FLEXI-LINER ALK-AFCL Aluminum Flexible Chimney Liner Instruction Manual

FLEXI-LINER ALK-AFCL Aluminum Flexible Chimney Liner

Product Information

Specifications

• Product Model : ALK/AFCL
• Product Type : Aluminum Flexible Chimney Liner and Gas Vent Connector
• Compatible Appliance Types : Not intended for solid or liquid fuel-burning appliances
• Installation Location : Masonry Chimneys

Installation Instructions

1. Ensure you have chosen the correct connector size based on the appliance manufacturer’s instructions.
2. Refer to the CAN/CSA-B149.100 in Canada or the National Fuel Gas Code NFPA-54 in the USA for vent size recommendations.
3. All flexible metallic chimney liners should be sized using Type B Gas Vent sizing tables, with maximum capacities reduced by 20%.
4. Consult the appliance manufacturer’s installation instructions for the maximum venting run allowed.
5. Follow the provided instruction book for flexible chimney liners to determine the appropriate sizing information.
6. Install the Flexi-Liner and any Type B Gas Vent in any combination desired to complete the system.
7. Ensure a minimum airspace clearance of 1 inch (25mm) to combustibles when using the liner as a vent connector.
8. Do not enclose any exposed portion of the Flexi-Liner or pass it through combustible areas or materials such as walls, ceilings, floors, roofs, attics, crawl spaces, or joist areas as it is not listed as Type B Gas Vent.

Tools and Materials

The following tools and materials are required for installation:

• Flexible Liner Kit (15′, 25′, or 35′)
• Additional components as specified in the instruction book

FAQ

• Q: Can I use this aluminum liner with solid or liquid fuel-burning appliances?
  • A : No, this aluminum liner is not intended for use with solid or liquid fuel-burning appliances.
• Q: Can I enclose the exposed portion of the Flexi-Liner or pass it through combustible areas?
  • A : No, the Flexi-Liner should not be enclosed or pass through any combustible areas or materials as it is not listed as Type B Gas Vent.
• Q: What clearances should I maintain when using the liner as a vent connector?
  • A : Ensure a minimum airspace clearance of 1 inch (25mm) to combustibles when using the liner as a vent connector.
• Q: Where can I find sizing information for flexible chimney liners?
  • A : Refer to the sizing information provided in the instruction book for flexible chimney liners.
• Q: What should I do if I have further questions or issues during installation?
  • A : Please refer to the instruction book for detailed installation guidelines. If you still have questions or encounter issues, contact our customer support for assistance.

Aluminum Flexible Chimney Liner and Gas Vent Connector

PLEASE READ AND UNDERSTAND THE REQUIREMENTS BEFORE PROCEEDING

For Installation into Masonry Chimneys

READ INSTRUCTIONS CAREFULLY BEFORE STARTING THE PROJECT. REMEMBER THAT SAFETY COMES FIRST. OUR FLEXI-LINER® SYSTEM IS DESIGNED FOR INSTALLATION BY A QUALIFIED PERSON IN ACCORDANCE WITH LOCAL BUILDING CODES.

Types of Appliance

Flexi-Liner® is designed for use in existing masonry or listed factory-built chimneys and vents as a chimney liner for Category 1 listed gas-fired appliances equipped with draft hoods and other gas appliances listed for use with Type B Gas Vent that burn natural gas or propane, under neutral or negative draft.

CAUTION : THIS ALUMINUM LINER IS NOT INTENDED FOR SOLID OR LIQUID FUEL- BURNING APPLIANCES!

Sizes, Location & Clearances

Ensure your installation will conform with all federal and municipal building code requirements. Before commencing installation, CONTACT LOCAL GAS UTILITY OR LOCAL BUILDING OR FIRE OFFICIALS ABOUT
RESTRICTIONS AND INSTALLATION IN YOUR AREA.
Obtain any necessary building permits. Authorities require that the masonry chimney extend not less than three feet above the highest point where it passes through the roof of a building and not less than two feet above any portion of the building within ten feet. (See Figure 1.)

