Gas Fireplace Exhaust Hood Location

[Nick Ostrowski]

No installation instructions were near this fireplace but I don't know what to make of the location of this exhaust hood. Now the adjacent window and door should be closed when the fireplace in on but....................

I don't like the location of the outlet to the hood. Looks like a burn hazard.

Thoughts?

[Michael Thomas]

Some of those have surprisingly small clearance requirements, especially if they have the auxiliary shield installed. I've learned the hard way to check the manufacturer's instructions. What did that label say? Everything else aside, there is a good chance that any extension cord attached to that box is going to be in contact with the exhaust vent termination or directly in the path of exhaust gases.

Also, ideally both should be on mounting blocks, not screwed to the siding... not an expansion problem on a wall that short, but still a potential water entry.

[John Arnold]

Here's a previous thread that may be helpful:
http://www.inspectionnews.net/home_inspection/fireplaces-chimneys-solid-fuel-burning-appliances-home-inspection-commercial-inspection/2160-direct-vent-located-below-bedroom-window.html

[Dom D'Agostino]

What's the BTU rating of the appliance? It can change the clearance requirements.

It looks like the termination is too close to the paved patio/walkway.

Here is a sample termination clearance sheet.

Dom.

[Jerry Peck]

Don't forget that the bubble type receptacle cover is "combustible material". The box, if not metallic, is also, as is the receptacle itself and the insulation on the wiring.

So is vinyl siding.

[Bob Harper]

get the model and serial number off the unit then contact Majestic tech support. If you email this pic or fax a drawing they can rule on the electrical outlet cover and window proximity. However, the listed instructions do state the clearances so you should be able to locate that info. online.

If that termination is lapped over the siding, they do not have proper clearance. If it is cut into the siding, it should be boxed in with J channel. Either way, it is improper.

Nick, I would refer to this as the "vent termination".

Bob

[Nick Ostrowski]

Thanks guys.

[Stephen Houmard]

I hate these things. We have them in about every new home here in Charleston...no one uses them.