Answers About . . . Chimney Pipe

What is stove or connector pipe?

Stove pipe, technically called connector pipe, connects your stove to a chimney or vent system to send exhaust gases out of your house. It's typically made of a single layer of heavy-gauge, cold-rolled steel, and it is often known as black pipe. It is a crucial component of a wood stove—meaning you have to have it. Sometimes double-walled black pipe is used in place of single-wall black pipe to enable closer clearances to combustibles, and although it is a double-walled pipe, it is still considered stove pipe or connector pipe.

Stove pipes are not the same thing as chimney pipes although you frequently hear them discussed together. Stove pipes are for interior use only and are smaller in outside diameter than chimney pipes, which are typically installed outdoors. Chimney pipes are made of a double- or triple-layer metal and provide insulation to keep heat from escaping.

Is stove pipe necessary to run my fireplace?

It depends. All solid fuel fireplaces (wood, pellet, coal) must be vented to the outside, which requires pipe. Direct-vent gas fireplaces or gas log sets also need piping to vent the carbon monoxide. 

Electric fireplaces and vent-free gas fireplaces or gas log sets do not need piping.

How hot do wood stoves get?

Temperatures for wood stoves have many variables such as the type of wood you’re burning, solid fuel moisture content, and the amount of airflow to your fire. For peak efficiency and to keep creosote from building up in your chimney, the ideal temperature range is between 400°F and 600°F. 

Burning too hot can damage your stove, and burning too cool can cause creosote to build up in your chimney. Don’t guess on your temperature; use a stovepipe thermometer to be sure you’re in range. 

What chimney brands are compatible with my wood stove?

This is not a simple answer. There are many variables involved in the chimney you need for your wood-burning stoves and fireplaces, and it’s best to talk it over with an expert before buying your chimney material. We are happy to help you find what you need, call us at 888-418-005.

What is all-fuel chimney pipe and do I have to get a certain kind?

All-fuel chimney pipe is (as the name implies) designed to be used with all fire fuel types: wood, gas, pellets, or biofuels. Many companies manufacture all-fuel chimney pipe, which is also known as Class A chimney pipe. Class A is an insulated chimney pipe that comes in a variety of diameters to match the specific heating source or appliance. Some all-fuel chimneys are made of stainless steel and feature twist-lock couplings for quick installation. 

Often the term Class A is used in reference to insulated double walled chimney systems such as Metal Fab Temp Guard, DuraVent DuraTech, Duravent DuraPlus, Selkirk Ultra Temp, and Selkirk SuperPro pipe. 

Can I use a duct pipe for my wood stove?

No, duct pipe is not built to handle the intense heat produced by a wood stove, which can lead to damage and potential fire hazards. Duct pipe is often galvanized steel which will create dangerous off gases when under intense heat. Chimney and some connector pipes are made with multiple wall layers for better insulation, while duct pipes are typically single-wall. Plus, using the wrong pipe for your wood stove may violate local building codes. 

What is the difference between double-wall and single-wall stove pipe?

If you have only 6 to 18 inches of clearance between your wall and your stove, you need to use a double-wall pipe because it is air insulated. The outside of double-wall pipe does not radiate heat like single-wall pipe and is always recommended for use in a mobile home. 

Double-wall pipe typically 

• Lasts longer and improves the performance of your fireplace because the flue will have a higher and more consistent temperature
• Costs more than single-wall pipe
• Produces less creosote
• Offers fewer size options    

If you have a clearance of 18" or more, you can choose either single-wall or double-wall. Single-wall pipe typically

• Is less costly than double-wall pipe
• Radiates heat back into your room 
• Comes in a variety of sizes

What kind of stove pipe do you use outside?

A wood stove needs a stovepipe, also called a chimney connector or black pipe, to connect the stove to the outside of the building:

A stovepipe is used to connect the stove to a masonry chimney or prefabricated metal chimney. Insulated chimney is the only pipe that can pass through combustibles and can be used outside. The stovepipe is sometimes referred to as a connector. Single wall, 24-gauge or thicker, corrosion-resistant steel stovepipe is recommended. If the stovepipe diameter is over 10 inches, a heavier gauge metal must be used.

Most stoves do not include vent pipe. It will need to be purchased separately.

How high does a wood stove pipe need to be above the roof?

The chimney should extend at least 3 feet above the highest point where it passes through the roof surface. It should also be at least 2 feet higher than any part of the building within a horizontal distance of 10 feet. 

To calculate your necessary chimney height, please read our article The 10-Foot, 2-Foot, 3-Foot Rule. 

How do you clean chimney pipe?

A clean chimney is vital to the efficiency and safety of your wood-burning fireplace or stove. It’s a big job that requires time, knowledge, and special equipment. We recommend hiring a professional chimney sweep in your area; however, there are products and tutorials available for doing the job yourself. Call us at 888-418-0005 or email info@woodstovepro.com to discuss which option is best for your situation.