Fire and stove ventilation and outlet
Where there is fire, there is smoke. For all types of fires and stoves, good ventilation and proper exhaustion are therefore essential. There are, however, various points of attention for gas-burning fires and heaters and wood-burning stoves and fires.
Open and closed combustion systems: a brief explanation
For the combustion of gases, wood or other fuels, an oxygen supply is always required. The supply of oxygen can derive from the room where the fire or stove is located, as well as from the outside of the building, this is called open or closed combustion. This difference also affects the method of ventilation and outlet for your fire or stove.
Can I also install a fire or stove if I do not have a chimney?
Even if your home does not have a chimney or other existing flue gas outlet, it is in most cases possible to install a fire or stove. Most contemporary gas heaters and gas fires are fitted with a closed combustion system, which does not require a traditional chimney. The unique PowerVent® system from DRU offers even more possibilities for installing a gas fire.
Which gas flue outlet material can I use?
DRU fires, wall heaters and stoves with a closed combustion system must be connected to a DRU concentric gas flue. The fires are tested and approved according to CE standards with this flue system. This way you can be sure that the appliance and the outlet are in harmony with each other and function properly.
Can I use my existing chimney for the gas flue outlet?
Whether you can use an existing chimney depends on the dimensions of the flue. If the existing chimney has a diameter of at least 150 mm, it is possible to make a concentric gas flue duct from your chimney. A stainless steel flexible tube with a diameter of 100 mm is then inserted through the chimney. The flue gases are exhausted to the outside through this flexible tube. The remaining space in the chimney flue provides fresh oxygen supply to your fire or stove. A special cowl is fitted on top of the chimney to separate outgoing flue gases and incoming oxygen.
Can the flue gas outlet also run through the outside wall?
It is possible to connect the gas fuel duct to an outside wall or through the roof. The construction of a new chimney is usually not necessary. There are possibilities to horizontally extend the gas flue duct to a length of 60 metres. Ask the dealer / installer for the best option in your specific situation.
Can my ceiling and walls become discoloured by burning fires?
When fires or stoves are properly installed, they do not cause discolouration of your ceiling or walls. It is true that dust particles in the room from, for example, pets or chemicals in new paints and plastering materials may cause some discolouration. This applies when burning candles; always use good quality candles and ensure that there is adequate ventilation in the room where the fire is installed.
It also helps to keep the room that you are heating as dust-free as possible. In a new house it is wise to wait at least six weeks before using a fire, so that most of the building moisture has disappeared. This will prevent unnecessary brown discolouration on the walls and ceiling.