When it comes to heating your home with a wood or gas heater, one of the most important—yet often overlooked—components is the flue pipe system. The flue is responsible for safely venting combustion gases from your fireplace or heater out of your home, ensuring clean indoor air, proper heating performance, and long-term safety.
Among the top-rated brands in the industry, LOPI stands out as a trusted name in heating appliances—and their flue pipe systems are no exception. Designed to work seamlessly with LOPI wood and gas heaters, LOPI flue pipes offer the perfect blend of durability, efficiency, and compliance with Australian and international safety standards.
In this detailed article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about LOPI flue pipe systems, from their benefits and features to installation requirements, maintenance tips, and why they’re a superior choice for any home or commercial space.
What Is a LOPI Flue Pipe?
A LOPI flue pipe is a specially designed venting component used to exhaust smoke, fumes, and gases from a LOPI wood or gas heater. It is engineered to meet the specific performance and safety standards required by LOPI heating systems.
Unlike generic flue pipes, LOPI flue pipes are:
- Tailored to fit LOPI fireplaces and heaters
- Manufactured from premium-grade stainless steel or galvanized steel
- Available in single-skin, double-skin, and triple-skin options
- Designed for optimal draft and minimal heat loss
Why Choose a LOPI Flue Pipe System?
When you install a premium heating unit like a LOPI heater, it only makes sense to pair it with a flue system engineered to match. Here’s why a LOPI flue pipe is the best fit:
✅ 1. Engineered Compatibility
LOPI flue pipes are specifically designed to match the dimensions, exhaust flow, and temperature output of LOPI heating appliances. This ensures:
- Better performance
- Safer operation
- Longer lifespan of both the flue and the heater
✅ 2. Premium Build Quality
Made from high-grade 304 or 316 stainless steel, LOPI flue pipes are highly resistant to:
- Corrosion
- Heat damage
- Warping or cracking
- Moisture and salt air (especially in coastal areas)
✅ 3. Triple-Skin Insulated Flue Options
LOPI offers triple-skin flue systems that provide exceptional insulation between the inner pipe and outer surfaces. These prevent:
- Excessive heat radiation
- Burns or injuries on contact
- Roof and ceiling damage
✅ 4. Australian Standards Compliance
LOPI flue pipes meet or exceed AS/NZS 2918—Australia’s official standard for solid fuel burning appliances, which covers:
- Minimum clearance distances
- Heat shielding
- Structural safety
- Emission levels
✅ 5. Sleek Appearance
LOPI flue pipes offer a clean, modern look with either polished stainless steel or black matte finish, blending beautifully with both contemporary and rustic home décor styles.
Types of LOPI Flue Pipes
LOPI provides several options to suit different heating setups:
🔹 Single-Skin Flue
- Ideal for connecting the heater to the start of the flue system
- Requires shielding and minimum clearances
- Suitable for sections within the firebox enclosure
🔹 Double-Skin Flue
- Two layers of steel with air insulation
- Reduces heat transfer
- Suitable for internal walls and straight installations
🔹 Triple-Skin Insulated Flue
- The best choice for through-ceiling and through-roof applications
- Features a thermal barrier to keep outer surfaces cool
- Ideal for long-term safety and efficiency
🔹 Flexible Flue Liners
- Used in chimney retrofit installations
- Can be custom-fitted for older brick fireplaces
Each type comes with compatible fittings like elbows, flashing, caps, spacers, and ceiling rings.
Complete LOPI Flue Kit Components
A typical LOPI flue kit includes:
- Inner stainless steel flue pipe
- Outer decorative casing (often black)
- Triple-skin insulated roof flue section
- Ceiling ring
- Roof flashing and storm collar
- Flue cowl or rain cap
- Spacer brackets and ceiling support
These kits are designed for easy installation and optimal draft performance, and most are supplied in standard heights with adjustable sections available.
Installation Guidelines for LOPI Flue Pipes
Proper installation is critical to ensure safety and effectiveness. While DIY is possible for experienced users, professional installation is highly recommended. Here’s what you need to know:
🔧 Clearance Requirements
- Minimum 25mm–50mm clearance from combustibles
- Must comply with AS/NZS 2918 standards
- Always maintain vertical alignment where possible
🔧 Roof Penetration
Use insulated triple-skin flue pipes when penetrating the ceiling and roof. Secure with:
- Roof flashing (custom or adjustable)
- Storm collar to prevent water leaks
- Ceiling ring for clean visual finish
🔧 Minimum Height
The flue must extend at least 600mm above the highest point of the roof and must be clear of any obstructions within 3 meters.
🔧 Secure Bracketing
Install flue supports and wall brackets every 2.5m to ensure stability against high winds and thermal expansion.
Maintenance Tips for LOPI Flue Pipes
LOPI flue systems are designed for minimal maintenance, but regular inspection and cleaning can extend their lifespan.
🧼 Annual Flue Cleaning
- Sweep the flue annually to remove soot or creosote buildup
- Use a flue brush appropriate for the flue diameter
🔍 Check for Blockages
- Inspect the flue cap for leaves, bird nests, or debris
- Clear any obstructions immediately
💧 Inspect Seals
- Ensure all joins are sealed properly
- Look for rust spots or moisture leaks
🔄 Replace Worn Components
- Over time, parts like gaskets, flashing, or cowls may need replacing
LOPI Flue Pipe Safety Features
LOPI flue systems are engineered with safety in mind:
- Cool-touch outer casing reduces burn risk
- Integrated spark arrestors in the flue cowl prevent ember discharge
- Seamless joints prevent smoke leaks
- Ventilation allowances ensure healthy airflow
This makes them suitable not only for homes but also commercial spaces, cabins, and rural properties.
Common Applications for LOPI Flue Pipes
LOPI flue pipes can be used with a variety of LOPI appliances:
- Freestanding Wood Heaters (e.g., Lopi Cape Cod, Rockport)
- Built-in Fireplaces (e.g., Lopi 864 Clean Face or 4415 HO GS2)
- Gas Fireplaces with direct venting systems
- Retrofit Chimney Conversions
Whether you’re installing a new LOPI heater or upgrading an older one, the right flue system is essential.
Where to Buy LOPI Flue Pipes in Australia
LOPI products are distributed through certified dealers and showrooms across Australia. Some well-known stockists include:
- Lopi Fireplaces Australia
- Jetmaster Australia
- Home Heat & BBQ specialists
- Heating showrooms in VIC, NSW, QLD, and WA
Make sure to buy from an authorised LOPI dealer to ensure warranty coverage and expert support.
Benefits of Professional Installation
While flue kits are designed for ease of use, professional installers offer:
- Guaranteed code compliance
- Faster installation time
- Correct sealing and flashing
- Post-installation testing and smoke draw evaluation
- Manufacturer-backed warranties
Some local councils also require professional installation to meet building codes and insurance requirements.
Final Thoughts
When investing in a premium LOPI heater, it’s essential to pair it with a genuine LOPI flue pipe system. With unmatched durability, design, and safety features, these flues deliver peace of mind for homeowners and heating professionals alike.
Whether you’re renovating, building a new home, or simply upgrading your old wood heater, choosing a LOPI flue system means:
- Maximum heating efficiency
- Long-term corrosion resistance
- Stylish design aesthetics
- Enhanced safety and air quality
