Can I Use Duct Pipe for Wood Stoves?

Author: Sean Summers, NFI Master Hearth Certified Technician – WoodstovePro.com

At WoodstovePro.com, we receive tons of customer questions every year about safe wood stove installation and venting. In this article, we will be answering these questions. Let’s start with a common - and dangerous - question:

Can I Use Duct Pipe for Wood Stoves?

The short answer is no. You should never use duct pipe for a wood stove. Duct pipe is designed for low-temperature air movement (like HVAC systems), not for the extreme heat that wood stoves produce.

Wood stoves can reach temperatures of 400°F to 900°F or higher. Duct pipe, which is often galvanized steel, begins to break down under those conditions. When heated, galvanized coatings can release toxic fumes, and the thin metal can warp or fail, leading to smoke leaks or even fire hazards.

Instead, always use stove pipe or Class A chimney pipe - aka, materials specifically engineered to handle high temperatures safely and maintain proper clearances from combustibles.

What’s the Difference Between Duct Pipe and Stove Pipe?

It’s easy to confuse the two because they look similar at a glance.

• Duct pipe: Made for ventilation, typically thin, single-wall galvanized metal. It is not heat-rated for solid fuel use.
  
  
• Stove pipe (connector pipe): Made of heavy-gauge black steel or double-wall construction, designed for connecting your stove to a chimney system.
  
  
• Class A chimney pipe: Double- or triple-wall insulated pipe for venting smoke outside your home. It’s the only kind approved to pass through walls, ceilings, or roofs.

How Do I Know What Pipe My Stove Needs?

Each wood stove has specific venting requirements listed in the owner’s manual. If you’re unsure, check the model number and contact an NFI Certified Hearth Professional for help selecting compatible pipe. At WoodstovePro.com, we carry top-rated brands like DuraVent, Selkirk, Metal-Fab, and Security Chimneys—each offering pipe tested to UL103HT standards.

Do I need a chimney liner for my existing fireplace?

Yes, inserts require properly sized liners for safe draft and performance.

How far should my stove pipe be from the wall?

Typically, 18 inches for single-wall pipe, or as close as 6 inches for double-wall pipe (check your manufacturer’s manual).

Can I install my own stove?

Some people do, but hiring a certified installer ensures compliance with local codes and maintains your warranty.

The Takeaway

I hope this has cleared up some of your questions about stoves and pipes! Use the right pipe for the job to protect your home, your investment, and your family.

For expert advice on choosing the correct venting components or stove, contact WoodstovePro.com at 888-418-0005 or info@woodstovepro.com. Our certified professionals are always happy to help.