by blogediter | Jun 19, 2019 | Chimney Problems
Q: I have a very old fireplace that is not operational and I use strictly for decoration. the flue in masonry and unlined. It was capped/closed at the top by the previous owners. I want to get a Chimney Balloon because I suspect that there is still heat loss through this flue gave the age of the house–120+ years old.
However, I also like to burn decorative candles in the fireplace from time to time. Will the Chimney Balloon work in this case or do I need to find something more fireproof? how much space should I allow between the candles and the Chimney Balloon? Thanks.- PH
A: A Chimney Balloon will help this capped chimney retain more heat by closing it low in the flue and tight. But you don’t want it too close to the flame because it is designed to melt and release at a temperature of 180-230 degrees Fahrenheit.
If you keep the candles at least 3 feet away from the Chimney Balloon and keep the wicks trimmed you should not have a problem. But if you have 12 candles raging in the fireplace with long smokey flames you could easily get up to the 180-230 Degree flash point.
Personally, I burn a 6 candle candelabra in my fireplace in the summer and I have a 9×9 Chimney Balloon installed about 3 feet above them…and I have never had a problem. – Jason
by blogediter | Aug 1, 2018 | Chimney Plugs
Zero clearance Majestic brand fireplace
Q: We have a zero clearance fireplace manufactured by Majestic. I’ve tried another fireplace product which is supposed to fit at the top of the firebox to cover the flue. It did not fit properly because there are two metal “fins” that extend downward from the top of the firebox on either side of the flue. Does your product work with zero clearance fireplaces?
P.S. Was glad to read the question and answer about burning candles while the Chimney Balloon is in use. Thanks for the info!- TP
A: Dear TP, The Chimney Balloon does work with Zero Clearance fireplaces like the Majestic model you are referring to. As a matter of fact, I am using a 9×9 Chimney Balloon in a Majestic Zero clearance fireplace in my own living room.
Since the Chimney Balloon is installed up into the flue you can get it up past these fins and inflate it into place. I would recommend though that you use an HEK extender with your Chimney Balloon since the fins are so obtrusive in this model fireplace. Give us an email or a call if you have any more questions. – Jason
Followup: Just wanted to follow up to say that the 9×9 Chimney Balloon fit my zero clearance perfectly. This has made a major difference in the drafts attributable to our fireplace. Thanks for a terrific product!- TP
Reply: Hi TP, Thank you for checking back with us. I’m glad everything worked out so well for your application. It is a relatively simple fix with a Chimney Balloon. – Jason[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_empty_space][/vc_column][/vc_row]
