Five Liner Estimates and No Straight Answers.

[JedThompson]

I've had five chimney companies out and the answers I'm getting are all over the map. I've got a vented gas fireplace with an unlined brick chimney. The company that was hired to do the job tried to install an 11x7 SS liner and failed. Then came back and tried to install an 8 inch round SS liner, and failed. There's a bend in the chimney they just can't get past.

Here are the options I've been given by new companies as well as a photo of the chimney's condition. I do not want any sort of insert or ventless system. I'm only interested in making this set up the safest that it can be, whether that's to code or not.

A - 6 inch round SS liner. (I believe this to be undersized given my firebox opening, 36W x 28H x 16D)

B - Filling the unlined flue with refractory concrete in a method similar to a HeatShield application. This appears to be more appropriate for a flue with clay tiles, however mine is bare masonry.

C - Use the gas fireplace as is with extra carbon monoxide detectors. The flue is undersized for the fireplace and can't be brought to code and there are currently no drafting or carbon monoxide issues.

 

[EatenByLimestone]

What size is your fireplace opening and how big is your chimney opening?

 

[EbS-P]

6” insulated with a wood burning insert. You will be happy and warm. I will never go back to an open fireplace.

 

[begreen]

A - 6 inch round SS liner. (I believe this to be undersized given my firebox opening, 36W x 28H x 16D)

That's correct, it would need a larger liner. Do you know the ID of the chimney? It looks like maybe 14" x 16"?? but may choke down. If so, I am wondering if a slightly ovalized 12" flex liner could be installed? @bholler is the expert on chimneys and may have another suggestion.

 

[bholler]

I would say roughly 16× 12 inside but I see what looks like a step in further down. An ovalized 12" is the proper size just not sure it would fit. 11 is just slightly undersized when round but would be more so if ovalized. You need roughly 100 sq inches