Flue Routing Safety for Wood Burners and Diesel Heaters
Installing a wood burner or diesel heater in a campervan requires safe flue routing. Poor installation can cause carbon monoxide poisoning, fire, or structural damage. Here's how to do it safely.
Why Flue Routing Matters
The flue removes combustion gases from your van. If it's not installed correctly, those gases — including carbon monoxide — can leak into your living space. Carbon monoxide is colourless, odourless, and deadly.
Wood Burner Flue Rules
Clearance Distances
- To combustible materials (wood, plastic): 3x the flue diameter (e.g., 50mm diameter = 150mm clearance)
- To non-combustible materials (metal, concrete): 1.5x the flue diameter
- To the roof: At least 200mm above the roof level
Flue Route
- Vertical is best: Straight up through the roof
- Horizontal runs: Keep them short and slope upwards
- Avoid bends: Each bend reduces draw and increases soot buildup
Materials
- Stainless steel: Best for campervans. Corrosion-resistant, durable
- Carbon steel: Cheaper but heavier and prone to rust
- Double-skinned: Insulated, reduces external heat. Recommended
Diesel Heater Flue Rules
Clearance Distances
- To combustible materials: 50mm minimum
- To fuel lines: 100mm minimum
- To the ground: 200mm minimum
Flue Route
- Short and direct: Minimise length and bends
- Slope upwards: Helps condensation drain
- Exit through the floor or wall: Not the roof
Materials
- Stainless steel: Best for durability
- Flexible stainless steel: Good for tight spaces
Installation Tips
Use a Professional
If you're not confident, hire a professional. A bad installation can kill you.
Get a Carbon Monoxide Alarm
Fit a CO alarm near the heater. Test it regularly. This is your last line of defence.
Inspect Regularly
Check the flue for damage, corrosion, or blockages. Clean it annually.
Seal Everything
Use high-temperature sealant to seal all joints. Gas leaks are dangerous.
Common Mistakes
- Too many bends: Reduces draw, increases soot
- Too small diameter: Restricts airflow
- No CO alarm: Deadly if there's a leak
- Using cheap materials: Corrode and fail
- Poor sealing: Gas leaks into the living space
Conclusion
Flue routing is not a DIY job unless you're confident. Use quality materials, follow clearance distances, and fit a CO alarm. When in doubt, hire a professional. Your life depends on it.
