Chimney and Flue Systems - Information For The UK Consumer

	Class 1 Flue Fuel Types: Solid Fuel - Natural Gas -LPG - Electric Common in older houses earlier than 1960. The Class 1 Chimney is identifiable by the traditional chimney stack built from brick or stone and has a flue diameter of 7 inches(180cm) or greater. The existing chimney must be structurally sound. With this type of chimney all fire options are available.
	Class 2 Flue Fuel Types: Natural Gas - LPG - Electric This type of flue can be found on newer houses, or where an existing class 1 chimney has been relined with a proprietary steel flue liner. This flue is 5 inches (130cm) in diameter and is capped of with a steel flue terminal.
	Pre-Cast Flue Fuel Types: Natural Gas - LPG - Electric Modern Houses in the most later than 1960 will often have a precast concrete chimney system. This is identifiable by the rectangular box section flue and terminal on the ridge tiles, as illustrated in the picture.
	No Chimney Power Flue or Balanced Flue Required Fuel Types: Natural Gas - LPG - Electric Modern houses often have no chimney. You may either install an electric fire or opt for a balanced flue or powerflue system. The powerflue must be installed on an outside wall unless a side venting option is chosen.The powerflue has the look of a traditional gas fire. There must be an electric supply near to the fire. The balanced flue does not require electric but the flames are behind glass.

The heat source that you can have with your fireplace is dependent on the type of chimney that you have. The illustrations below show the types of chimney together with the heat sources that you can use.

How to get your chimney condition tested.
Anyone who is thinking of having a solid fuel fire or a gas fire installed in their home will have to have their chimney tested for leaks. Both gas fires and solid fuel fires give of poisonous carbondioxide gasses when they burn. In order for they poisonous gasses to escape your chimney will need to be clean and in a good state of repair.

In order to test your chimney you should employ a chimney sweep who is registered with the National Association of Chimney Sweeps. A NACS registered chimney sweep will not only clean your chimney but will advise you on the condition of it. Many NACS chimney sweeps carry sophisticated equipment like smoke generators and CCTV for chimney inspections, all are fully insured. By employing a NACS registered chimney sweep you are ensuring that you are getting the best independent advise from professional tradesmen.