A fireplace can be a wonderful addition to the living space, and not just because it spreads pleasant warmth. It is also visually decorative - but potentially dangerous.
Chimneys
Modern models can be installed in almost any room and spread a cozy flair. On cold winter days, they provide warmth and a pleasant light. However, the suitability for the respective room depends on various factors.
- Type of operation
- Need for exhaust ventilation
- Heat development
Not every fireplace needs a hood, which means that it can also be installed in a rented apartment without a chimney. For example, ethanol and electric models are suitable for this.
When firing with wood, briquettes or coal, however, the smoke must be able to escape. This is only possible if there is a chimney nearby.
Tip: It is best to ask a chimney sweep who can give you comprehensive advice on the situation on site. This can also be suitable individual
Make recommendations about the type of fireplace.walls
In the case of walls, the distance to the stove depends on whether they are flammable or not. If there is no risk of fire, 20 centimeters are sufficient. The situation is different with combustible wall design.
These include:
- pictures
- Wood paneling
- Plastics
- Wallpaper
- textiles
Caution must also be exercised with decorations such as a wall tattoo or picture frame. If these are available, at least 70 centimeters are necessary between the walls and the stove.
Cover
Most wood-burning stoves on the market are kept compact, so that there is usually no risk for ceilings. Roof slopes are an exception. The space between the chimney and the sloping ceiling can be insufficient here. In the worst case, this creates a risk of fire. Even if it doesn't, discoloration can occur. This is also true
for:- Plaster
- Disguises
- Wall paint
For this reason, you should make sure that there is at least one meter between the stove and the ceiling.
furniture
While furniture made of metal, such as filing cabinets, can withstand heat comparatively well, plastic, wood, glass and upholstery are significantly more sensitive. Therefore the necessary distances also vary. For this reason, you should observe 80 to 100 centimeters to ensure adequate safety. Otherwise, expect the following problems:
- Splinter
- Fire hazard
- Color changes
- Burst
- brittle places
- shortened service life
- Warping
Note: In the case of elements made of plastic, melting or a change in shape can also occur. Handles or inserts are therefore exposed to an increased risk.
Sockets and cables
Sufficient space must also be left around electrical appliances and the socket on the wall so that the heat from the fireplace is not impaired. For ovens with appropriate insulation, 20 to 40 centimeters are usually sufficient.
If there is no insulation, 80 to 100 centimeters should again be adhered to. This not only applies to the socket itself, but also and above all to the cables that lead away from it.
window
The distance to windows is generally 80 centimeters. This is to ensure that the glass is not damaged by the heat
takes and tears or even bursts. This can especially be the case with double windows when one pane of glass heats up significantly more than the other and this creates tension.In addition, there are often flammable objects on windows. For example:
- Curtains
- rolls
- curtains
These are also a reason why a greater distance must be maintained. On the other hand, if the window is too close, the running costs for the fireplace can increase as the heat is lost more quickly.
Home textiles and Co.
Textile surfaces are often found in large numbers in the rooms in which chimneys are also set up. These include:
- Decorations
- pillow
- Toys like plush toys
- Carpets and rugs
- Dried flowers
- curtains
- Rugs
Curtains and drapes in particular can be a problem if the fireplace is near a window or balcony door. Because they can get into dangerous proximity to the furnace with just slight movements. Therefore, make sure that there are as large a distance as possible and that direct contact is not possible.
Note: Also take into account possible flying sparks. This means that even objects that are further away can be set on fire. Therefore, only open the door if it is safe and you will be in the room for a long time afterwards. A spot that smoldered unnoticed at first cannot develop into a fire.
