Fireplaces and Chimneys — John Stuart Mill — John Shaqi
Fireplaces and Chimneys
John Stuart Mill · en
The ratings given are based on comparatively smooth lined flues with no
offsets greater than 30° with the vertical.
The smallest sizes of fuels require excessive drafts and may necessitate
taller chimneys.
Flue heights and sizes are based upon approximately the several altitudes
indicated; it is sufficiently accurate to use the column giving the
altitude nearest to that of the particular problem.
When 2 or 3 appliances are connected to the same flue their total grate
area may be reduced 15 percent. The method of determining the proper flue
size for an altitude of 2,000 feet, when 1 appliance with a grate area of
3 square feet and another with an area of 1.5 square feet are attached to
the same flue, is shown by the following example:
Add the 2 grate areas, 3 + 1.5 = 4.5 square feet. Reduce this total
area by 15 percent. Thus, 4.5 - 0.68 = 3.8 square feet is the required
area. Use the nearest whole number, 4. From the table it is seen that
for a grate area of 4 square feet at an elevation of 2,000 feet either
a 12-inch (inside diameter) round flue or a 13- by 13-inch (outside
dimensions) rectangular flue 37 feet high is required.
[Illustration: Figure 3.--This tall chimney produced good draft for
the kitchen range, but the flue was too small for a furnace. When the
house was remodeled, its appearance was greatly improved by building the
chimney inside.]
[Illustration: Figure 4.--Short chimneys are frequently provided for low
bungalows, for architectural reasons. This flue is ample in size but not
high enough for use with a stove. The stone masonry has been laid to
harmonize with the rustic surroundings.]
Frequently metal-pipe extensions are provided to increase the height of a
flue on account of the low cost and ease of installation, but these must
be securely anchored against wind and have the same area as the flue.
Metal extensions are likely to rust in a short time. They are available
with a metal cowl or top that turns with the wind to prevent air blowing
down the flue. Terra-cotta chimney pots or extensions are more durable
and attractive.
A chimney located entirely inside a building has better draft because the
masonry retains heat longer when protected from cold outside air.
[Illustration: Figure 5.--Two pleasingly designed fireplace chimneys that
fit into their surroundings. _A_, This chimney stands in the clear and
should provide a good draft; _B_, a chimney under overhanging trees is
likely to backdraft. Contrast the appearance of these two chimneys with
that of figure 3.]
[Illustration: Figure 6.--Several extensions were necessary before this
chimney would draw properly on account of the wind deflected from the
nearby wall.]
[Illustration: Figure 7.--_A_, A good foundation extending below the soil
affected by frost. This chimney is well protected from ground moisture
by the concrete carried above the surface; _B_, an insecure foundation.
Supporting a chimney in this manner is a dangerous practice.]
CONSTRUCTION