WARNING

Failure to follow these Installation Instructions could cause FIRE, CARBON MONOXIDE POISONING, OR DEATH. If you are unsure of Installation requirements, call the Phone Number listed on the back of these instructions.

Close attention should be given to determine the correct connector size.

Be sure to choose a size of liner that is not less than that specified in the appliance manufacturer’s instructions. Vent size recommendations are detailed in the CAN/CSA-B149.100 in Canada or the National Fuel  Gas Code NFPA-54 in theUSA. As per the above Fuel Gas Codes, all flexible metallic chimney liners are to be sized using Type B Gas Vent sizing tables, with maximum capacities reduced by 20%. We have included sizing information in the back of this instruction book for flexible chimney liners. Consult the appliance manufacturer’s installation instructions regarding the maximum venting run allowed.

IMPORTANT : FLEXI-LINER HAS BEEN TESTED AND LISTED, USING ALL THE SUPPORTS, SECTIONS, ETC., DESCRIBED HEREIN. DELETION OR MODIFICATION OF ANY OF THE REQUIRED PARTS OR MATERIALS MAY SERIOUSLY IMPAIR THE SAFETY OF YOUR INSTALLATION AND VOID THE CONDITIONS OF CERTIFICATION AND/OR WARRANTY OF YOUR LINER.

IT IS OF THE UTMOST IMPORTANCE THAT THIS CHIMNEY LINER BE INSTALLED ONLY IN ACCORDANCE WITH THESE INSTRUCTIONS. PLEASE READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE BEGINNING YOUR INSTALLATION. FAILURE TO INSTALL THIS SYSTEM IN ACCORDANCE WITH THESE INSTRUCTIONS WILL VOID THE CONDITIONS OF CERTIFICATION AND THE MANUFACTURER’S WARRANTY. KEEP THESE INSTRUCTIONS IN A SAFE PLACE FOR FUTURE USE.

Aluminum Flexible Chimney Liner and Gas Vent Connector

Your liner has been listed for installation at zero clearance to the inside masonry surface of an existing masonry or factory-built chimney and with zero clearance between the outside surface of the masonry chimney and surrounding combustibles.
Do not fill the airspace between the liner and chimney with loose fill insulation or cement.
The Flexi-Liner and any Type B Gas Vent may be used in any combination desired to complete the system.

When used as a Vent Connector, install with 1″ (25mm) minimum airspace clearance to combustibles.
At no time should an exposed portion of the Flexi-Liner be enclosed or pass through any combustible area or materials, such as walls, ceilings, floors, roofs, attics, crawl spaces or joist areas, as this product is not listed as Type B Gas Vent.

Use Type B Gas Vent or Flexi-Sleeve (sold separately) to minimize condensation and down-drafting, particularly if:

• a ) The flue gas temperature is below 280°F at the entry point into the liner.
• b ) Flexible Liner is to be installed in an exterior or oversized chimney. An exterior chimney has one or more sides exposed to the outdoors.
• c ) The liner system is venting only fan-assisted appliances.
• d ) The masonry chimney contains solid or liquid fuel\ residue from prior heating appliances.
• e ) The appliance is equipped with a vent damper.

Liner Components
The following parts are available for liner installation.

• 15′ Flexible Liner Kit (3″ to 5″ only)
• 25′ Flexible Chimney Liner Kit
• 35′ Flexible Chimney Liner Kit

Kits include applicable length of Flexible Liner, Support/Flashing assembly, Round Top, Mortar Guard, screws and Installation Instructions.
Note : The 5.5″ flex kit also includes a 5.5″ to 6″ Flexible Connector.
The following additional parts are available.

• Guide Cone (pull-down)
• 10′ Extension Kit
• Flexible Connector
• B-Vent Adapter
• Flexible Sleeve Insulation

Tools and Materials
The following tools and materials are needed.

