Abstract: In a regenerative furnace of the type used for melting glass, localized overheating of the regenerating regenerator packing is minimized and heating of the regenerator packing is made more uniform by the utilization of a second flue. The first flue passage is in continuous contact with the regenerative packing while the second passage is joined to said first passage at points at each end of the regenerative packing. Further, there are flow control dampers located in said first passageway between the regenerative packing and the joining point of the second bypass flue and another damper in the bypass flue itself to regulate the passage of hot gas to and from the regenerative packing so that the packing is evenly heated or cooled.