Flue Types

Chimney Types & Flue Types

The type of chimney or flue you have dictates the type of fire you can have. But if you're not sure, then take a look at your roof and compare it with the simple guide below.

Can't see a chimney or a flue?

If you Can't see a chimney or a flue like the ones described below, then you will require either a Balance Flue, a Power Flue or an electric fire.

Class 1 Flue / Chimney

These are easily recognised as a conventional brick chimney with chimney stack on the roof. This relies on the natural 'pull' to expel the products of combustion out of the chimney pot. The minimum internal diameter for class 1 is 180mm. This allows you to have most types of fires. Existing stainless steel flue liners must be removed or replaced when fitting a new appliance. If possible take a photograph if their is anything other than a standard open pot.

Pre-Fabricated Flue (Class 2 Flue)

Is a metal flue box that is situated behind the fire connecting to a series of metal flue pipes running up through the house terminating with a pipe and terminal through the roof. The internal diameter of the pipe is normally 127mm. There are a large number of fires available for this application. 

We conduct a survey to confirm the correct connecting flue in the loft has been fitted, and in the correct orientation.

Pre-Cast Flue (Class 2 Flue)

 

These are commonly found in more modern homes. Constructed using hollow concrete flue blocks which create a flue up through the property usually terminating with a ridge vent on the roof. In most cases there is usually a flat wall where ther fire goes. This does limit slightly the choice of fires suitable as depth can be an issue.

 We conduct a survey to confirm the correct connecting flue in the loft has been fitted, and in the correct orientation.

Power Flue

Power Flue Gas Fires expel the flue gases directly outside the building through the use of an electronically driven fan unit mounted on the external wall.

A sophisticated microprocessor monitors performance and automatically shuts off the fire in the unlikely event of operation failure. The fan eliminates the need of a glass front. Power Flue fires  requires an electricity supply, and a clearance to your boundary.

A disadvantage of power flue fires is the existence, sometimes, of a draught in the room when the fire is turned off.

We supply tyhe Paragon Turbo Flue which incorporates a clever device, comprising of a flap which closes when the fire is off. We do not know of any other manufacturer that supplies such a product.

Balanced Flue

Either inset or outset, these fires have been designed for homes without a chimney or flue. All Balanced Flue Gas Fires are glass fronted. They vent directly outside through a horizontal concentric flue pipe (one pipe within a larger pipe). The outer pipe draws air in from the outside and the inner pipe expels combustion gases. An electricity supply is not required for these products. There is a clearance required between the flue and the boundary