SL300 vs. DuraPLus chimney

[artfink]

I've considered all my options and it appears I will be going with the Qudrafire 7100FP. So, now the chimney.

Advantages and disavantages of the SL300 and DuraPlus triple walled? My understanding is with the SL300 I WOULD need the outside air cooling kit, and with the DuraPlus I would NOT need the cooling kit? Is one safer? Does one work better? Cost? I will have about 21-23ft.


Thanks

 

[Chad S.]

Thats funny, I have the same question posted at the same time!

 

[jtp10181]

We always install the SL300 unless the customer specifically asks for the DuraPlus. You are correct, the duraplus does not need the chimney air kit. The duraplus is going to be a LOT more expensive. The SL300 is just a basic air cooled chimney system whereas the DuraPlus is a high performance insulation wrapped and air insulated chimney. The Duraplus is supposed to give you higher stack temps and thus a better draft. We never use it on 7100 units so I don't know if its any better or not.

 

[artfink]

Appreciate the feedback. I'm a little worried about an air cooled chimney only because most of the models require a cooling duct run that is less than a certain length. My run for the cooling duct will be about 23-25ft which makes me worry if it will do what it is supposed to do. So I may spend the extra money and get the DuraPlus.

 

[jtp10181]

You not only need the Chimney air which is 4" but you also need a 6" combustion air intake. With the Duraplus you only have to run the 6".

I don't think the Quad manuals state any max lengths for either run. We run them over 25ft occasionally and have not had any problems I am aware of.

 

[artfink]

I'd like to revisit this issue and get more feedback.

What are the advantages of using the DuraPLus vs the SL300?

 

[jtp10181]

I've already stated the facts, what more do you want?

 

[artfink]

Just seeing if there are other opinions. And I also want to make sure i'm having a safe unit installed. I'm not completely comfortable with the SL300 and thought I and my three kids might sleep better at night with a better chimney set-up

 

[jtp10181]

We have installed 100's of fireplaces with SL300 pipe. It is a perfectly safe UL tested chimney system.