B. Design and Installation Considerations
NOTICE: Check building codes prior to installation.
•Installation MUST comply with local, regional, state and national codes and regulations.
•Consult insurance carrier, local building inspector, fire officials or authorities having jurisdiction over restrictions, installation inspection and permits.
Before installing, determine the following:
•Where the fireplace is to be installed
•The vent system configuration to be used
•Gas supply piping
•Electrical wiring
•Framing and finishing details
•Whether optional
NOTICE: Junction box should be installed during initial setup to avoid major reconstruction.
C. Draft
Draft is the pressure difference needed to vent fireplaces successfully. When a fireplace is drafting successfully, all combustion byproducts are exiting the home through the chimney.
Considerations for successful draft include:
•Preventing negative pressure
•Location of fireplace and chimney
NOTICE: Hearth & Home Technologies assumes no responsibility for the improper performance of the fireplace system caused by:
•Inadequate draft due to environmental conditions
•Downdrafts
•Tight sealing construction of the structure
•Mechanical exhausting devices
•Improper location of the chimney
D. Negative Pressure
WARNING! Risk of Asphyxiation! Negative pressure can cause spillage of combustion fumes and soot. Fire must draft properly for safe operation.
Negative pressure results from the imbalance of air avail- able for the fireplace to operate properly. It can be stron- gest in lower levels of the house.
Causes include:
•Exhaust fans (kitchen, bath, etc.)
•Range hoods
•Combustion air requirements for furnaces, water heaters and other combustion appliances
•Clothes dryers
•Location of
•Imbalances of the HVAC air handling system
•Upper level air leaks such as:
-Recessed lighting
-Attic hatch
-Duct leaks
To minimize the effects of negative air pressure:
•Install the outside air kit with the intake facing prevailing winds during the heating season
•Ensure adequate outdoor air for all combustion appliances and exhaust equipment
•Ensure furnace and air conditioning return vents are not located in the immediate vicinity of the fireplace
•Avoid installing the fireplace near doors, walkways or small isolated spaces
•Recessed lighting should be a “sealed can” design
•Attic hatches weather stripped or sealed
•Attic mounted duct work and air handler joints and seams taped or sealed
•Basement installations should be avoided
NOTICE: Hearth & Home Technologies Inc. recommends the use of direct vent fireplaces in basements.
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