Can you vent a portable air conditioner through the fireplace flue?

It is generally NOT recommended to vent a portable air conditioner through a fireplace flue. Here's why:

Safety Concerns: Venting an air conditioner through the fireplace flue can pose significant safety risks.

- Hot Air: The exhaust air from an air conditioner is hot, and the fireplace flue is designed for releasing high-temperature flue gasses. Mixing hot air with the hot gases and soot in the flue can create a dangerous buildup of heat, leading to a potential fire hazard.

- Moisture: Air conditioners release moisture as they cool the air, which can cause condensation inside the fireplace flue. Over time, this moisture can damage the flue, creating a breeding ground for mold and mildew, leading to health risks and unpleasant odors.

- Soot and Debris: Fireplace flues often accumulate soot and debris from the burning of fuel. When the air conditioner's exhaust is released into the flue, it can push this debris into the room or other parts of the house, which can cause health problems and damage to belongings.

Installation Issues:

- Size: The size of a fireplace flue may not be suitable to accommodate the air conditioner's exhaust hose properly, leading to inefficient cooling and potential air leaks.

- Location: Fireplaces are usually located in the middle of rooms or near walls, making it difficult to place the air conditioner hose in a way that doesn't obstruct living spaces or compromise efficiency.

Legal Considerations: Some local building codes and regulations may prohibit the venting of air conditioners through fireplace flues. It is important to check local regulations before attempting this kind of installation.

Alternative Venting Methods:

If you need to vent your portable air conditioner, it is safer and more efficient to use the provided window or wall mount venting kit that comes with the unit. These kits are specifically designed to vent the hot air outside safely and efficiently, minimizing safety risks and installation issues.