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How know gas fireplace exhaust safe?
By admin | May 13, 2008
Lighthearted asked:
I have a craftsman installing replacement gas pipe for a gas fireplace and also a gas firplace kit from Lowe's; we are basically replacing the gas fireplace. The house was built in 1958 and at some point had a gas fireplace but it has not been used in years. The chimney is intact and goes up to an opening. I had it inspected by a chimney sweep and he said does not meet code for wood burning as it is just a brick chimney, with no steel insert. I am wondering how do I know the exhaust from this new gas fireplace will all go up the chimney and none will go back into the house? How do I know it is safe. Could I have my gas company test it? Or is there another way to insure it is safe? Is this a valid concern?
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May 14th, 2008 at 8:56 pm
The person installing the fireplace should be willing to test it for you. Basically, they’re going to make sure the exhaust gases go up the chimney, and that carbon monoxide is not generated in the house.
If the installer won’t do it, call the gas company and they may do it or put you in touch with someone who will check for carbon monoxide. This is very important, so get it done one way or another.
May 16th, 2008 at 9:25 pm
First I would like to tell you YES it should concern you and it is only right that you ask someone Else’s opinion? any time gas is involved make sure it’s O.K. I would call the gas Co. here where I live in Iowa they will come and check your gas lines (not sure of the chimney though) there are to many people who should have questioned there gas hook-ups and did not wake up the next morning. Don’t take a chance until you are sure. You have a nice day & Merry Christmas to everyone. Just an old man.
May 17th, 2008 at 9:21 am
THE NE LOGS SHOULD BE ” VENT FREE ” !!!!!
JUST LIKE A SPCE HEATER, COMPLETELY SAFE, CLOSE THE FLUE & LIGHT IT UP!
DON’T LISTEN TO THOSE WHO BLATHER! USE COMMON SENSE IF THE BOX SAYS VENT FREE, IT’S SAFE!
May 17th, 2008 at 6:45 pm
Every gas fireplace I have installed, where it was vented up the brick chimney, a liner was ran down the chimney and hooked to the fireplace.
Your gas company more and likely won’t come check it for you, and if they do, I’m sure there will be a nice fee on your next bill.
When in doubt read the installation manual, and follow the instructions they say, don’t try to cut corners to save money, unless you know for a fact it will keep you and your family safe.
You could also call the maker of the fireplace, they will have every answer you need.
Good Luck
May 21st, 2008 at 2:24 am
First of all make sure you have a certified installer for the gas fireplace. He should not be hooking it up for you if he can,t ensure that it is venting properly. A simple test that can be done after installation is what is known as a draw test Simply use the manufacturer;s installation book & perform the test as they describe. If you don,t have a book to go by. then start the fireplace let it run long enough to heat up, use a lighted match near the draft hood on your fireplace If the flame gets drawn into the draft hood you know the flue is working properly. If the flame blows out into the room shut it down if it checked by a qualified gas man.