• Safety gloves
• Eye protection
• Ladder or scaffolding to reach the roof
• Masonry drill bit ½” or 3/8″
• High-speed drill bit 3/8″
• Drill
• Hacksaw
• Screwdriver
• Hammer
• Pliers
• Cold chisel
• Tin snips
• Caulking, exterior grade
• Small bag of mortar mix
• Trowel
• Mortar pan
• Piece of rope 10 feet longer than the chimney
• CAUTION : Always wear gloves and eye protection during installation to avoid personal injury.

Chimney Inspection and Cleaning
Make sure the masonry chimney is sound in construction, clean, and free from all loose and potentially flammable debris. If you find any cracked, loose, or missing bricks or tiles, have them repaired or replaced.

Before the installation of the liner, it is recommended that the chimney be cleaned by a certified chimney sweep.
Since chimneys are usually very sooty and dusty, it is advisable to remove or cover your furniture, rugs, etc., for the duration of the cleaning and installation of the liner.

Chimney Preparation
PREPARING FOR A STAND-ALONE APPLIANCE INSTALLATION
If no opening currently exists, determine the location of the point where the vent system will penetrate the masonry wall, and prepare an opening through the masonry and any existing clay liner (with a masonry drill bit, cold chisel and hammer) large enough to accommodate the Mortar Guard, allowing for the Flexible Liner to exit the chimney opening. The opening must be located above the appliance outlet as high as possible to maximize connector rise yet maintain the proper clearances(see Figure 2a). It is recommended to install an inspection/ clean-out door on the opposite side if conditions permit.

Aluminum Flexible Chimney Liner and Gas Vent Connector

PREPARING FOR AN INSERT

Before installing the venting system, ensure that the damper plate is locked into the open position and secured or removed to prevent any damage to the liner (see Figure 2b).
Note : Due to possible snagging, which may result in some surface damage, caution must be observed when lowering Liner lengths into the masonry flue.

PREPARING TOP OF CHIMNEY
Your chimney may have a clay tile liner that protrudes above the brick chimney. There is no need to remove the top portion of the clay tile liner if it is in good condition. You may want, at this time, to do any repairs to the chimney crown if any cracks or deterioration are showing. Once the repairs are done, follow the Flashing/Support Installation – Masonry Chimney section on page 5.

If, on the other hand, the clay tile liner is not in good condition, you will need to make it flush by chipping away at the excess with a hammer, and cold chisel (see Figure 3). Make sure that pieces of the clay tile liner don’t fall into the flue. When you have finished making the top of the chimney flush, fill in any cracks and uneven surfaces with mortar.

Liner Preparation

DETERMINING LINER LENGTH

Determine the required length of the liner by measuring the distance from the prepared opening to the top of the chimney, allowing for a 90-degree bend at the inlet. If the flexible liner will extend directly to the appliance, add the distance from the appliance exhaust collar to the prepared opening in the chimney flue, allowing for any required bends. Multiple lengths may be joined, using the Flexible Connector (see Figure 4).

TRIMMING THE LINER

Select the length(s) necessary to accommodate the required distance determined above. Stretch the Flexible Liner to the desired length (requires 2 people) by placing both hands around the circumference of the ends of the liner and gently pulling. If any Flexible Liner requires cutting, use a sharp fine- toothed hacksaw.
CAUTION : Do not attach the Flexible Connector and use it to stretch the liner. This may result in damage to the Flexible Liner.

GUIDE CONE (PULL-DOWN ASSEMBLY)

A Guide Cone (Pull-Down) is available as an optional installation aide. When attached to a rope, it is used to  pull and guide the end of the Flexible Liner through thechimney. With one end of the rope, simply tie a knot around the band of the Guide Cone. Attach the Guide Cone to the flex by sliding it over the Flexible Liner and inserting screws through the prepunched holes (see Figure 5). Once the Flexible Liner has been lowered in its final position, remove the Guide Cone.

