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Smoke chamber install for a Chimney Balloon

Smoke chamber install for a Chimney Balloon

by | Mar 2, 2018 | Chimney Plugs

Smoke Chamber Install

Q: Jason – I previously ordered a 9X9 Chimney Balloon and it works fine for the flue (size 8″ square). What I don’t like about it is that the flue is about 5″ higher than the 12″ X 16″ smoke chamber. So when I place the 9×9 Chimney Balloon in the flue I have to really reach to get a good fit. Instead of getting your Chimney Balloon extension rod I figure it would be best to try and get another him Chimney Balloon to fit the 12 X 16 area above the damper. As I mentioned the 12 X 16 area (smoke chamber?) has only a 5-inch height then the flue begins. So if I understand correctly order a custom 12 X 18 and this would seal the area above my damper (12 X 16 X 5) Thanks, DT

A: Hi DT, It is true that a lower install location makes putting in a Chimney Balloon much easier, so I agree a larger Chimney Balloon for the smoke chamber is the way to go.

A custom 12×18 Chimney Balloon would work well for a 12″x16″ area. Remember, a Custom Chimney Balloon requires a 14 day build time, but it is worth the wait to get the correct size. You could consider a stock 24×12 Chimney Balloon, but I am concerned there will be too much extra Chimney Balloon material if you went with this size. If you get a Chimney Balloon that is more than 6″ oversize the extra material can make the install more difficult.

#99: What Chimney Plug Do I Use if I have No Damper?

#99: What Chimney Plug Do I Use if I have No Damper?

by | Aug 24, 2017 | Fireplaces

#99: What Chimney Plug Do I Use if I have No Damper?

99-1 Wide Open Chimney Flue

99-3 Flueblocker installed

99-4 Chimney Balloon installed

Fireplace #99: Wide-Open Smoke Chamber and Flue, No Hardware

These fireplaces with no damper or hardware are usually quite old. They represent a worst-possible-case-scenario for heating and cooling loss. Once you get this plugged, you will notice an immediate difference in the home.

You can basically take your pick from the chimney plugs we offer. You just need to select the height you want to plug the flue, and measure length and width of that location (image 99-1)
Here are the advantages of each:

  • The Flueblocker comes in many sizes. So you can select one that is slightly larger than your measurements and press-fit it in place. This wool pad offers a tight seal and insulation properties.  This is good if you prefer a fix it and forget it solution. (image 99-3)
  • The Chimney Balloon provides a tight seal and sound buffering capability. It is an inflatable, so it is less durable that the wool plug. The Chimney Balloon is about 10″ tall when inflated. So you must install it low in the flue where the walls are parallel, so it can grab the walls. It does particularly well at stopping odors and bugs. (image 99-4)