Options for aftermarket or custom chimney pipe for Heatilator Mark 123 model 3336

[dchatham]

Hi everyone,

Our condo association has ~105 units with Heatilator 123 model 3336 fireplaces and the association is responsible for maintenance of the rooftop chimney only. Many of them, if not most, are in need of repair. We understand the model is not made and the manufacturer does not make the specific chimney pipe any longer. We are trying to find aftermarket chimney pipes that could be backwards compatible with these fireplaces or a company that might custom make chimney pipes.

While contacting Heatilator, we just keep getting redirected to local fireplace dealers that tell us the fireplace is discontinued and they cannot order parts from the manufacturer. These local dealers say to replace the entire firebox to chimney systems, though in some cases the only problems are rusty chimney caps, or bent spark screens - not enough to justify a full system replacement.

Any ideas or suggestions? With over 100 units, we have a high need and hope to find some options.

Sincerely,
Daniel

 

[begreen]

This was a very popular fireplace 50+ yrs ago. Heatilator made the complete system for these fireplaces. The chimney pipe and cap are obsolete. 9" chimney pipe is an odd size. There are no substitutes that I know of. The manual states that only the listed components are allowed to be used. If the cap has deteriorated it is possible that the chimney pipe insulation has gotten wet and is compromised. In that case, a complete replacement is necessary.

 

[dchatham]

Thanks for that feedback. I haven't found specifications on the pipe sizes and didn't know it is an odd size. The cap conditions are quite varied from not very rusty to really rusty. Same as the pipes and flanges. Our inspection photos are in the attachment and probably have more photos of these chimneys than are seen in one place these days.

If a manufacturer says you can only use my repair parts and then quits making them, does that grant us more latitude to use aftermarket replacements as long as they are backward compatible and meet specifications? I wonder if we might get piping custom made to the same specifications.

 

[begreen]

If Heatilator approves an alternate and provides an attachment adapter to connect then maybe, but that is quite unlikely. Again, 9" pipe is not common. Custom-made pipe replacement pipe is not an option without approval by Heatilator. If permissible, it would cost a fortune and need to be tested and UL certified as well as approved by Heatilator (and insurance companies).

 

[dkrieter]

Hello Dchatham,

Have you found a solution for the Heatilator chimney parts? We are in the same situation; except we only have the one chimney. We are looking for a replacement terminal cap and an extension for the 14inch pipe. We are also looking for aftermarket parts but haven't found anything yet. Everything else is in good condition and we really aren't in a position to replace the entire fireplace/chimney yet. thanks!