Chimney balloon alternative. Jan 5, 2022 · 7 Eco-friendly alternatives to balloons. We'll see if it stops the drafts and moreover the stink from the chimney. Jan 31, 2025 · When we asked heating and energy experts how to draught-proof a chimney, they recommended three easy DIY solutions: Chimney Sheep, Balloon, and Chimella. Use again and again *Please Chimney Draught Excluders We’ve been blocking chimneys since 1989! Chimneys are the biggest source of heat loss in the home. Discover the importance of chimney balloon insulation, learn about its benefits, types, installation, and maintenance tips to optimize your homes energy efficiency. Typically constructed from durable, non-porous materials, they are installed to prevent drafts and heat loss when a fireplace or wood-burning stove is not in use. Jun 18, 2023 · Balloons can be harmful to our environment and especially wildlife so consider these environmentally friendly balloon alternatives instead. We have been taking a look at how effective they are, how to use them and what the alternatives might be. Explore chimney balloons designed to reduce draughts and heat loss. It will stop debris, soot and bird droppings falling into the room. Instead of littering the planet by letting balloons go, you can instead have fun, celebrate, and remember with environmentally-friendly alternatives. Sep 12, 2025 · The Energy Savings Trust The Energy Savings Trust changed their advice from “buy a chimney balloon” to “buy a chimney draught excluder” when they became aware that there was an alternative to the balloon. Step by step video on how to install a Chimney Balloon or Chimney Pillow in order to stop cold chimney drafts and eliminate fireplace odor and smoke smell. Make your home more energy efficient The nifty device sits inside a chimney to stop warm air from escaping up a chimney and cold air from Sep 26, 2019 · A chimney balloon works in the same way as a damper and helps to seal the chimney and help prevent the flow of air through it. The shape and size of the balloon must be suitable for your specific chimney and needs to be installed correctly to achieve a good seal. Eco friendly balloons - does such a thing exist and eco friendly balloon alternatives to help you celebrate without harming the environment. There are a few ways of blocking chimneys - here Henry talks us through chimney sheep and also chimney balloons. I then put a piece of tape on the gas valve that reads "check flue before using chimney". I love balloons. Balloons are so commonly used for these types of events but I'm trying to reduce waste where I can. (Actual product dimensions are 10" round) It can be trimmed with scissors to accommodate sizing and hardware. These innovative draft stoppers can slash your energy bills while keeping unwanted debris, odors, and critters from entering your home through the flue. The inflatable design allows for quick, tool-free installation—simply inflate, position inside the chimney, and secure in place. Easy Do-it-yourself installation! You can inflate it by mouth or with an air bed pump. Purchased from another online shop, paid about $35 – it went up OK, turns out it has a Jul 16, 2025 · An inflatable device designed for placement within a flue, these products serve to obstruct airflow. The Chimney Balloon inflates tightly in the fireplace flue for an energy saving seal that stops drafts, stops chimney odors, stops noise entry through the chimney. Feb 27, 2022 · Find how to create incredible party decorations with many different, more creative & eco-friendly alternatives to the unnecessary, wasteful balloons! Mar 3, 2025 · Other options include using a fireplace balloon, glass doors, or insulation to seal off the fireplace. Instruction video on how to install your chimney balloon at home. Discover inflatable chimney balloons and draft stoppers to seal your fireplace. The Fireplace Heat Saver is a great idea if your fireplace is still in use. The Chimney Balloon is an inflatable chimney blocker. You need a tight block off plate. SUMMER - In warmer weather the Chimney Balloon Chimney Pillow flue hole cover stops smoky odors, drafts, noise or debris from entering the home. Feb 9, 2024 · Do you find balloons wasteful and unsustainable? Throw a sustainable party thanks to some of these 18 eco-friendly alternatives to balloons! Nov 22, 2022 · If you're looking for great eco-friendly alternatives to balloons, these seven ideas might be just what you need! Nov 16, 2023 · Balloons, like plastic bags, create a lot of litter. Learn here if using a chimney balloon is a good choice for your house or not. It’s a good concept, but there are problems. Chimney balloons are fairly inexpensive, and can be blown up within your chimney by just using your mouth. Product description Reduce unwanted cold drafts and heat loss with this practical fireplace chimney draft blocker balloon, designed to improve comfort and energy efficiency in homes with unused fireplaces. I bought a chimeny balloon from eBay – paid about $20 – it fell apart as I was pumping it up. It stops warm air escaping up the chimney, and stops cold air sinking down. Also tips on how to stop draughts and make your home warmer and more e Chimney balloons help