Expert: James Ball - 11/9/2008

Question
I have a very old (1915), very small (20" wide, 11" deep), coal-burning fireplace.  The chimney and smoke chamber are unlined bricks and mortar.

I would like to install a small (28000 btu) freestanding gas burner that has fake coals to look like a coal fire.
 
To line the chimney, I understand I would need a metal flue liner run down it.  The question arises as to what to do about the smoke chamber, which is large and irregular in shape.  I have been told that a chimney professional would probably have to tear apart the firebox to access the smoke chamber to parge it and anchor the bottom of the liner pipe.

I don't want to tear up the firebox, for a number of reasons.  I don't want to go with a ventless insert, either, because of the CO and water vapor emissions.

Is there some way that a metal hood could be affixed to the top of the original firebox, with the liner tube attached to it and running up through the smoke chamber and chimney?  This is only a small gas fire, not a huge fireplace that will burn enormous roaring wood fires. Thanks.

Answer
Hello Ann, what does the manufacture say about installation (you must follow them). Is this a stove with a pipe and if so bring the liner all the way down to the stove?
I have a "direct vent" gas stove and I love mine....no chimney it goes out the side of the building....I have a Jotul and it is 83% efficient
James Ball