Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) Certification Practice Test

Which of the following are considered vented appliances?

1. Electric heaters

2. Oil, gas, and pellet appliances

3. Coal stoves

4. Wood burning outdoor grills

The correct answer is: Oil, gas, and pellet appliances

Vented appliances are those that require a chimney or vent to exhaust combustion gases safely outside. Oil, gas, and pellet appliances fall under this category because they burn fuel and produce byproducts, such as carbon monoxide and water vapor, that must be vented to prevent harmful accumulation of these gases indoors. These appliances are designed to operate with a flue or vent system, ensuring that combustion byproducts are expelled safely out of the home. In contrast, electric heaters do not produce combustion gases as they operate using electricity, eliminating the need for venting. Coal stoves and wood-burning outdoor grills may produce gases, but they are not categorized as vented appliances in the same context as oil, gas, and pellet appliances, especially when considering their conventional use and installation requirements. Coal stoves can sometimes be vented, but many are designed for different settings or methods. Outdoor grills, especially those designed for casual or outdoor cooking, aren’t specifically considered vented appliances, as they are open and emit smoke and gases directly into the environment rather than having a dedicated venting system.