to keep prevent heat loss by stopping the warm air going up and cold air down the chimney. About this item STOP DRAFTS AND ODORS - This Round Chimney Flueblocker pressure fits into a 8" or 9" round flue opening. Feb 22, 2025 · If you're tired of watching your heating costs soar due to chimney drafts, you'll want to explore the most effective chimney balloons on the market. May 22, 2025 · Living without a chimney? Discover the best fireplace alternatives for flats, rentals & modern homes – including bio ethanol, electric, and infrared options. It's made with strong tri-laminate plastic, but if a fire is accidentally lit it will shrivel and fall into the grate The 21x10 Chimney Balloon works with a rectangle or square chimney that is 21"x10" or less. Multiple options available for different chimney sizes and fireplace types. k. The Chimney Balloon® is designed to inflate and push against all four walls of Mar 26, 2019 · Not to burst your bubble, but really, Chimney Balloons are useless in stopping chimney draughts in your home. Colourful, cheap and effective but unfortunately we now know them to be terrible for the environment 😩. In particular, inflatable chimney draft stoppers are balloon-like devices that expand to seal off the chimney flue, making them an easy and effective Oct 9, 2022 · Learn why balloons and balloon releases are bad for the environment, and then discover the best eco-friendly alternatives to balloons. Sep 4, 2013 · I read that a "chimney balloon" was used for that purpose? ac Wrong. This in turn means the chimney balloon will lower heating costs. Chimney caps and balloons Chimney caps and balloons It’s estimated that between 80-85% of the heat in a room can be lost through an open fireplace, so it’s important to block them when not in use. WINTER - The Chimney Balloon fireplace draft stopper blocks cold fireplace drafts and smells from a chimney. Think of it like a barrier that stops heat from escaping your home through the fireplace. Chimney Balloon was invented by David Woodman in the late 1980’s as an easy solution to heat loss and draughts from un-used chimneys. May 20, 2014 · Sheep or balloon for your chimney? Chimneys in older houses can be a real source of draughts. 6 Eco-Friendly Alternatives to Balloons It’s unfortunate that there aren’t balloons available that are 100 percent eco-friendly and safe; after all, they do bring a sense of joy to an event or celebration. The chimney balloon is not the easiest to install and it can have problems. Best Selling Chimney Balloons Is your chimney in need of some maintenance? If Jan 8, 2016 · Here’s what one looks like: The good news is the balloon should also be designed to shrink and burst should you accidentally light a fire in the fireplace. Jan 15, 2026 · Chimney balloon A simple solution to a simple problem. Most importantly the chimney balloon seals your chimney to stop draughts, reducing cold air entering the room. There are lots of easy alternatives to balloons so try pinwheels, paper streamers or home-made bubbles to keep your party sustainable, Amazon. Shop Chimney Balloon 14 x 38 Inch Large Chimney Draught Excluder. While they're cleaning it, the technician can also inspect the chimney and make recommendations on necessary services like repairing a leaking flue. Some other online articles still refer to the chimney balloon as if it was the only option for insulating the chimney. This allows you to install the Chimney Balloon higher in the flue. If you want yours to breath a bit better, just swap the bin bag Nov 6, 2012 · An unblocked open fireplace could be costing you hundreds of pounds each year. You can cap your chimney or – if you use it occasionally – block the draught with an inflatable chimney balloon. Mar 21, 2010 · A chimney balloon is a balloon made of special heat reactive, durable material. It is the safest inflatable chimney blocker on the market. Find fireplace balloons and draft blockers to stop unwanted air leaks. Chimney cowls play an essential role in preventing downdraft and keeping your home safe. Key Features Can be inflated up to 400mm wide Can be deflated and reused if required Balloons are infamously bad for the environment, yet they’re synonymous with celebrations. Specially engineered, it stops warm air going up your chimney and draughts coming back down. Block cold air, reduce energy costs, and eliminate odors effectively. It is not merely a secondary attribute but a primary determinant of its energy-saving performance, protection against condensation, and overall durability. The chimney balloon should sit in the throat of the chimney and effectively seal off the flow of air. Then, open up the dial and blow into the balloon to inflate it, checking every once and a while to make sure it's in place and fills the nooks and crannies of the chimney. Feb 10, 2026 · The Chimney Sheep is made from 100% wool, apart from the recycled plastic handle. A good cleaning prevents chimney fires due to creosote buildup. The fireplace gases would be able to escape thereby preventing a really dangerous situation from occurring. It's easy to use; you just place it inside the chimney (don't worry if the walls are a bit rough -- this balloon can take