Should I Insulate OAK?

[offingmoot]

have an insert
OAK is hooked up behind insert out the side of chimney

i was wondering what the impact of insulating it would be
i didnt have a chance during winter last year to pull it out and see if there is any condensation on it, so its not to fix that problem

would i possibly hurt or enhance the efficiency by insulating it?

 

[offingmoot]

since the piping is behind the insert, room air doesnt have to warm the cold oak.......the stove is doing the warming, no?

i know with cars people install cold air intakes for added horsepower or performance

if cold air is better for engine combustion i thought maybe it would be better for the insert as well

anyone else have input??

 

[imacman]

Can't hurt any to insulate it, if you want to do it. Might help efficiency a little bit, but nothing noticeable, IMO.