner kit, it is important to think about the byproducts of combustion that the chimney will be venting and select the lining material that is most suitable for your chimney. Also, keep in mind that in order to extend the life of your relined chimney, you will need to have a chimney flue cap installed.
The only person who can stop chimney fires is you.
The worst thing that might happen to your flue liner is for your chimney to catch fire. Clay tile liners are able to withstand high temperatures, but they are no match for flames that occur in the flue. Burning wood results in an excessive buildup of creosote, which can catch fire inside the chimney liner and cause a chimney fire. Chimney fires are the result of this. Once a chimney fire has started, it is extremely difficult to put it out, and the resulting damage to the chimney tiles nearly usually includes cracks and breaks.
Once there is a breach in the chimney liner, it will no longer be able to hold the byproducts of combustion. If the flue pipes leading into the chimney are damaged in any way, this will allow heat, smoke, and carbon monoxide to escape the chimney and into your home. Because of this, it is imperative that you hire a chimney sweep at least once a year to clean your fireplaces and wood stoves so that your chimney can remain in good working order.
Cleaning and Inspection Services for Chimneys
Fireplaces that burn gas or wood and have flues, like all chimneys, need to be inspected and maintained on a yearly basis to ensure that they are in excellent working order and provide adequate ventilation. Creosote and soot can collect harmful deposits over time, which, if not addressed, can lead to a blockage in the chimney or a fire that poses a serious risk to human life. Every chimney needs to have annual visits from a chimney sweep for the purpose of cleaning and inspecting the flues in order to prevent poor performance or something even worse.
Because there are frequently no evident indicators of damage or blockage of the chimney passageway, the best way to stay ahead of potential problems is to have a professional chimney sweeper service your chimney liner on a regular basis. The easiest way to protect your chimney from a flue fire is to clean out the creosote in the chimney of your wood stove or fireplace before there is an overwhelming buildup of creosote.
If you have any concern or inquiries but is not sure you can call Local chimney Sweep Cleaning to help you. We also offer professional Chimney Cleaning Byron and repairing.