Wood Stoves, Fireplaces, and the Danger of Pyrolysis

Pyrolysis is the heating of organic material in the absence of oxygen. Not to confuse you all and not to get too scientific. Pyrolysis is when heat is very close to something like plastic, siding, etc. and it starts on fire. The heat may be from a chimney or other heat source.

Pyrolysis and Its Risks

Combustion can start when woodstoves and fireplaces do not have proper clearance. They need proper floor protection such as tile as well. There are explicit manufacturing requirements for chimney systems such as stovepipes. They must meet the requirements of the manufacturer and be up to code. If installation is completed without all the proper precautions a fire can occur.

An annual inspection of all your chimney installations is important for the safety of you and your family. Whether it is for a wood-burning stove or furnace, inspections are important.

Families are choosing to use alternate sources to heat their homes. The cost of fuel in our country has increased considerably over the past few years. A wood-burning stove is a popular source of secondary heat. Wood is abundant for fuel, and this can be an excellent cost-saving idea. However, it is important to have all installations inspected.

Damage Firebox or flue

The firebox and flue are built to withstand the heat from your fireplace and chimney. Damage from a crack can cause the heat from your fireplace and chimney to combust to areas around the fireplace. If there is deterioration to the chimney or fireplace this can also cause extreme heat to the area. Heat will escape the firebox or flue and over time combust and catch fire. The process of pyrolysis starts as the wood near the fire gets extremely hot and may catch fire. This can be catastrophic to your home with the threat of a house fire. 

Fireplace Safety

The safety of you and your family is always at the top of your list. Owning a fireplace can be a very enjoyable experience. However, it does come with responsibilities. Professionals recommend an annual chimney sweep as well as an inspection. This will give you peace of mind that you are doing the best for your family. Keeping up with chimney maintenance is essential to enjoying your time with your family and friends.

For peace of mind, get your chimney compliances inspected. Only a professional chimney company can assure you that you and your family are safe. Contact Chimney Solutions Indiana for an appointment for your annual chimney inspection.

Look no further than Chimney Solutions Indiana! Since our very first customer, we’ve been committed to delivering the highest level of customer care and the most professional and reliable chimney and fireplace services. Our technicians are expertly trained and certified by the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA), so there’s no aspect of chimney or fireplace service, installation, repair, or troubleshooting we can’t help you with.