Gas fireplaces produce instant and inexpensive heat at the flick of a switch, unlike wood-burning fireplaces which are rather inefficient and produce a lot of smoke. Better yet, the direct exhaust gas fireplace does not need a sizable chimney, so it can be installed quickly and easily in most existing buildings. When dealing with gas, however, it is important, before installing a fireplace, to understand the steps to follow.
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Collect the Materials Needed for the Fireplace
Step 1. Determine where to install the fireplace
Before deciding where to place the fireplace, you need to consider a number of factors. The fireplace should embellish the room by enhancing its character and design, but at the time of installation it is also necessary to consider the most convenient position possible with respect to the gas pipe, electrical cables and exhaust pipe.
It is usually easier to install a freestanding gas fireplace in an exterior wall, where the exhaust pipe can be placed directly on the wall. Also remember that the pipe must be inserted into pins, another aspect to take into consideration when choosing the arrangement of the chimney
Step 2. Order a gas fireplace
You can choose between different types. It may be useful to go to a showroom, where you have the possibility to choose among the many types of fireplaces available.
When you order the chimney, you should also take all the pieces of the exhaust pipe. These include the actual pipe, the external pipe elements and the wall feedthrough
Step 3. Build or purchase a fireplace platform
The actual fireplace is quite small and it is dangerous to let it sit directly on the floor. In order not to put it directly in contact with the floor, it is necessary to build a platform. Use materials that match the room décor, but with which you can create a non-flammable surface in which to safely place the fireplace, such as ceramic tiles or bricks.
- Fireplace companies sometimes also sell prefabricated platforms. When you order the fireplace, you should also buy the platform.
- Read carefully all the manufacturer's instructions to understand how the platform should be installed and what material it can be made of.
- Also make sure there is enough free space around the fireplace for other objects, based on the manufacturer's directions. Make sure that the chimney is placed in a room away from flammable surfaces and that the exhaust pipe is installed correctly.
Part 2 of 3: Prepare the Space to Place the Fireplace
Step 1. Place the fireplace in its final location
When you have found the exact spot where to put the fireplace and after placing the platform, place it on it. Make sure you place it far enough away from any flammable material and that it fits well with the room's decor.
Step 2. Install the exhaust flue pipe above or behind the fireplace
Attach it as close to the wall socket as possible. By doing this you will realize the exact point where to drill the hole in the wall.
- Start by connecting a straight pipe to the top neck of the fireplace using stove cement. The gaskets to be used to completely fix the pipe to the fireplace neck change according to the type of fireplace. To do this, carefully follow the manufacturer's instructions.
- When you have determined exactly where to drill the hole for the drain pipe, draw a circle on the wall around the pipe with a pencil. Then make room by moving the platform and the chimney, so you can drill the hole comfortably and without clutter.
Step 3. Drill the hole for the direct ventilation system
This hole must be the same size as the wall hole you ordered with the fireplace. The wall feedthrough is designed to keep heat away from flammable materials in the wall. This is a very important element, because it minimizes the potential damage due to fireplace fire.
- Before breaking the wall, make sure there are no electrical wires or pipes inside, around the area where you are working. With the help of a drill, make a square hole following the trace you made on the wall. Remove the plaster, look inside the wall and check for any elements, such as pipes or cables, inside.
- Drill the hole in the wall from the inside out to check where the corners are on the outside of the wall. If the wall loop is square, it is easier to make a small hole in each corner.
- On the outside of the wall, use the appropriate tools to complete the hole you started inside.
Step 4. Frame the inside edges of the opening with wooden slats
The frame is used to create a base on which you will apply the loop to the wall. To know exactly the right materials and hole sizes, follow the manufacturer's directions.
Part 3 of 3: Install the Fireplace
Step 1. Insert the wall loop
Inside the house, apply high-temperature putty to the walls of the hole you made. Install the loop by pushing it against the hole, sealing it with putty and securing it with screws.
Step 2. Complete the direct ventilation system
Install the remaining pipes inside and outside your home.
- Place the fireplace on the platform and securely hook all the pipes between the wall loop and the fireplace, always referring to the manufacturer's instructions.
- Use high temperature putty to seal the area between the pipe and the fire door.
- Outside, install the external firebreak and drip tray using materials suitable for the exterior wall of your home.
Step 3. Contact an authorized company to install and connect the gas piping and electrical wiring
Depending on the location you have chosen for the fireplace, it may be necessary to install new electrical outlets and certainly a new gas pipe as well. If you do not have the skills to do it yourself, contact an authorized company.
Step 4. Insert an optional decorative frame around the fireplace
While many fireplaces do not need shelves or frames, adding decorative elements, such as a wooden frame, shelf, hearth or any other ornament, makes the fireplace more in tune with the room in which it is placed.
Remember to follow the manufacturer's instructions to find out how much space you need to leave between the frame and the fireplace. It is very important
Step 5. Finish the project
Replace the plaster you removed during installation and paint the frame and wall to match the rest of the room.
