Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) Certification Practice Test

A connector pipe from a stove inserts the flue, passing through a what?

1. Vent

2. Thimble

3. Cap

4. Duct

The correct answer is: Thimble

The correct answer is thimble because it serves as a protective device that facilitates the safe passage of the connector pipe from a stove into the chimney flue. A thimble provides a secure transition point and is designed to handle the heat and potential buildup of gases, ensuring that they do not compromise the surrounding structure. Building codes often mandate the use of thimbles as they help maintain proper clearance and insulation, thereby reducing the risk of fire hazards. In a proper installation, the thimble effectively prevents chimney leaks and allows for a smoother connection that minimizes temperature fluctuations within the flue. Other options do serve specific functions in HVAC or chimney systems, but they do not fulfill the same role as a thimble. For instance, a vent is typically used for expelling or drawing in air or fumes but does not provide an appropriate passage through the wall. A cap is designed to protect the flue from rain and debris while also preventing downdrafts, but it does not serve as a connector for a stove pipe. Lastly, ducts are pathways for air rather than solid fuel emissions and are not used in the same context of connecting stovepipes to chimney flues.