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Expert Q Ren Molnar Q&A Archive
Top > Hazards & Safety > Fire

Question:

They serviced the furnace this summer and brought to my attention the fact that the bottom end clay flue liner in the chimney had crumbled: chunks of it in the clean-out hole/bin. The costs of rebuilding would be horrendous. They recommended a 5" by 25' stainless steel flex pipe liner that I had them install. The chimney top is finished with a square SS plate and natural-gas-like cap that will keep out rain and snow whereas it was previously open to the elements. If the bottom clay liner was disintegrating, what is supporting those above? Will they come tumbling down in pieces? Also, the 5" SS pipe is much smaller than the old chimney; will the flue draw be the same? I am worried about back-up of gases.

Answer:

Before you do anything with the chimney, you'll have to get in touch with your furnace's manufacturer to find out what its requirements are and if the retrofit will satisfy them. Following that, your local building authority will have to determine whether you will be allowed to modify it at all.

Answered By: Ren Molnar

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