it!), inflate, and turn off its air tap. The Chimney Balloon® isn’t stretchy like a party balloon, but it has double walls which enable it to keep its pillow shape when it’s inflated. uk: inflatable chimney balloon Disco Party Decorations Ball Balloons 10Pcs Pink Purple Music Note Party Balloons Set, 4D Shining Disco Star Balloons, Inflatable Guitar Balloons for Singer Fans, 80s Rock & Roll Dancing Queen What is a Chimney Balloon ? Original and best Our Chimney Balloon is the original inflatable draught excluder for chimneys, and now it’s even tougher! It’s still the most effective and safest option out there, keeping your home cosy and draft-free. . My DIY chimney plug does not have this failsafe. The rubber bands hold the top and bottom together, enabling it to push outwards as it’s inflated. While these thin-walled air vessels are incredibly fun and easily available in every convenience or online store, most people forget that balloons are made of non-recyclable and non-biodegradable plastic. Not bad for something that costs around 50-dollars. Free delivery on eligible orders of £20 or more. In this article, we'll go over why you shouldn't rely on chimney balloons to help you with your chimney problems. I live in a 1930s double-brick in Melbourne – moved in a few months ago. Carefully follow the installation instructions provided with the chimney balloon. • Chimney balloons are a simple and effective way of blocking chimneys when not in use. You just need to measure your chimney then choose the most appropriate size. It's easy to install, with no tools required and can be inflated up to 400mm wide - plus, it can even be deflated and reused if required. Here's why you should say no to balloons and some eco-friendly alternatives to balloons. flue blockers, chimney pillows, draft stoppers and the trademarked Chimney Balloon) are an inexpensive way to choke off drafts when a fireplace is not in use. Nov 11, 2021 · A chimney balloon is a device that attaches to the top of your chimney and helps prevent cold air from entering into your home. The medium size makes it ideal for homeowners with appliances that do not exceed 16-18kW heat output and/or flue sizes of up to 13 in diameter. Chimney Balloon or Sheep, Cheap and Fast alternative. Home made draught excluder made in less than 2 minutes and just as effective. They compact easily but are also very flexible so I made a ball of plastic bags and shoved them up the chimney. Usually made from single use plastic, balloons not only go to landfill, but they also pose a significant health risk to farm animals and wildlife. As well as traditional chimney pot covers for use with solid fuel fires, you can also find specialist alternatives suitable for gas and oil systems too – at The Chimney Balloon fireplace air blocker is easy to install into a disabled or removed gas log vent using the black, 7'' long handle valve on the bottom. Apr 26, 2020 · The Chimney Balloon is designed to inflate and push against all four walls of the chimney, holding itself firmly in place. Having an open chimney is like leaving your window open all the time. Feb 12, 2026 · Although a chimney balloon is shaped more like a cushion than a party balloon, it is an inflatable device made of thin yet strong plastic. Available in various sizes for any fireplace opening. There's an upfront cost involved in each of them, but they'll do wonders for draught-proofing your fireplace and saving energy. How to install a chimney balloon What is the alternative to the chimney balloon? The chimney sheep works on the same principle as the chimney balloon, blocking up the chimney. You use chimney balloon to block the flue in an unused fireplace. I have a cabinet full of old plastic Walmart bags. Here are some of the advantages of using a chimney balloon. The Chimney Balloon® is an inflatable fireplace blocker that prevents drafts from a chimney caused by a broken, warped, or missing flue damper. I'm planning an office opening for my work and looking for alternatives to balloons. The Problem: Energy Loss Through the Chimney Even when closed, a fireplace damper isn’t The Chimney Balloon® is the original inflatable chimney draught excluder. In the Spring and Summer stop unpleasant smokey odor, and bugs or bats from entering the home. We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. It also muffles wind noise, and stops wildlife and debris falling down the chimney. We are officially in winter and i May 27, 2022 · The other uninvited likely to come down your chimney include dust, air pollutants, insects, sometimes birds, and sometimes rain. It stops heat loss by acting as a chimney plug draft stopper that air seals and insulates the fireplace. No more heat loss or drafts. If you do not regularly use your fireplace, a chimney balloon is an ideal way to stop chimney drafts and save energy. Fitting a Chimney Balloon® to an open chimney is like fitting the gap with double glazing. Chimney balloons are great but if you have a gas or coal fire they are not much use as there is the problem of taking the balloon out and remembering to put it back once the fire has cooled. • Stops chimney draughts • Stops debris, soot and bird mess • Reduces outside noise entering