Installing the Liner
STAND-ALONE APPLIANCE
Gather all necessary component parts and locate them near the termination of the chimney. This should consist of a Support/Flashing assembly, a Round Top, and the prepared length of Flexible Liner complete with Guide Cone and rope. Feed the Guide Cone and rope down the chimney flue (see Figure 6). While an assistant gently  pulls on the rope from below, start lowering the Flexible Liner down into the chimney flue. If additional lengths of flex are required, join the sections together as the Flexible Liner progresses down the chimney.

Note : Due to possible snagging, which may result in some surface damage, caution must be observed when lowering Liner lengths into the masonry flue. After feeding the liner down the chimney to the bottom, form a 90-degree bend and bring the Flexible Liner through the prepared opening of the chimney wall (see Figure 6).

For the liner to extend directly to the appliance, continue to pull through the required amount of liner to allow a proper connection to the appliance exhaust collar. Any portion of liner used as a connector in a nearly horizontal orientation should include a minimum slope of ¼” per foot upward from the appliance toward the chimney.

GAS FIREPLACE INSERT

Follow the Liner Preparation – Guide Cone (Pull-Down  Assembly section on page 4. Feed the liner down the chimney until it exits through the masonry fireplace  opening (see Figure 7). Most gas fireplace inserts are equipped with a removable draft hood for easy flex to insert connection. Check the insert manufacturer’s instructions for correct connection. Remove the Guide Cone from the Flexible Liner.

Attach the Flexible Liner over the collar of the gas fireplace insert (check the appliance manufacturer’s instructions for proper attachment). Once the insert is in its proper place, pull the excess Flexible Liner from the top of the chimney.

Flashing/Support Installation – Masonry Chimney
Position the Flashing and center the flat plate on top of the clay tile. Mark the outline of the clay tile on the underside of the flashing plate. There should be a minimum of 2″ (50mm) of overhang on each side of the clay tile. Cut off each corner at 45° (see Figure 8), and bend over the excess at the marked line, using a pair ofhand folders.

Installation Instructions

Round Top Installation – Masonry

Pull enough of the Flexible Liner through the Flashing/ Support assembly to be able to slide the Round Top into the Flexible Liner (see Figures 9 and 10).

Slide the Round Top and Liner back through the Flashing/Support assembly until the skirt of the Round Top comes in contact with the collar of the Flashing/ Support assembly. Install the four (4) ¾” sheet metal screws (provided) through the prepunched holes in the Flashing collar (see Figure 9).
Note : For 5.5″ Flex, the Round Top installs to the outside of Flex, and must be fastened with screws.

Place a wide bead of high-temperature silicone along the entire top surface of the clay tile. Slide the Flex and Flashing assembly back into the chimney opening until the flashing plate comes to rest on the clay tile. Press theflashing firmly into the silicone to create a good seal (see Figure 10).

Round Top Installation – Existing Factory-Built Chimney
One method is offered for the installation of a Flexi-Liner in an existing factory-built chimney.

Flexible Liner Kit with Liner Round Top

1. Remove the existing chimney top and discard.

2. Center the Flashing/Support on the factory-built
   chimney. Mark the outline of the factory-built chimney on the underside of the Flashing/Support plate (see Figure 11a). The flashing is then trimmed flush with the outline, and secured in place from the top with sheet metal screws once it is silicone in place, as per step 6.

3. As an alternative to step 2, to have an overhang, the flashing/support is trimmed approximately 2″ larger in diameter than the marked outline (see Figure 11b). It is then slit and folded to fit down over the chimney.
   The screws are installed from the side once it is silicone in place, as per step 6.

4. Lower the flexible liner down through the factory-built chimney to the desired position.

5. Place a wide bead of high-temperature silicone along the entire top surface of the factory-built chimney.

6. Place the trimmed Flashing/Support over the Flexible Liner. Lower the Flashing/Support so that the plate comes to rest on the factory-built chimney. Press the plate firmly into the silicone to create a good seal, and secure it into place with #8 x 3/8″ stainless sheet metal screws, as per Figure 11b or 12.

