What must be done to a chimney before installing a new oil-burning appliance?

When installing a new oil-burning appliance, ensuring that the chimney is properly lined is crucial for safety and efficiency. A lined chimney provides the necessary structural integrity and helps to protect the chimney walls from the corrosive byproducts generated by oil combustion. This lining also facilitates the safe and efficient exhaust of flue gases while reducing the risk of chimney fires and preventing leaks of harmful gases into the living space.

Chimneys without liners may not effectively contain these gases, leading to serious health and safety hazards. Additionally, local building codes often require that chimneys used for new installations comply with specific lining requirements, particularly for oil-burning appliances.

In contrast, cleaning the chimney, although important, is generally focused on existing buildups that may affect performance but does not address the fundamental structural needs that potentially arise with new appliance installations. Replacing a chimney entirely may not be necessary unless it is in poor condition or not compliant with current building requirements. Painting the chimney has no impact on its function or safety concerning the installation of an oil-burning appliance.