20
WinterWarm Fireplace Insert or System
2000941
Flex
Connector
1/4” (6mm)
Nut
Pipe
Support
1/4” (6mm)
Nut
Pipe
Support
Block-Off
Plate
1/4”
(6mm)
Screw
Starter Piece
(Optional)
1/4”
(6mm)
Wing Nut
1/4” (6mm)
Washer
1/4” (6mm) Bolt
FP1087
Fig. 22 Components of the Flex Connector System.
Consult a Vermont Castings’ Authorized Dealer for
installation suggestions. It may be possible to enlarge
the opening by removing or modifying the damper
frame, but do this only if it won’t weaken the fireplace.
Check with your local building inspector to be sure
modifications comply with local codes.
Although the Flex Connector is designed to be installed
by any mechanically competent person, wide variations
in fireplace and damper construction can complicate
the installation. You may wish to have the job done by a
professional installer. Complete detailed installation
instructions are included with the Flex Connector
components.
A Custom Damper Seal
If the design of your fireplace damper prohibits the use
of the CFM Specialty Home Products Sealing Package,
an alternative is to fabricate a custom sealing plate at
or below the fireplace damper frame. The plate can be
fastened securely to the lintel (the structural piece
spanning the fireplace opening) and to the surrounding
masonry, or be securely fastened to the damper frame.
A section of chimney connector, attached to the Winter-
Warm flue collar, must make a positive flue connection
where required by code.
A Relined Chimney
There are a number of fittings available from your
Vermont Castings’ Authorized Dealer that are designed
to form the connection between your WinterWarm and
an 8" (203mm) diameter chimney liner. Your dealer as
well as your local chimney sweep can advise you on
the types of lining systems currently available.
Preliminary Steps for Installing the
WinterWarm into a Masonry Fireplace
1. Remove the Masonry Fireplace Damper
The existing damper plate within your fireplace must be
removed or, if that is not possible, must be fastened
securely in a fully-open position. Many dampers can be
removed simply by removing a cotter pin and/or set
screw.
2. Install the Flex Connector
Following the installation instructions that are packed
with the Flex Connector, unfold the template that came
with the WinterWarm. (Fig. 23) Carefully glue the
template onto a large piece of sturdy cardboard or
plywood, making sure that the fold lines have been
flattened. Cut along the edges of the template and use
it to place the Flex Connector components correctly in
your fireplace.
Custom Fabrication:
Be sure any chimney connector or adapter is properly
installed and secured in place. There should be a slip
joint near the WinterWarm so that the connection can
be easily disengaged for removal and cleaning of the
unit.
Template
FP1088
Fig. 23 Using the template that came with the WinterWarm
will help you position Flex Connector.
