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What is a Zero Clearance fireplace? A Zero Clearance fireplace that can be built into a wooden structure. A Masonry fireplace must be built in a masonry structure. Zero Clearance fireplace does not require any structural support for the unit or chimney. A Masonry fireplace would require a footing for the weight of the masonry. Most factory built fireplaces are zero clearance. Does Zero Clearance mean that combustible materials can touch the fireplace? No. Each unit is tested individually for its clearances. Very few units actually have a zero clearance to combustibles. What types of gas units are available? Vent Free (Room vented)
Does the vent pipe have a clearance requirement? Yes. It will vary depending on the pipe, the unit and the orientation (horizontal or vertical). Can I put a thermostat on a gas fireplace? Yes. There are certain types of units that are called "Furnace rated". These fireplaces are tested to the same standard as a furnace. Therefore, these units are ok to use with a thermostat. Can I use a remote control for my gas fireplace? Yes. However, they are not as reliable as some other remote controls available for other products. Can I build my fireplace flush with the exterior wall of my home? Yes. There are some design and installation considerations. The exterior three walls of the enclosure should be built the same way as the exterior walls of the home. They should be insulated, sheet rocked, and sided. A false ceiling should also be built at the normal ceiling height and insulated to the same R-value. Finally the face wall of the fireplace should not be insulated. How far can I run the vent pipe horizontally on my gas fireplace? This will vary from unit to unit and manufacturer to manufacturer. How far out of the roof does my chimney need to be on my wood fireplace? The guideline is the 3-2-10 Rule:
The formula is Chimney Height = (roof pitch) x (distance to peak) +2 ex. 4/12 = .334 x 10 = 3.34 + 2 = 5.34 or 5 1/2 feet. Can I put a 90◦ elbow on a wood fireplace? No. The maximum degree of offset is 30◦. Wood Stoves can have a 90◦ elbow because the pipe is exposed and can be removed for cleaning. Is there a bad location for a wood fireplace? Since a key component of wood fireplaces working correctly is the chimney location, there are some scenarios that are not favorable. Try to avoid putting wood burning appliances on the low side of a vaulted ceiling and in basements. Also if your home is new or being remodeled, an outside air source for the fireplace is mandatory. |
