fireplace insert...need to clean pipe...need size....

[mldollins]

I currently an insert and we used our fireplace last year. I know that either Lowes or menards has a Brush to clean the pipe. Are the brushes standard size or are their different sizes?

I would prefer not to have to get on the roof and pull the top to measure only to have to repeat the process of taking it apart a few days later.....

thanks....

[Harry Chickpea]

Different sizes. 6" 8" 10" are common. If you have stainless steel, you may want to consider using a weighted bag of straw (or 40 lbs of sugar) or a brush with plastic bristles. Metal bristles are good at cleaning but can scratch.

[Cabin Fever]

I agree with everything Harry said.

If you are willing to take a chance, I would bet that if the insert is somewhat old (no catalyst or no secondary combustion tubes) the pipe size is 8". If the insert is new with an EPA required air pollution device, my bet is a 6" pipe.

If you are going to be using a rods with your brush and you have elbows in your chimney pipe, make sure you buy flexible polyester rods...not the stiffer fiberglass rods.