Single wall vs Twin Wall Flue Pipe
The flue system is one of the most important parts of any stove installation. It carries smoke and gases safely away from the stove while also helping the fire burn properly.
When the flue system is installed correctly, your stove will burn more efficiently and produce better heat. It will also help smoke flow smoothly out of the van rather than lingering inside.
The flue size we use
Our stoves typically use a 3 inch (76mm) flue pipe.
This size works really well for compact stoves and keeps the whole installation neat and space-efficient inside a campervan. A smaller flue also makes it easier to pass through the van roof without needing a large opening.
You’ll see this size used in many van, boat and tiny space installations because it provides excellent airflow while still keeping the system compact.
Single wall vs twin wall pipe
Most campervan stove installations use two different types of pipe.
Single wall pipe is normally used inside the van, connecting directly to the stove. Twin wall pipe is then used where the flue passes through the roof and on the outside of the van.
Using the two types together creates a safe and efficient chimney system.
Single wall pipe
Single wall pipe connects straight onto the stove and runs upwards inside the van.
Because it is a single layer of metal it becomes hot when the stove is running. This is completely normal and actually helps the stove perform well, as the heat keeps the smoke warm and encourages it to rise up the flue.
Single wall pipe does need space around it, as nearby materials must be protected from heat.
A common guideline is to allow a clearance of around three times the pipe diameter. With a 76mm pipe this works out to roughly 225mm from combustible materials.
If a heat shield is installed behind the stove or pipe this distance can often be reduced, which is helpful when space is limited in a van.
Twin wall pipe
Twin wall pipe is an insulated flue pipe made from two layers of metal with insulation between them.
This insulation keeps the heat inside the flue while reducing the temperature on the outside of the pipe.
Twin wall pipe is normally used where the flue passes through the roof and on the external section of the chimney. The insulation helps the smoke stay hot as it rises, which improves the chimney draw and helps the stove burn more efficiently.
It also means the outside of the pipe runs cooler than single wall pipe, helping protect surrounding materials.
Typical campervan flue setup
Most campervan stove installations follow a similar layout.
The stove sits inside the van with single wall pipe rising upwards. Before reaching the roof, the system connects to a single-to-twin wall adapter. From there, twin wall pipe passes through the roof and continues outside the van, finishing with a rain cap on top.
Keeping the flue as straight and vertical as possible helps the stove draw properly and improves overall performance.
Flue kits
We know choosing the right flue parts can feel a bit confusing when you're planning a stove installation.
To make things easier we offer both single wall and twin wall flue pipe kits designed specifically for campervan stove installations. These kits include the components most commonly needed, so you don’t have to piece everything together from different suppliers.
It’s a much simpler way to make sure everything fits together properly and works as it should.
Need help with your setup?
If you're planning to install a stove and you're unsure which flue parts you need, feel free to get in touch. Or, if you need a different length of pipe, let us know!
We’re always happy to help and answer questions about stove installations, whether you're building a campervan, boat, cabin or another small space.