Rear Direct Vent Fireplace

Rear Direct Vent Fireplace: Essential Aspects to Consider

Rear direct vent fireplaces are gaining popularity as a cost-effective and energy-efficient alternative to traditional fireplaces. These fireplaces draw air from outside of the house, which eliminates the need for a chimney or flue. The air is then heated and vented back into the room, providing warmth and ambiance without the mess and hassle of burning wood.

If you are considering installing a rear direct vent fireplace, there are several essential aspects to keep in mind to ensure optimal performance and safety.

1. Venting Requirements

Proper venting is crucial for the safe and efficient operation of a rear direct vent fireplace. The vent pipe must be installed according to the manufacturer's specifications, which will vary depending on the model and location of the fireplace.

The vent pipe should be sized correctly and should extend vertically from the fireplace to the outside of the house. It is important to ensure that the vent pipe is not obstructed by any obstacles, such as trees or other structures.

2. Combustion Air

Rear direct vent fireplaces require a constant supply of combustion air to operate properly. This air is drawn from outside of the house and is used to fuel the fire. The combustion air inlet should be located in the same room as the fireplace and should be sized according to the manufacturer's specifications.

It is important to keep the combustion air inlet clear of obstructions, such as furniture or curtains, to ensure that the fireplace has a sufficient supply of fresh air.

3. Fuel Type

Rear direct vent fireplaces can be fueled by natural gas or propane. The type of fuel you choose will depend on the availability and cost in your area.

Natural gas is typically more cost-effective than propane, but it is not available in all areas. Propane is a more portable fuel that can be used in areas where natural gas is not available.

4. Heat Output

The heat output of a rear direct vent fireplace is measured in British thermal units (BTUs). The BTU output will determine how much heat the fireplace can produce and will vary depending on the model and size of the fireplace.

It is important to choose a fireplace with a BTU output that is appropriate for the size of your room. A fireplace with too low a BTU output will not be able to adequately heat the room, while a fireplace with too high a BTU output may overheat the room.

5. Safety Features

Rear direct vent fireplaces are equipped with a number of safety features to ensure safe operation. These features include:

A flame sensor that automatically shuts off the gas supply if the flame goes out.
A safety screen that prevents sparks and embers from escaping the fireplace.
A thermostat that controls the temperature of the fire.

It is important to ensure that all of the safety features are functioning properly before using the fireplace.

Additional Considerations

In addition to the essential aspects listed above, there are several other factors to consider when choosing a rear direct vent fireplace:

Style: Rear direct vent fireplaces come in a variety of styles, from traditional to contemporary, to match any décor.
Features: Some models of rear direct vent fireplaces offer additional features, such as remote controls, fans, and timers.
Cost: The cost of a rear direct vent fireplace will vary depending on the model, size, and features.

By carefully considering all of these factors, you can choose a rear direct vent fireplace that will provide warmth, comfort, and ambiance to your home for many years to come.