7. Slide the Liner Round Top and the Flexible Liner back through the Flashing/Support assembly until the skirt of the Round Top comes in contact with the collar of the Flashing/Support. Install the four (4) sheet metal screws (provided), using the pre-punched holes in the flashing collar and through the flex and Round Top. Apply silicone sealant to any exposed lances, holes, or screws.

Mortar Guard Installation
Back at the appliance, if you have not done so previously, slide the Mortar Guard over the end of the Flexible Liner protruding from the prepared opening. Position the Mortar Guard within the prepared opening, such that it will provide a protective barrier between the Liner and any required filler material. Refer to the Installation Completion section on page 8. Ensure that the end of the mortar Guard, with the Listing Label attached, extends into the room a minimum of 2″ so that the label is visible for inspection.

Appliance Connection
The final connection of the flexible liner to the appliance may be made in a number of ways and will depend on specific conditions.

TYPE B VENT CONNECTOR

If a Type B Vent is recommended as a connector (if clearances to combustibles or sizing guidelines suggest), the Flexible Liner should extend at least 2″ (50mm) beyond the Mortar Guard.

FLEXIBLE LINER B-VENT ADAPTER

The Flexi-Liner universal B-Vent adapter connects Flexible Liner pipe to all brands of Type B Gas Vent pipe. To install:

1. Prior to installation, a Mortar Guard should be installed within the prepared opening, such that it will provide a protective barrier between the liner and any required filler material. Ensure that the end of the Mortar Guard, with the listing label attached, extends into the room minimum of 2″ so that the label is visible for inspection (refer to main instructions for additional details).
2. The Flexible Liner should be installed such that it  extends at least 2″ beyond the Mortar Guard, allowingsufficient length for attaching the universal B Vent adapter to the flex (see Figures 14 and 15).
3. Engage the outlet end of the universal B Vent adapter with the flex pipe. Once fully engaged, secure the flex to the adapter using four (4) self-tapping sheet metal screws. Install the screws so that they penetrate through the flexible liner and the inner liner of the adapter (see Figure 16).
4. Engage the type B vent pipe with the universal B vent adapter. Once fully engaged, tighten the machine screw so that the adapter clamps down and secures the B vent pipe in place (see Figure 17).
5. Refer to main instructions to complete installation.

SINGLE-WALL VENT CONNECTOR PIPE

Trim the Flexible Liner flush with the Mortar Guard. Insert the end of a single-wall vent connector pipe (by others) into the Flexible Liner. Secure into place with four (4) evenly spaced screws through the Mortar Guard and into the Flexible Liner and the vent connector (see Figure 18).  Note: The 5.5″-6″ Flexible Connector is required when connecting 6″ single-wall pipe to the 5.5″ flexible liner.

Note : The 5.5″-6″ Flexible Connector is required when connecting 6″ single-wall pipe to the 5.5″ flexible liner.

When used as a single-wall vent connector, and if it is acceptable, the Flexible Liner system may be extended all the way to the appliances and installed with 1″ (25mm) airspace clearance to combustibles. Remember to include a minimum of ¼” per foot rise in any horizontal sections (from the appliance to the chimney) and keep turns to a minimum (see Figure 18).

Installation Completion
After the appliance is correctly positioned and all the venting connections are completed and checked for proper installation (clearances to combustibles, proper support and component parts), fill the void area aroundthe penetration hole with mortar. High-temperature ceramic sealant or other noncombustible filler material may be used as a substitute instead of mortar.

Final Inspection

Ensure all gas piping, electrical, and vent connections are complete and up to code requirements. After adjusting the appliance and lighting the main burner, allow a couple of minutes for warm-up. Check the vent operation by holding a lighted match or smoking material just under the rim of the draft hood relief opening. Proper venting will draw the flame or smoke into the draft hood. Improper venting, indicated by escape or spillage of burned gas, will cause smoke to move away from the draft hood and a flame to flicker or go out.

Liner Maintenance

The Flexible Liner should be inspected by a qualified heating or chimney technician before each heating season to ensure it is free of debris and condensation and that all components are in good condition. This can be accomplished by removing the vent connector and looking into the liner at its base.
The Round Top can be removed for inspection purposes removing the fastening screws. Again, have it inspected by a qualified heating or chimney technician?

