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II.- INSTALLATION
How the FIREPLACE is installed will be integral to its safety and good working
order.
It is very important that the fireplace is properly installed.
A safe installation of the FIREPLACE and the chimney can be difficult and it is
advisable to entrust the work to a professional. If you decide to do it yourself and
have any queries, consult an expert or call us directly at the factory.
To prevent the hood panels from overheating, you are advised to coat the inside of
the panels with an insulating material such as rock wool.
2.1.- CHIMNEYS
The performance of the FIREPLACE depends on:
The chimney.
The way it is operated.
The quality of the fuel used.
Over the years you will be able to change the type of fuel, but once installed the
chimney it is not easy to move. The following information will help you to decide
whether you can use the existing chimney or if you have to build a new one.
The base where you are going to place the Fireplace must have a flat surface without
any unevenness which will prevent it from fully insulating. The supporting base must
be made from heat-resistant materials.
2.1.1. How chimneys work
A basic understanding of how chimneys work will help you to get the most out of your
FIREPLACE. Their main functions are:
To vent the smoke and gases from the house without danger.
To draw enough air to the fireplace in order to keep the fire alive.
What is draught?
Hot air’s tendency to rise creates a draught.
When the FIREPLACE is lit the hot air goes up the chimney and into the outside
atmosphere. The chimney flue heats up and maintains the draught. The draught
works properly only once the chimney has heated up.
The position, size and height of the chimney affect the draught.
The following should be considered:
Chimneys located inside the house stay hot, so the draught is stronger.
The recommended size for the chimney maintains a good draught.
The height of the chimney affects the draught; the higher the better the draught.
The chimney must protrude by at least one metre over the highest part of the roof.
There are other factors which affect the draught:
Trees and/or high buildings near the house.
The wind speed. Generally continuous strong winds increase the draught, but stormy
winds can reduce it.
Outside temperature. The colder the outside air, the better the draught.
Barometric pressure. On rainy, humid or stormy days the draught is usually weak .