Vermont Casting 2080 Installation, Requirements for Existing Fireplaces, WinterWarm Small Insert

WinterWarm Small Insert

Installation

Installing the WinterWarm Small Insert into an existing masonry or factory-built fireplace is an effective way to add an efficient heater to your home. The existing fire- place and chimney must meet certain requirements.

Requirements for Existing Fireplaces

The WinterWarm Small Insert is listed for installation within a properly built masonry or heat circulating, ma- sonry-type fireplace that is constructed in accordance with the requirements of recognized building codes. A heat-circulating masonry-type fireplace must conform to building code standards for masonry fireplaces, and must consist of a factory-built metal firebox with air circulation pathways that are surrounded by masonry materials. Air circulation pathways must not be blocked by the insert or surround panels.

The fireplace and chimney must be clean and structur- ally sound. Have them inspected by a qualified pro- fessional chimney sweep, a mason, or your Vermont Castings’ Authorized Dealer before the WinterWarm Small Insert is installed. Any deterioration (cracks, loose mortar or loose bricks) must be repaired.

Codes may permit removal of the damper in order to make a positive connection for the vent between the firebox and the chimney. However, the fireplace should not be modified in any way without first checking with your local building inspector or fire marshal. Provision should be made to restore the fireplace to its original condition if the insert is removed. Do not remove bricks or mortar that may jeopardize the compliance of the fireplace with local building codes.

The WinterWarm Small Insert is also listed for installa- tion in tested and listed factory-built fireplaces. Listings for factory-built fireplaces include meeting standards for both the firebox and chimney. Review the owner’s manual, and inspect the fireplace for metal tags or labels which give information concerning installation of inserts into the factory-built fireplace. Codes may permit removal of the damper in order to install a chimney liner. Codes may also permit removal of external trim pieces which do not affect the operation of the unit, as long as the pieces are stored on or within the fireplace for re-assembly if the insert is removed. Air flow within and around the fireplace shall not be altered (louvers or cooling air inlet or outlet ports may not be blocked). Louvered surrounds are permitted. Again, check with

local authorities before making any modifications.

Requirements for Existing Chimneys

Chimney requirements differ for the U.S. and Canada. Specifications for each are listed below. Connect the insert to the chimney in accordance with local codes and the requirements of the listing agency as specified in this manual.

Chimney Height / U.S. and Canada

Chimney height should be no less than 15’ (4.5m) above the hearth and no more than 35’ (10.5m).

The chimney should extend at least 3’ (914m) above the highest point where it passes through a roof, and at least 2’ (610mm) higher than any portion of a building

within 10’ (3m). (Fig. 2)
	0 To 10'
	2' Min. 3'	0 To 10'
	Min.
		2' Min. 3'
		Min.
	Reference	AC617
	Point
Fig. 2	The 2’-3’-10’ rule for chimneys.

Do not connect your WinterWarm small insert to a chimney flue serving another appliance.

U.S.

In the U.S. (ANSI/NFPA 211, 1988), when installed in a masonry fireplace:

•A connector must extend from the flue collar to the flue liner.

•The cross sectional area of the flue must be less than or equal to three times the area of the flue collar. If larger, the chimney must be re-lined.

•Means must be provided to prevent room air passing to the chimney cavity.

•Provision must be made for removal of the insert to clean the chimney flue.

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