the room • Saves on heating bill by stopping downdraughts and updraughts • Allows a little ventilation • Sizes to fit all chimneys • Inflate to install, deflate to remove. Like many other eco-friendly alternatives to party decorations (read my blog on eco glitter here,) you should do your research on balloon alternatives before buying in. Inflate into place in the fireplace flue just above the damper. In the wintertime, this allows you to have a fire going while still maintaining a comfortable temperature in your house. So – are balloon alternatives a greenwashed scam or a legitimate option? Let’s Eco-Friendly Alternatives to Balloons | Summary With only a little bit of effort, it’s easy to come up with eco-friendly ways to remember someone or plan a party. The savings are noticeable. There is a small vent in the side of the product which allows some airflow, permitting your chimney to “breathe”. Stops heat loss by acting as a chimney plug draft stopper that air seals and insulates. Those balloons aren't cheap! Chimney Balloon or Sheep | Cheap and fast DIY alternative Chimney Draught StopperHappy New Year, happy New Year to you all. The Chimney Balloon Handgrip/Valve Extender Kit is a way to extend the handle valve of your Chimney Balloon by 16 inches. Dec 8, 2023 · If your chimney is drafty, you can go about fixing the problem in a few ways. For example, during the summer months, one might be inserted into the chimney to stop warm air from entering the home and cool air There are many safe, fun, and eye-catching alternatives to balloons for parties, memorials, fundraisers, and more! The Chimney Balloon® is designed to inflate and push against all four walls of the chimney, holding itself firmly in place. If you prefer a more permanent solution, you might consider closing off the chimney from the top by fitting a chimney cap or cowl. Whilst a good bit of air circulation is required in older homes you can get too much of a good thing! CleverlySolved Installation of Chimney Balloon, Flueblocker and Chimella Cleverly Solved 41 subscribers Subscribe Planning a party and wondering how to replace balloons with an eco-friendly option? Here is a huge list of alternatives to balloons to make any occasion greener Nov 17, 2022 · They are so expensive and we have way too many chimneys! 6 to be exact. Energy Vanguard, a company working to improve home performance, found these relatively inexpensive chimney balloons make a huge difference. Dec 15, 2022 · Chimney balloons – a term sometimes used for chimney draught excluders – are often suggested as a method for draught proofing a chimney. Chimney Balloons The chimney balloon is the fast and easy way of blocking your chimney when not in use. This Universal Chimney Balloon is a specialised product designed to be placed inside your chimney, preventing both heat from escaping your home and draughts from entering. The Chimney Balloon remains the most effective and safest inflatable chimney draught excluder on the market and here’s why: Reduces energy bills Reduces CO 2 output Stops wildlife and debris falling through the chimney Reduces wind noise down a chimney Safe and PVC free Stretchy and Chimney Balloons are the Best product available for blocking Chimneys when not in use. The Chimney Balloon is an inflatable fireplace draft stopper. a. Get a Chimney Draught Stopper instead! Jan 10, 2015 · Does anyone use either a chimney balloon or chimney sheep in their open fire and if so would you recommend it? Chimney balloons or pillows are one of the easiest and cheapest ways to block a chimney. Now it’s even more durable. Made of durable plastic or rubber, they’re inserted into the flue and inflated to create a seal that stops draughts and debris from entering. We have four different sizes of Chimney Balloon, and each one fits a wide range of chimneys. The handle means there is less mess as you don’t have to wave your arms around up the chimney! How to make a DIY chimney balloon at home, quickly and with very little expense! Blocking drafts from your chimney can save you money and energy Almost bought a chimney balloon, then I figured I'd try something free first instead. Aug 28, 2024 · Discover what a chimney balloon is and how it can improve energy efficiency in your home. If you use a wood-burning stove or fireplace to heat your room, a chimney cowl will help to stop smoke from coming back down the chimney. Read our informative articles on chimney balloons and their benefits. Nov 15, 2012 · Installing the balloon is simple. There’s a long list of things that willingly enter your home without you even knowing. Put that one down to buying cheap stuff. In the Fall and Winter stop cold uncomfortable fireplace drafts. Every Chimney Balloon draft stopper also comes with a two-foot-long removable clear inflation tube that connects to the handle valve to make inflation easy. Save up to 30% on your heating bills by simply fitting a Chimney Balloon. The Smart Alternative to Permanent Changes Chimney balloons and chimney sheep represent intelligent, cost-effective solutions to chimney drafts without the commitment or potential problems of permanent modifications. I need to block-up a chimney – for some reason it's proving