8
INSPECTION & CLEANING
Check that the chimney is in good condition, dry and free from cracks and obstructions. The
diameter of the chimney should not be less than 150mm and not more than 230mm. If any of
these requirements are not met, the chimney should be lined by a suitable method.
The chimney must be swept before connection to the fireplace. Where the chimney is believed
to have previously served an open fire installation, it is possible that the higher flue gas
temperature from the fireplace may loosen deposits that were previously firmly adhered, with
the consequent risk of flue blockage. It is therefore recommended that the chimney be swept a
second time within a month of regular use after installation.
Assuming that when the fireplace is first installed, the chimney is clean, and sound, then the
chimney flue should be inspected part way through the burning season to establish the
regularity of sweeping required. If you have any doubts about the suitability of your chimney,
consult your local dealer/stockiest.
AIR FOR COMBUSTION
Any room or space containing a fireplace should have a permanent air vent opening of at least
the sizes shown in the table below. For fireplaces designed to burn “hardwood” solid fuels, the
air supply should be designed to accommodate burning the fuel that produces the highest
heating output.
FIREPLACE AIR SUPPLIES
Permanently open vents as below:
If design air permeability>5.0m3/(h.m2) then
Stove with no flue draught
550mm2/kW of appliance rated output above 5kW
stabilizer
If design air permeability<5.0m3/(h.m2) then
550mm2/kW for balance of appliance rated output
There must always be a permanent means of providing air for combustion into the room in
which the fire is installed. A permanent vent with a total free area of at least 550mm2 for every
kW rated above 5kW should be connected directly to the outside air or an adjacent room which
itself has a permanent vent of the same size direct to the outside air
. The fitting of an
extractor fan to either of these rooms is not permitted.
CONNECTION TO THE CHIMNEY
This MUST be carried out by an accredited/competent person and/or approved by your local
authority before using the fireplace.
Any existing flue must be in good condition with suitable access for collection and removal of
debris.
It is also important that suitable flue pipe complying with manufacturer recommendations is
used to connect the fireplace to the chimney flue and that suitable access is provided into the
