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When venting a boiler or furnace, installers have several approved configurations available, including traditional twin pipe venting and concentric venting. Both approaches are safe, reliable, and code‑compliant when installed using a certified venting system and in accordance with the appliance manufacturer’s instructions.
Concentric venting is one such option, valued not because it replaces other methods, but because it can offer practical advantages in certain applications. In HVAC installations where space, aesthetics, or penetration count are key considerations, a concentric vent system can be a smart and convenient choice.
What Is a Concentric Vent?
A concentric vent combines the combustion air intake and flue gas exhaust into a single, engineered assembly. The flue gases travel through an inner concentric vent pipe, while combustion air is drawn through the surrounding outer pipe. This configuration maintains separation between intake of air and exhaust while allowing both to terminate through a single wall or roof penetration.
In concentric vent HVAC applications, this design can simplify layout and create a clean, professional exterior appearance.
Why Consider a Concentric Vent Kit?
Using a factory‑engineered concentric vent kit removes much of the uncertainty that can come with field‑assembled solutions. A Centrotherm concentric vent kit is designed, tested, and certified as a complete system, ensuring compatibility between components and consistent performance.
Depending on the application, installers may choose from different Centrotherm concentric kit options, including larger‑diameter solutions such as the 2 concentric vent kit where appliance capacity and installation requirements call for it.
Manufacturer‑approved adapters may allow appliances originally configured for parallel venting to connect to a concentric vent system, provided the appliance and venting system are both certified for that use.
Practical Benefits of Concentric Venting
Simplified Installation
A concentric vent pipe allows for a single penetration, reducing installation steps and alignment challenges. Centrotherm’s push‑fit design and optional clamp system make installation easier, especially in shafts or tight mechanical spaces.
Space‑Saving Design
By combining intake and exhaust into one concentric vent assembly, installers can reduce wall, ceiling, and rooftop congestion while delivering a neat, compact result.
Installation Flexibility
A concentric vent kit can be used in new construction or retrofit applications where conditions allow, without major changes to the mechanical layout.
Certified System Performance
Centrotherm concentric venting systems are tested and certified as complete systems. Using a matched concentric kit helps ensure joint integrity, proper clearances, and long‑term reliability when installed according to Centrotherm and appliance manufacturer guidelines.
The Centrotherm Concentric Vent System
Centrotherm’s concentric vent system features a high‑quality inner flue gas exhaust, surrounded by a dedicated outer air intake pipe. The system runs continuously from the boiler or furnace to the approved termination point, maintaining system integrity throughout the installation.
Centrotherm concentric vent kits are designed to work only with Centrotherm components. However, Centrotherm offers a wide range of adapters.
An Option, Not a Replacement
Concentric venting is not intended to replace twin pipe venting systems. Both configurations are proven, safe, and effective when properly installed. A concentric vent simply provides an additional option, one that can reduce penetrations, save installation time, and deliver a clean, efficient solution in the right application.
With Centrotherm’s certified concentric vent kits and concentric vent pipe systems, HVAC professionals can choose the venting configuration that best fits the appliance, the building, and local code requirements, without compromising safety or performance.