Stoves, venting, and home systems explained
EPA-Certified Wood-Burning Stoves: How to Verify and Choose One
Verify an EPA-certified wood stove by its permanent label and database record, then check sizing, safety listing, chimney requirements and local rules.
By Gus Halloran · Sep 27, 2026Latest
EPA-Certified Wood Stoves: Verify the Label
Learn to check a wood stove’s permanent label, exact EPA database record, matching manual, installation requirements, and current incentive status.
Chimney Flashing Sealant: What to Use for Each Joint
Match chimney flashing sealant to masonry, metal, asphalt shingles or a storm collar, and see when failed flashing needs rebuilding instead of caulk.
Cost to Replace a Fireplace Insert: Budget by Fuel Type
Estimate fireplace insert replacement cost by fuel, venting, removal, utilities and chimney condition—and compare complete quotes accurately.
B Vent Pipe: Uses, Clearance, Slope and Roof Height
Check B vent pipe compatibility, 1-inch clearance, 1/4-inch-per-foot slope, roof height, routing and termination limits before work begins.
Concentric Vent Kit: How to Choose the Right System
Match a concentric vent kit by checking manual approval, system type, diameters, vent length, termination requirements and included parts.
Gas Fireplace Inspection: Scope, Timing, and Stop Signs
Learn what a gas fireplace inspection should cover, when to stop using the unit, and why dedicated appliance service goes beyond a home inspection.
More articles
Vent Cap: Identify the Vent Before Choosing a Replacement
Identify a vent cap by appliance, pipe system, size and termination type before replacing it. Learn what to inspect and when to stop using the appliance.
Chimney Cleaning Tools: Build the Right Kit for the Flue
Choose chimney cleaning tools by flue material, dimensions, deposits and access—and know when damage, glaze or roof risk makes DIY unsafe.
What Does a Blocked Vent Look Like?
See what blocked combustion, HVAC and dryer vents look like, which operating clues matter, and when to stop checking and call for urgent help.
Chimney Chase Cover: How to Measure and Specify One
Identify chase-cover damage and specify the metal, drainage, skirt and penetrations without violating the chimney system’s listing.
Chimney Damper: Types, Safe Operation and Common Problems
Learn how throat, top-sealing and stove dampers differ, when a damper must stay open, and what to check when it sticks, leaks or causes smoke.
Chimney Mortar Repair: Repoint or Call a Professional?
Identify exterior, firebox, flue or crown damage; choose compatible mortar; and know when chimney repointing is unsafe or insufficient.
High-Wind Chimney Cap: When It May Stop Downdraft
Gust-specific smoke makes outlet turbulence plausible, not certain. Compare cap designs, then verify the appliance, flue and chimney-system listing.
Skytech Fireplace Remote Not Working? Troubleshooting Steps
If your Skytech fireplace remote is not working and no gas odor is present, replace the batteries in both the handheld transmitter and receiver, record the…
Firebrick Fireplace: Choosing Brick, Size & Mortar
Identify the fireplace assembly first; then measure the existing brick, verify the required refractory standard and lining thickness, and use compatible mortar.
Planning an Outdoor Brick Fireplace
Compare site-built masonry with modular systems, verify codes and materials, and budget the foundation, freight, permits, labor and finishes.
Chimney Insert: How to Check Fireplace Compatibility
Use the worksheet to measure the opening, hearth and clearances, then verify chimney condition, model-specific venting and local approval.
How to Choose Firebrick for a Wood-Burning Stove
Use the stove label, current manual, and parts diagram to match the approved part number, material, dimensions, shape, quantity, and firebox position.