Hearth and Home Technologies NorthStar-GT Getting Started, Design and Installation Considerations

2 Getting Started

A. Design and Installation Considerations	• Upper level air leaks: recessed lighting, attic hatch
	opening, duct leaks.

CAUTION

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 about restrictions, installation inspection and permits.

When planning a fireplace installation, it is necessary to de- termine the following information before installing:

•Where the fireplace is to be installed. See Sections 3 and 4.

•The vent system configuration to be used. See Sections

5 and 6.

•Electrical wiring. See Section 3.

•Framing and finishing details. See Sections 3, 6 and 8.

•Whether optional accessories are desired. See Section 12.

Draft is the pressure difference needed to vent fireplaces successfully. Considerations for successful draft include:

•Preventing negative pressure

•Location of fireplace and chimney

WARNING

Asphyxiation Risk

Negative pressure can cause spillage of combustion fumes and soot. Fire needs to draft properly for safe operation.

B. Negative Pressure

Negative pressure results from the imbalance of air avail- able for the fireplace to operate properly. Causes for this imbalance include:

•Exhaust fans (kitchen, bath, etc.).

•Range hoods.

•Combustion air requirements for furnaces, water heaters and other combustion appliances.

•Clothes dryers.

•Location of return-air vents to furnace or air conditioning.

•Imbalances of the HVAC air handling system.

To minimize the effects of negative air pressure, the follow- ing must be considered:

•Install the outside air kit.

•Ensure adequate outdoor air is supplied for 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.

Location of the fireplace and chimney will affect performance. As shown in Figure 7.1, on page 7, the chimney should:

•Be installed through the warm airspace enclosed by the building envelope. This helps to produce more draft, especially during lighting and die-down of the fire.

•Penetrate the highest part of the roof. This minimizes the effects of wind turbulence.

•Be located away from trees, adjacent structures, uneven roof lines and other obstructions.

Offsets can restrict draft so their use should be minimized. Consider the fireplace location relative to floor and ceiling and attic joists.

The NorthStar Fireplace requires a minimum flue draft of -0.10 inches of water column on High, and -0.04 inches of water column on Low, as measured with a draft meter. Most dealers have draft meters available to measure your flue draft if you suspect a problem.

If the fire is difficult to start, and smoke spills out of the door, or you find it hard to establish and maintain a moderately high burn rate, then the flue draft is too low and corrective measures must be taken.

NOTE: Cold air infiltration can cause frosting on glass.

Page Heat & Glo • NorthStar EPA Fireplace • 480-1081C September 1, 2008