Pre-Cast Flue Problem

modsandmockers

westv wrote: »

They are underneath ridge tiles but slightly sticking up - if you see what I mean.

In no particular order, I would suggest doing two things -

1. See if you can disconnect the metal tubing in the roof space from the top of both pre-cast flues. And then try the smoke test from each ground floor installation in turn. That might help you to determine whether or not there is a problem with either pre-cast flue. If either flue appears to be blocked, then see if you can shine a torch down it so that you can have a look. If all is well with the pre-cast flues, then try the same test with the metal bits.

2. The metal flue in the roof space is probably not sealed to the vented ridge tile, so if, for example, birds have nested in the ridge, then the gases from the flue may be venting into the roof space. If the two unsealed outlets are close together, then the gases from your neighbour's flue may drawn across to your outlet.

westv

I just had another check of the metal part of the flue. In the loft it exists the wall about half way up and, as mentioned, it doesn't seem to be sealed to the ridge tile. My ridge tile area appears clear. As far as I can see there is no gap in the loft wall between my house and next door.
I guess I'll need to get another gas fitter to look though as, unless one agrees it's ok, I'll never be able to legally get the gas fire reconnected.

modsandmockers

It’s not beyond the realms of possibility that the metal flue sections in the roof spaces were ‘crossed’ at the time of installation and you and your neighbour’s houses have been using each other’s flue outlets ever since - it would have no adverse effect on the operation of the two installations, sfaik. That’s why I think it’s worth conducting a few smoke tests yourself, hopefully with your neighbour’s co-operation and preferably with an observer in each roof space. An even less likely scenario is that, on the day of the gas fitter’s visit, the wind and/or the light were playing tricks on everybody! A repeat smoke test would quickly rule that one out.

Even if your neighbour’s flue has somehow got damaged or obstructed, it is hard to imagine how the gases would so easily find their way into an adjacent but completely self-contained flue. The usual result would be for the smoke to back up into the living room.

westv

Just our luck though that the neighbour hasn't had their fire serviced for 10 years or so and then decides to get it done a few months after we move in.

unclebulgaria

I know this thread is a couple of months old but please, anyone reading modsand mockers advice, DONT do what he's suggesting! He doesn't know what he's talking about and it's down right dangerous! I suggest m&r's keeps his advice to something he knows something about!!

modsandmockers

unclebulgaria wrote: »

I know this thread is a couple of months old but please, anyone reading modsand mockers advice, DONT do what he's suggesting! He doesn't know what he's talking about and it's down right dangerous! I suggest m&r's keeps his advice to something he knows something about!!

As it happens, I have quite a lot of experience with smoke pellets - the greatest danger is that you will fill your room or roof space with a clean, odourless smoke.

unclebulgaria

modsandmockers wrote: »

As it happens, I have quite a lot of experience with smoke pellets - the greatest danger is that you will fill your room or roof space with a clean, odourless smoke.

As it happens I was right first time!