Chimney draft is a term defining the movement of exhaust gases or smoke directed from the bottom of the chimney upwards, towards the outlet. It is caused by differences in the density of the warm air inside the chimney and the cold air outside. The draft in the chimney depends on, among other things, building heating efficiency. How to improve the draft in the chimney and what is the purpose of a chimney fireman?
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Is it necessary to put a fire guard on the chimney?
A chimney firefighter is a specialized device that allows you to support the chimney draft. This special device is installed at the base of the chimney, which is why it is often called the end. It is usually made of galvanized sheet metal, which makes it solid, durable and resistant to various weather conditions and high temperatures.
A chimney fire guard installed to protect the chimney opening against precipitation, which helps eliminate the so-called reverse draft, i.e. the return of exhaust gases into the interior of the facility. Additionally, it protects the chimney opening against elements from entering the interior.
As a rule, a firefighter is not a mandatory element, the exception is Pomerania and the zone along the southern border of the country. These areas are particularly exposed to intense winds, hence the need to protect the chimney and install an appropriate cap. However, it is worth installing the device also in other regions, as it allows you to take care of the health of residents and ensure better draft. When the chimney is covered, neither rain nor snow can get inside, and it is moisture that significantly worsens the conditions.
When is it worth using a chimney fireman?
A chimney fire guard is one of the variants of cowls, thanks to which you can protect the chimney opening against unwanted elements from the outside, such as leaves, branches, and sometimes even birds. People whose houses are located near terrain obstacles, such as tall forests, mountains or single but tall trees or even blocks of flats, should especially decide to install firefighter-type devices. According to the laws of physics, after overcoming an obstacle, the wind weakens, the draft weakens, and air may be blown into the chimney and exhaust gases may be drawn back into the house.
The fireman on the chimney can be positioned depending on the direction of the wind to ensure maximum protection. A fireman's chimney cowl is a type of mechanical device, so it is important to ensure its proper operation through regular inspections.
How to improve draft in a chimney with a chimney cowl?
When observing too weak chimney draft, the cause must first be determined. Especially if there has been a marked deterioration. Only then can you look for ways to improve the situation. The basis is regular cleaning of the chimney system and periodic chimney inspections. The specialist assesses both the patency of the chimney and its technical condition, including the tightness of the chimney flues.
One option to improve draft is to install a fireman's chimney cap. It is very important to choose the right variant because the covers are produced in different sizes. The basic parameter is the diameter. Good quality models are made of acid-resistant steel. The device is installed in gravity installations. When the wind blows over the cap, it faces the direction from which the wind is blowing. This mechanism allows you to cover the inside of the chimney flue. When preparing appropriate device models, manufacturers indicate for which heating variants they are adapted. It is very important to choose a fireman type cover dedicated to the type of heating fuel used in the selected facility.
For the attachment to function properly, it should always be functional. Therefore, it is necessary to perform proper maintenance and ensure that all mechanisms work properly. The most important thing is that the cover can rotate freely, depending on the wind direction, because only then will it allow for optimal chimney draft, ensuring the highest level of safety.