more difficult than it should. Two Englander 30-NCLs Heat Redefined (One a spare in waiting), Englander 25-PDVC Poulan Pro 405+ 65cc, 2 Husky 142s, Chusky 5200, Poulan 1975, 1988 Duerr Splitter Lots of people Feb 9, 2023 · Eco-Friendly Balloon - Our 5 Alternatives Balloons have long been the go-to decor items for celebrations and parties. There are a few threads on here about chimney balloons but I wanted some advice on an alternative. It also insulates against sound, prevents debris and wildlife from falling in, reduces weather ingress and will save you money on your fuel bill every year. What is a Chimney Draft Stopper? A chimney draft stopper is a device designed to block the flow of air in and out of your chimney when it’s not in use. Apr 24, 2019 · Looking for eco-friendly and safe alternatives to balloon releases and sky lanterns? Celebrate in a way that won’t endanger the environment. Explore creative, planet-friendly options for your special occasions. We need something that is eye-catching and adds visual appeal. Its purpose is to block the opening of a chimney that is not in use. First, place the deflated balloon into the chimney, pushing it up all the way (just make sure the nozzle is still accessible). The chimney balloon comes in a host of different sizes – simply put in place and inflate it to create a barrier, preventing the transfer of heat. Fireplaces act like a vacuum in winter—drawing warm indoor air up and out, while pulling freezing air in through cracks in your home. From custom-sized solutions to universal fits, today's top chimney balloons offer features you Dec 21, 2007 · A bin bag stuffed with loft insulation! Of course! Cheers Bob, that's just saved me £20 a pop for each chimney. It makes an airtight seal that blocks outside air and chimney odor from entering your home. Fortunately, the Draft Stopper Chimney Balloon offers a smart, affordable solution. The Fireplace Heatsaver does away with all that effort. Make your home more energy efficient The nifty device sits inside a chimney to stop warm air from escaping up a chimney and cold air from Explore chimney balloons designed to reduce draughts and heat loss. A video demonstrating how to use a chimney balloon to reduce heat loss from your home. How does it work? A chimney balloon is an incredibly simple concept, it is simply a balloon is inflated up within the chimney flue where it sits What is a Chimney Balloon ? Original and best Our Chimney Balloon is the original inflatable draught excluder for chimneys, and now it’s even tougher! It’s still the most effective and safest option out there, keeping your home cosy and draft-free. Mar 31, 2014 · The Claim Simple and effective, The Chimney Balloon is the must-have for every energy-conscious home. While cost factors often influence material choices, neglecting thermal resistance can lead to diminished long-term This Chimney Balloon works on a chimney or smoke shelf smaller than 24"X9". Nov 3, 2013 · Hi everyone. Nov 11, 2025 · Complete guide to selecting, installing, and safely using a chimney balloon to stop drafts and boost your home’s energy efficiency. Jul 29, 2025 · The basic tools for chimney balloon installation include a measuring tape for accurate flue dimension assessment, a suitable inflation pump (often provided with the device), and potentially a flashlight for improved visibility within the chimney flue. Oct 1, 2025 · What Is The Alternative To Chimney Balloons? Alternatives include Chimney Sheep (wool-based plugs that allow ventilation), chimney caps or top dampers (permanent, long-lasting solutions), and specialist draught excluders that cover the fireplace opening. co. What’s more, it’ll pay for itself within 3 months. Your chimney could be the culprit. What can I use instead? I found a roll of loft insulation for £30 but will t They are a plastic or metal covers that go over the chimney pot to seal it, capping it off more permanently than hearth covers, inflatable and felted wool flue blockers. Nov 11, 2021 · The Chimney Balloon® 24×12 Inflatable Blocker (Medium Chimney Pillow®) is a lightweight, durable chimney balloon designed for use in all types of woodburning fireplaces. Stops cold drafts, bad flue odors, bats, birds, and bugs from entering your home through the chimney Inflates wall to wall, so it creates a very tight seal as it conforms to the size and shape of the flue hole The multi-layer acid-resistant membrane holds up to the abrasive and acidic environment in the chimney Usually installed above the damper Jul 21, 2025 · In summary, material thermal resistance is a paramount consideration in the design and selection of a chimney balloon. Jan 10, 2025 · Fireplace plugs (a. A Chimney Balloon® is an inflatable chimney draught excluder that reduces heat loss through a chimney and cold air draughts from other parts of a home. Chimney balloon seemed overpriced so I did the next best thing. Jul 31, 2022 · Celebrate sustainably with the 10 best eco-friendly balloon alternatives. One of its employees put a chimney balloon in his house and cut the air leakage by 20-percent. Also needs to not require hanging and be able to be outside. bbbf vpuu bzrzfcvf qodbb ladyxoiq ktjoysa glh qzkhxh drxdndq fjai