Solid fuel (wood) burner (closed firebox) – corroded flue

Causes

Corrosive gases from the combustion process such as burning driftwood or treated timber

Listed under: heating, solid fuel burners, Services, chimneys and flues and fireplaces

Cause

Corrosive gases from the combustion process such as burning driftwood or treated timber

Repair

  • call an experienced installer to replace the flue. You can find a list of installers on the website of the New Zealand Home Heating Association

  • the new flue installation must comply with the standard AS/NZS 2918:2018 Domestic solid fuel burning appliances – Installation regarding flue clearance requirements etc.

  • if you have just moved into a property where an existing woodburner has a corroded flue, engage an experienced installer to check the condition of the firebox as well as the flue

  • avoid burning salt-laden wood (such as driftwood), treated timber (particularly wood treated with a copper-based preservative such as CCA, copper azole or copper quaternary) or painted timber. Burn only dry, clean firewood

  • most woodburners are designed to run with a hot, efficient fire. Continually operating a low-level smouldering fire can contribute to flue problems

  • have the flue cleaned out at least once a year. Poorly maintained and dirty flues are a cause of house fires each year

  • note that if a solid fuel burner is operated in a dangerous condition, house insurance may not cover any resulting damage

  • you can find more details in the BRANZ bulletin BU654 Installation and maintenance of solid fuel appliances

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