Date: 21/7/2022
Version Number: 2022 Issue no.3
Page
10
A chimney may comply with regulations but could still be subject to downdraught and similar
problems. A chimney terminating above the ridge level is less likely to suffer such problems.
If a new chimney is being provided it should fully comply with the relevant Building Regulations
that specify the requirements for solid fuel burning installations. Suitable types of chimneys include
the following:
·
Masonry Chimney: Built with clay or concrete liners, or a chimney
block system meeting Building Regulations. These types of chimneys
should be installed in accordance with the Building Regulations and
BS EN15287-1: 2007.
·
Factory Made Insulated Chimney: Complying with BS 4543: Part 2 (often
called Class 1 prefabricated metal chimney). These types of chimneys should
be installed in accordance with Building Regulations and BS EN 15287-1: 2007.
Due to the gradual introduction of European Chimney Standards chimneys will be specified
according to their performance designation as defined in BS EN 1443 that covers the General
Requirements for chimneys. The minimum performance designation required for use with solid fuel
burning stoves is T450 N2 S D3.
Ensure that the flue pipe diameter is not less than the diameter of the appliance outlet.
The flue and chimney installation must be carefully checked by a competent person before fitting the
stove to ensure it is suitable and will work safely.
If the chimney is old (i.e., Built of brick or stone without a liner) or being opened for reuse,
additional checks and smoke testing as described in Appendix E of the Approved Document J 2010
Edition should also be carried out to ensure the flue and chimney are in good operating condition.
Check the existing flue is in good condition with suitable access for collection and removal of debris.
It is also important that suitable flue pipe (recommended at least 600mm in length) complying with
the Building Regulations is used to connect the stove to the flue in the chimney. Suitable access
should be provided into the flue for regular inspection and sweeping of the flue ways.
The installer should comply with Building Regulations requirements in respect of providing a Notice
Plate giving details on the chimney, flue lining, hearth, and fireplace installation.
Chimneys should be as straight as possible. Horizontal runs should be avoided except where the rear
outlet of the appliance is used, in which case the horizontal section should not exceed 150mm in
length. If necessary, a combination of 45°and 90° bends can be used if the sum of their angles is not
greater than 180° in total. IE: four x 45° bends or two x 45° and a 90°bend.
If the stove is working hard but produces very little output to the room it is likely that excess draw is
present in the chimney, and that heat is being sucked out of the appliance and up the chimney. If this
is the case we recommend the fitting of a draught stabilizer in preference to a flue damper, in the
interest of safety and efficiency.
