Cranbrook Heating Limited

Do I need a chimney for a gas fire?

There are different types of gas fire, some of which do not require a chimney. Manufacturers instructions should be referred to. A gas fire usually takes it's air for combustion from the room and the products of combustion are discharged to outside through the chimney. If you do not have a chimney a balanced flue gas fire can often be installed on an outside wall. These gas fires take the air required for combustion from outside and also discharge products of combustion to outside. Another option is a flueless gas fire which doesn't need to be installed in a chimney or outside wall.

Do I need a flue liner for a gas fire?

A flue liner is not always necessary for a gas fire and the manufacturers instructions should be referred to. Often if the integrity of the chimney is sound (and it's swept prior to installation if previously used for coal) it's ok to install without a flue liner. I'd advise to have a suitable cowl fitted to prevent birds trying to build nests or entering the chimney that could cause a blockage, and to also install a carbon monoxide alarm in the room.

What is a flueless gas fire?

A flueless gas fire requires no chimney or flue. It has a catalytic converter to filter the products of combustion which are emitted into the room. For this reason it is recommended to have a carbon monoxide detector installed in the room. Flueless gas fires always require adequate permanent ventilation from outside to burn efficently and safely. They have built in safety devices and require annual servicing.