Reference
Upon completion of the installation, fill in the information below and keep in a safe place for future reference.

Chimney Model : ____
Installation Date : ____
Dealer Name : __
Address: __
City, Province/State :
Technician`s Name :
Technician` s
Certification Number : ____
Address : __
City, Province/State:

FLEXI-LINE R ® SIZER

RIGID CONNECTOR – SIZING INFORMATION

GENERAL VENTING REQ UIREMENTS
A1. The air space around an installed Flexi-Liner System must not be used to vent other appliances.

A2. A  Flexi-Liner System venting more than one appliance shall not be smaller in diameter than the outlet of the largest appliance being served.

A3. For single appliance installations, the Flexi-Liner System may be smaller in diameter than the outlet of the appliance being served, providing:

• a) the vent height is at least 10ft.
• b) the liner size is notmore than one size smaller.
• c) the “FAN MAX” is reduced by 10%if the appliance is “fan assisted”.
• d) the outlet is larger than 4″ if the appliance is “natural draft”.

A4. Reduce F lexi-Liner capacity for elbows (turns) as follows:

A4.1. Single Appliance (two 900 elbows for total vent system are factored into the chart)

a)In USA – for each additional elbow up to 450, reduce capacity by 5%.
– for each additional elbow 450-900, reduce capacity by 10%.

b) In C DA – for each additional elbow 900 reduce capacity by 10% for NAT and 15% for FAN.

A4.2. Multiple Appliances (900 turn at the bottom of the liner is factored into Chart)
a) In the USA- for each elbow in the common vent up to 450, reduce capacity by 5%. for each elbow 450-900, reduce capacity by 10%.
b) In C DA- for each 900 elbow in the common vent, reduce capacity by 10% for NAT and 15% for FAN.

Common Vent manifold fitting is part of the connector sizing coming to it.

A5. Do not use these tables if the vent system contains any device (such as a vent damper, draft regulator or heat reclaimer, etc.), that retards the flow of vent gases. Refer to instructions provided by the manufacturer of the device for vent instructions.
A6. Interpolation betw’een the table entries is permitted, extrapolation beyond the table entries is not permitted.
A7. Vent connector sizes for multiple appliances are derived from tables included in the following national gas codes: NFPA 54 (USA) and 8149.1 (CDA).
A8. These tables are derived from the National Fuel Gas Code (NFPA 54 & CSA-B149). Current code data and information will supersede these sizing instructions if there is any discrepancy

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS

Bl . Flexi-Liner System is UL/ULC Listed for relining existing masonry or factory-built chimneys and vents serving Category I natural I gas or propane- fired appliances.
B2. Insulating of Flexi-Liner System is a benefit to the installation but not always essential to the effective operation of this venting system. Consult the Flexi-Sleeve installation instructions for application guidelines.
B3. The use of a ‘Y” fitting rather than a “T” fitting is recommended when common venting into a manifold system.
B4. AVOID CONDENSATION and/or SPILLAGE OF FLUE GASES:
a) Install Flexi-Liner as per installation instructions.
b) Setup appliances as per appliance installation instructions.
B5. Contact local authorities for restrictions and regulations in your area.
B6. Venting gas-fired appliances into masonry chimneys is prohibited unless a Listed liner such as a Flexi-Liner, or a tile liner conforming to Code is utilized. Oversized, misaligned, and/or cracked tiles DO NOT constitute a Code liner.

Selkirk Corporation
5030 Corporate Exchange Blvd.
Grand Rapids, MI 49512
Toll Free : 1.800.433.63 41

• www.selkirkcorp.com
• info@selkirkcorp.com

Selkirk Canada Corporation
P.O. Box 526, Depot 1 Hamilton, ON L8L 7X6
Toll Free : 1.888.Selkirk (735.5475)

@2009 Flexi-Liner All rights reserved

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