Can I use flex duct pipe on a wood stove blower output?

Question

I have a wood furnace with two "8" inch outputs on top. I can't find any "12" inch lines for a increase air flow to my gas furnace trunks but I know where to get some "12" inch insulated duct hose that will work. I'm putting safety first seeing I have children. Will these be safe to use with the wood furnace or will the furnace generate too much heat for the flex pipe? I cut small pieces off inside and out and did an experiment and checked to see if it would catch fire with a lighter and it wouldn't light at all, it just melted and did nothing at all. Thanks,,,

Answer 1

Don't do it!!!

Insulated flex pipe is not safe to use on a wood stove. Your test proved that the insulation would melt, releasing all kinds of toxic fumes (sic), melting insulation should have proven that your flex pipe is the wrong stuff to use. A cigarette lighter, and similar devices, will not generate the BTUs of a stove.

If your local stove/fireplace/hardware store can't find a solution, try using exhaust tubing from a truck (heavy duty) parts supplier.

Answer 2

No its not safe. You are going to have to use metal. Check with a heating specialice shop and they can make what you need.

Answer 3

The vent must have a fire rating and be designed for this purpose, and it can not touch anything that could start to burn. Call a PRO and sleep well at night!

Answer 4

I wouldn't.  It would probably build up residue way to quickly and then catch fire or get blocked up and let the fumes into the house which is just as deadly.