Replies

1. 
   Piffin | Nov 06, 2007 06:41pm | #1

   I have seen chimneys that service oil burners 50 years old that have never been cleaned and don't look bad at all.
   believe it or not, newer high efficiency burners can cause faster deterioration of a chimney.

   The soot build up is not all that bad when you have thne burner cleaned every year, but there can be more sulphuric acid because a burner that does not run as much will have a colder flue and more condensate build. Many modern burners require that the chimny be relined smaller diameter both to protect the older flue from acids, and to facilitate exhaust of the condensates faster. For instance a burner needing a 6" flue that dumps into an older 8" square will see the exhaust drift out the top 30% to 50% slower, which gives more time for the condensates to form. The sulphur in them combines with the water and formns the acid which eats up mortar joints

   BTW - is your chimney SS, Galv, or Masonry?

    

    

   Welcome to the
   Taunton University of Knowledge FHB Campus at Breaktime.
    where ...
   Excellence is its own reward!

1. 
   JasonG | Nov 06, 2007 09:29pm | #2

   The current furnace has been in place since 1994, which replaced a furnace installed in 1951. The existing chimney is brick with "clay" flue liner. I am assuming it is as old as the house (1930).Jason

1. 
   Piffin | Nov 06, 2007 10:07pm | #3

   probably due by now then, dontcha think?;) 

    

   Welcome to the Taunton University of Knowledge FHB Campus at Breaktime. where ... Excellence is its own reward!

1. 
   JasonG | Nov 07, 2007 12:05am | #4

   Thanks, I will have someone check it out. - Jason