coal stove to existing fireplace

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chopper698

New Member
Feb 25, 2007
29
Just wanted to no whats the best way to go about installing a coal stove into my existing fireplace.
I dont have the stove yet but I am in search of a used one now. My fireplace is level with the floor, so
from the floor to the top of the opening the the fp is only 24 inches. I am going to have to open it up some and
more than likely have to use a stove with a flu to the back of the stove. Also am I going to have to use a s/s liner inside
the chimney? Thanks guys.
 
You might want to look at the Harmans or the Key Stokers with power vents.

If you can go wood instead of coal.;)
 
I have to disagree with Homefire on the last comment. Unless you have a supply of free or cheap wood, go with coal, not wood. You cant beat the heat/btu output and even with a handfired stove, the maintence is minimal. Just fill, shake twice a day, and empty the ashes. You wont be disappointed with coal. If your chimney is lined and in good shape, ss pipe is only needed to the first flue tile. I would look for an insert. Not sure on keystokers dimensions. You may find one small enough to fit.
 
flue tile is superior to stainless steel for coal chimneys, don't reline unless it's absolutely necessary.
 
So if I use my existing chimney flu which looks to be in good shape.
How far up do I go with pipe? And do I use ss or just black stove pipe.
 
Black would rust out really quick - like 2-3 years.
Stainless will last longer, especially 316 stainless.

If chimney is large (flue size) and cold (exterior chimney), then getting some coal stoves to work properly might be tough unless you line it all the way up. Coal produces a very low heat up the flue, which means poor draft in a large, cold flue.

Oversize chimneys can also reverse easier - which would bring dangerous coal gas into the living area. Make certain you install it correctly with tight fitting block off plate at bottom, etc.
 
Actually the chimney in my house runs through the center of the house.
So the only exterior part of the chimney is the very top. This chimney also
has another seperate flu for the boiler, running rite next to the fireplace
flu.
 
in that case you will likely be fine even though the flue may be larger than it should be.
 
Yeah that's a darn good location for a chimney in a house. Just making sure you have a nice, sealed, tight fitting block off plate.
 
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