Can You Install a Wood Stove in a Fireplace?

Chimney and Flue Size

Deciding to install a wood stove into your existing fireplace can be a great way to save money on your home heating bills while adding a cosy and comforting atmosphere to your living space. Before deciding if you can install a wood stove into a fireplace, there are certain safety and regulatory aspects you should consider. 

The first thing to consider when deciding to install a wood stove in an existing fireplace is the chimney and the flue. The flue is the opening in your chimney which allows the fumes and smoke from the wood stove to escape. To ensure that the flue is big enough, combine the area of the wood stove flue with the area of the existing fireplace flue to calculate the total area. This number should not exceed 12 inches. 

Distance to Combustibles

Another important factor to consider is the distance from the wood stove to combustible materials. If combustible materials are too close to the wood stove, it can cause serious damage to anything nearby. To be safe, measurements are taken from the centre of the rear part of the stove to the nearest combustible material and this usually should not be less than 18 inches. 

Stove Heat Output

The existing fireplace also needs to be suitable for the wood stove that you wish to install. Wood stoves vary in terms of their heat output, so it is important to make sure that your fireplace can handle the heat output of the stove. If you decide to install a stove with a large output and the existing fireplace is not suitable, this could cause damage to the fireplace.

Ventilation

It is also important to make sure that your existing fireplace is correctly ventilated. This is necessary to ensure that the stove is able to burn correctly and safely. If your existing fireplace is not correctly ventilated, then you may need to install additional ventilation to prevent the build-up of toxic gases.

Can you open up an old fireplace for a wood burner?

Finally, if you want to install a wood stove but your existing fireplace is blocked up, you may need to open it up. In most instances, this will require permission from the local authority and a qualified engineer to work on the project. It is very important to make sure that the work is done safely and properly, as well as fully comply with all local regulations.

In conclusion, installing a wood stove in an existing fireplace can have many benefits, but it is important to make sure it is done safely and correctly. Make sure to assess the size of the flue, the distance to any combustibles, the heat output of the stove, and the level of ventilation. You may also need to gain permission to open up the existing fireplace, and in these instances, it is important to employ a qualified engineer to complete the work.