Our Process
How gas fireplaces are installed in Slavia
B-vent gas fireplace installation rules
A B-vent fireplace relies on natural draft, so its vent has firm rules. One maker's B-vent manual requires the draft hood to be in the same atmospheric pressure zone as the combustion air inlet, at least 8 feet of vertical rise measured between the unit's top and the termination's top, no more than two 90 degree elbows and a rise of at least 1/4 inch per foot on any horizontal run.
The fuel gas code adds that a Type B vent terminates at least 5 feet above the highest connected draft hood (503.6.6). Our pros check that your Slavia home can give a B-vent unit the vertical run it needs before recommending one.
Gas fireplace vent caps above walkways and driveways
Exhaust and condensation should not land on people. Table 503.8 requires a cap to be at least 7 feet above a paved sidewalk or driveway on public property and keeps it off public walkways where condensate or vapor could cause a nuisance or hazard. One maker's manual also rules out a cap directly above a paved path shared between two homes.
On a side yard or a narrow lot, those rules can move the fireplace. Our specialists check the path outside your Slavia home before the location is settled, so the cap never ends up blowing into a walkway.
Keeping a new gas fireplace dry
Gas fireplace controls do not tolerate water. One maker's manual says to keep the appliance dry because water may damage its controls, and a B-vent manual says not to use a fireplace if any part has been under water, and to call a qualified service person instead.
During installation the unit stays covered until the vent is sealed and the chase or wall is closed. If your Slavia home ever takes on water near the fireplace, leave the unit off and call us before relighting it.
Carbon monoxide alarms with a new gas fireplace
The NFPA advises installing and maintaining carbon monoxide alarms and venting all fuel-burning equipment outside. One gas fireplace manual describes early carbon monoxide symptoms as flu-like, with headaches, dizziness and nausea, and says anyone who feels them should get fresh air at once and have the fireplace inspected.
A vented fireplace installed to its manual keeps exhaust outside, and an alarm is the backup. If an alarm sounds, get everyone out of your Slavia home and call 911 from outside. The fireplace stays off until it has been inspected and the cause found.
