Blocking up a chimney

[Michaelsf90]

So I didn't know what to put as the thread title. It isn't blocking up a chimney completely. The house we've bought and the fire we've inherited is too big and powerful and failed the gas safe. The fire is also broke so isn't in use. The fireplace is ornamental and we may eventually get it fixed but it isn't a priority at the minute. The chimney has a cowling on. Whenever it's windy we can hear it blowing across the cowling and it can get quite loud. Now I am after opinions and advice. Do we replace the cowling? It's like a flattish one with lots of holes in the side. I know you can get zero downdraught cowlings. Or do we get a chimney sheep seeing as we don't use the fire. The chimney sheep I'm guessing would stop the wind noise and I'm guessing make the front room slightly warmer. Now I know of damp and condensation problems when blocking a chimney but apparently the chimney sheep is breathable and it allows moisture to pass through. The chimney is still open at the top so it's still vented. Does this sound like a good idea or should we get the cowling replaced? Opinions are much appreciated

 

[pilsbury]

I was under the impression that if you block a chimney top and bottom you don't need a vent. If you just choose either top or bottom it needs a vent. But I'd confirm that.

 

[Michaelsf90]

We don't want to block it at the top in case we ever decide on replacing the fire in the future. Apparently the chimney sheep is made of breathable material so does that mean technically it's still vented at the bottom?

 

[pilsbury]

No idea what this sheep is.... The block at the top can be temporary.

 

[^woody^]

I was under the impression that if you block a chimney top and bottom you don't need a vent. If you just choose either top or bottom it needs a vent. But I'd confirm that.

I can't confirm that at all.

 

[^woody^]

The Chimney Sheep is for sheep.

You'll get the same effect with one of Pilsbury's old woolly jumpers shoved up the flue. Or a bit of rockwool.

 

[Ian H]

No idea what this sheep is....

Is that what you told the police too?

 

[pilsbury]

You'll get the same effect with one of Pilsbury's old woolly jumpers shoved up the flue. Or a bit of rockwool.

Is that what you told the police too?

Woolly jumper..... Sheep? No idea your honour.