Investigation of Creosoting and Fireplace Inserts. Final Report.
Investigation of Creosoting and Fireplace Inserts.
Final Report.
(5429 K)
Maxwell, T. T.; Dyer, D. F.; Maples, G.; Burch, T.
NBS GCR 81-365; 108 p. December 1981.
Sponsor:
National Bureau of Standards, Gaithersburg, MD
Dept. of Energy, Washington, DC
Consumer Product Safety Commission, Washington, DC
Available from:
National Technical Information Service
(NTIS), Technology Administration, U.S. Department of
Commerce, Springfield, VA 22161.
Telephone:
1-800-553-6847 or 703-605-6000;
Fax: 703-605-6900; Rush
Service (Telephone Orders Only) 800-553-6847;
Website:
http://www.ntis.gov
Order number: PB82-169145
Keywords:
chimneys; creosote; fire safety; flues; heating
euipment; stoves; temperature measurements; tars; wood
Abstract:
Estimates indicate that there are between 15 and 30
million fireplaces in existence in the United States.
The use of fireplace inserts could provide primary
heating sources for many of the homes in which they are
located. This report presents the results of a testing
program to quantify safety problems in the areas of
chimney creosoting, efficiency and thermal performance
of the inserts when used in masonry and factory-built
fireplaces. The most important factors affecting
creosote formation were found to be appliances type,
moisture content and wood type. However, significant
levels of creosote were formed with all fuels tested.
This indicates that there is no "safe" wood to burn
which will not produce creosote. Further, it emphasizes
the necessity of routine maintenance on the part of
homeowners who heat with wood.
