I have a 1970's vintage built in steel fireplace insert encased in brick. It is double wall construction in back and three approximately 4" tubes that run from the back, through the chimney area (just below the damper) and exhaust into the room above the firebox. We are remodeling and would like to close up the large exhaust vent by bricking over it. Can this be safely done, or will the air in the tubes get hot enough to cause problems. If so, could holes be drilled in the tops of the tubes to let the heat enter the chimney? We do not use this fireplace for heat, just for looks, 3 or 4 times a year, but we want it to be safe.
Sealing warm air vents
- Thread starter denbe47
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I have the same type of fireplace and I wouldn't mess with it. Those tubes release a lot of heat and if you block them off it may cause massive heat build up and some near by frame wood to possibly get too hot and catch fire.
Another alternative is to cut out those tubes, install a stove insert (wood, gas or pellet) and reline the chimney with a stainless steel liner. Then you could brick over those vents.
Another alternative is to cut out those tubes, install a stove insert (wood, gas or pellet) and reline the chimney with a stainless steel liner. Then you could brick over those vents.
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