The Importance of Chimney Liners For Oil Furnaces & Boilers

5 Reasons Why Chimney Liners are Important for Oil Appliances

Chimney liners play a critical role in the safe and efficient operation of oil furnaces and boilers. They are an essential component of the chimney system that ensures proper venting of combustion gases and protects the structure of the chimney and the home. Here are 5 reasons why chimney liners are important for oil appliances.

1) Safety

Get adequate protection from toxic gases. Oil-burning appliances such as furnaces and boilers generate carbon monoxide (CO), a colorless, odorless gas that can be extremely dangerous if not properly managed. A correctly sized and professionally installed chimney liner plays a crucial role in safely venting these combustion gases out of the home, preventing their buildup indoors. Without a liner—or if the liner is damaged—there is a significant risk that carbon monoxide and other harmful gases could leak into the walls or living spaces, posing serious health hazards to occupants.

2) Protection of the Chimney Structure

The combustion of oil produces acidic byproducts, such as sulfur dioxide, which can combine with moisture to form highly corrosive sulfuric acid. Over time, this acid can deteriorate the mortar joints and brickwork within an unprotected chimney, leading to structural damage and costly repairs. A properly installed chimney liner serves as a protective barrier, shielding the chimney walls from these corrosive compounds and significantly extending the lifespan of the chimney system.

3) Proper Draft & Efficiency

Chimney liners are typically sized to match the output of the furnace or boiler. So, an improperly sized flue can lead to various issues. This improper sizing can be for flues that are either too big or too small. The issues that may arise include poor draft, incomplete combustion, reduced efficiency and increased soot and creosote buildup. However, a correctly sized liner will improve the combustion efficiency, which reduces fuel consumption and overall emissions.

3) Prevention of Chimney Deterioration and Blockages

Over time, unlined chimneys are prone to developing cracks and accumulating debris or soot, which can obstruct the flue and compromise the safe operation of the heating system. Chimney liners help prevent these buildups by maintaining a smooth, protected passage for exhaust gases, thereby reducing the risk of chimney fires caused by soot or unburned fuel residue. In many older homes, masonry chimneys were constructed without liners, making them particularly vulnerable to fire hazards and carbon monoxide infiltration, and highlighting the importance of proper chimney lining for safety and code compliance.

5) Building Codes and Insurance Requirements

Most modern building codes require the installation of chimney liners, particularly when new oil-fired appliances are being added to a home. In addition to meeting regulatory standards, a properly lined chimney is often a requirement for insurance coverage, especially in cases involving fire or carbon monoxide-related claims. Therefore, if you are upgrading your heating system, a professional chimney inspection and the installation of an appropriate liner may be necessary to ensure both compliance and continued insurance protection.

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If you have an oil-fired furnace or boiler, a properly installed and sized stainless steel chimney liner is crucial for the following reasons:

Safe operation
Efficient performance
Compliance with regulations

It’s highly recommended to have your chimney inspected annually and relined if needed, especially when replacing an older oil appliance with a newer, high-efficiency model. If you are looking for a chimney liner company in Boston, please contact us today.

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When you reach out, we can provide you with the various options available at your disposal. There are some common types of chimney liners typically used for oil appliances. The most commonly used type of liner with oil furnaces and boilers are stainless steel. These liners are durable, corrosion-resistant, and can be insulated to improve performance. Aluminum liners are recommended for oil appliances due to their poor resistance to corrosive byproducts. And the same goes for clay tile liners, which are found in older chimneys, but are not great for oil-burning appliances due to poor resistance to moisture and acidic condensate.