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pellet stove insert questions Keith 03-10-2007
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Posted by Keith on March 10, 2007, 1:50 pm


I have a non-functioning centrally located fireplace where I'd like to put
a small pellet stove insert. I have a few basic questions so I even know
what to look for;

1. Are inserts designed with the expectation that the existing firebox and
firebrick will be intact? To fit an insert in I'd probably have to remove
the existing firebrick because the fireplace is so shallow. Does this
become a fire hazard, or are inserts designed to take this into account?

2. typically speaking, what it the longest vertical exhaust run permitted
without additional exhaust fans? I live in an old 2-story house with high
ceilings, so the exhaust would be vented up through two tall stories then
the attic, so it has a way to go.

3. If it is even permitted, do any pellet stoves come with powerfans
allowing a downward vent to exhaust down through the basement then out the
of the basement wall outside the house? It would be a /lot/ easier (and
shorter) than trying to go up.

Thank you for any advice,
Keith
Central Michigan

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Posted by Lawrence on March 10, 2007, 4:06 pm


> I have a non-functioning centrally located fireplace where I'd like to put
> a small pellet stove insert. I have a few basic questions so I even know
> what to look for;
>
> 1. Are inserts designed with the expectation that the existing firebox and
> firebrick will be intact? To fit an insert in I'd probably have to remove
> the existing firebrick because the fireplace is so shallow. Does this
> become a fire hazard, or are inserts designed to take this into account?

Those are some rather technical questions. It may be best to consult
with the maker of the insert or stove. My take: I think it would be a
shame to remove brick from an existing fireplace, for whatever
reason. You should be able to arrange something which will allow you
to avoid it. Perhaps a short horizonatal run of pipe and an elbow
would do it.
>
> 2. typically speaking, what it the longest vertical exhaust run permitted
> without additional exhaust fans? I live in an old 2-story house with high
> ceilings, so the exhaust would be vented up through two tall stories then
> the attic, so it has a way to go.

I do not know what the longest run would be but do not think there is
any problem with a two story run of flue. It's commnon enough. I
have never heard of any fans used with that type of appliace. You
should have your flue cleaned and inspected by a pro before doing
this. Old flues can have problems and may not be safe.

> 3. If it is even permitted, do any pellet stoves come with powerfans
> allowing a downward vent to exhaust down through the basement then out the of
the basement wall outside the house? It would be a /lot/ easier (and
> shorter) than trying to go up.

Never heard of it and it sounds dangerous. If the flue is in place
then it hardly seems easier than using an existing flue.


Posted by Charles Schuler on March 10, 2007, 4:47 pm



>I have a non-functioning centrally located fireplace where I'd like to put
> a small pellet stove insert. I have a few basic questions so I even know
> what to look for;

I'd check out that fireplace and its chimney before doing anything.



Posted by k on March 11, 2007, 9:44 pm



>I have a non-functioning centrally located fireplace where I'd like to put
> a small pellet stove insert. I have a few basic questions so I even know
> what to look for;
>
> 1. Are inserts designed with the expectation that the existing firebox and
> firebrick will be intact? To fit an insert in I'd probably have to remove
> the existing firebrick because the fireplace is so shallow. Does this
> become a fire hazard, or are inserts designed to take this into account?
>
> 2. typically speaking, what it the longest vertical exhaust run permitted
> without additional exhaust fans? I live in an old 2-story house with high
> ceilings, so the exhaust would be vented up through two tall stories then
> the attic, so it has a way to go.
>
> 3. If it is even permitted, do any pellet stoves come with powerfans
> allowing a downward vent to exhaust down through the basement then out the
> of the basement wall outside the house? It would be a /lot/ easier (and
> shorter) than trying to go up.
>
> Thank you for any advice,
> Keith
> Central Michigan

I've heated with a pellet insert in out kitchen fireplace for 12 seasons
now. When you install the insert, you will remove the flue mechanism and
replace it with a metal plate, through which a hole has been cut to allow
the short length of flex pipe to exhaust your stove. It's not a big deal.

If you can't find a pellet model that will fit your fireplace, you could
either put a free-standing stove in front of the fireplace, with the same
venting solution, or place the stove near an outside wall and use standard
pellet vent. If you use the fireplace and existing chimney, have the chimney
cleaned before you install, and after that inspections will be all that's
required. If your chimney is extremely tall, ask the store where you buy
the stove. My own chimney has inlets in the basement, and it goes up two
stories from there, then through the peaked roof, so I'd guess 35 ft.

Keith too.



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