Air-cooled Chimneys

Some of our fireplaces are compatible with double-wall or triple-wall "air-cooled" chimney systems. While these types of chimneys are less costly to purchase and install than insulated chimneys, we do not recommend the use of air-cooled chimneys in our cold weather environment here in New York State. The extreme cold can lead to condensation in the fireplace system and lead to pre-mature corrosion of the metal. Also, cold air infiltration into the home and poor draft performance can be problems. 

We recommend the use of insulated chimney systems whenever possible. Insulated chimneys are more costly and more difficult to install in some cases. However, they react better to the cold weather and improve performance and the longevity of the entire system.

Our brands of wood fireplaces that support insulated chimney systems are Security, Security BIS, Supreme

The remainder of our fireplace brands do not support insulated chimneys and only use the air-cooled chimneys, making them less suitable for use in our cold weather area. However, for high-efficiency units that are kept burning almost the entire winter there is less of an issue. For occasional use fireplaces, such as when week-ending, we recommend the use of insulated chimneys.

For more information about the right choices for your chimney please consult our fireplace specialist, Sean Kennedy. 

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