Expert: James Ball - 12/16/2008

Question
Hi!  I just bought a two-year old Avalon Rainier at auction and am trying to
install it in my fireplace in the basement.  I took the damper off because I
know I need to stick about 5 feet of stainless steel flex pipe through it to
around where the first flue tile is, but the damper area is narrower than the 6"
stainless steel flex pipe.  I took the damper door off, but the "frame" around
the damper door is a little restrictive (it's like maybe 5 inches wide).  Apart
from getting a guy to come out with a cutting torch, can you give me any
suggestions about how to proceed????  THANKS!

Answer
Hello Arin, has the chimney been inspected by a certified sweep (it must be) (www.csia.org) we either cut part of the damper saddle with a Saw Zaw and cast iron blade or just have the last 4-5' of pipe ovalized to fit through the damper and drop it down from the top. I also do not do lining "just to the 1st flue tile" we either line and insulate to the top or do not do the work (Including later cleaning) have the certified sweep take a first hand look.
an insolated liner to the top will burn better, be safer and reduce the cleanings per year, it's just the best way to do it later cleaning in a fully lined system is very easy just run a brush up or down the flue. If you "just line to the 1st flue tile" you have to remove the stove, pipe and clean the flue and then replace every thing.
James