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  1. #1
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    Default Clearance around vent gas fireplace

    I know the code says you must have a hearth 8x16 or 12x20 depending on the size of the opening of the firebox. The fireplace in question is only 24x30 so the smaller hearth would apply. I know the code says you must not have combustibles within 6 inches of the firebox.

    My question is there any exception for gas fireplaces with sealed glass fronts? The fireplace in question only has 4 inches of clearance to combustibles and the hearth is not wide enough BUT it is a gas burning fireplace with a sealed glass front. No embers or sparks would be able to exit the fireplace to ignite surrounding stuff.

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  2. #2
    David Banks's Avatar
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    Default Re: Clearance around vent gas fireplace

    Quote Originally Posted by Bruce Ramsey View Post
    I know the code says you must have a hearth 8x16 or 12x20 depending on the size of the opening of the firebox. The fireplace in question is only 24x30 so the smaller hearth would apply. I know the code says you must not have combustibles within 6 inches of the firebox.

    My question is there any exception for gas fireplaces with sealed glass fronts? The fireplace in question only has 4 inches of clearance to combustibles and the hearth is not wide enough BUT it is a gas burning fireplace with a sealed glass front. No embers or sparks would be able to exit the fireplace to ignite surrounding stuff.
    Did you find a Data Plate? That should have all clearance issues for you.
    If not try to find make and model on web. (Installation Guide)


  3. #3
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    Default Re: Clearance around vent gas fireplace

    Not knowing what model that is, I picked one ( http://www.heatilator.com/downloads/...s/4055_187.PDF ) and the clearances in your photo seem to be okay to it.

    See pages:
    18 for alcove installation clearances
    19 for combustible flooring in front of it

    Go here ( Gas Fireplaces - Direct Vent Fireplace Models - Heatilator Fireplaces ) and click on the model that is.

    Jerry Peck
    Construction/Litigation/Code Consultant - Retired
    www.AskCodeMan.com

  4. #4
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    Default Re: Clearance around vent gas fireplace

    Thanks! Just what I needed.

    "The Code is not a peak to reach but a foundation to build from."

  5. #5
    Richard Pultar's Avatar
    Richard Pultar Guest

    Default Re: Clearance around vent gas fireplace

    this is not a fireplace .....it is a gas appliance..
    it does need some clearances per specs
    it gets a vent or not per specs
    it does not get a chimney
    the only reason for a hearth on the floor is for decoration


  6. #6
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    Default Re: Clearance around vent gas fireplace

    Quote Originally Posted by Richard Pultar View Post
    this is not a fireplace .....it is a gas appliance..
    Which in this case is a gas fireplace.

    It is not a "masonry fireplace", but that gas appliance can be called a gas fireplace.

    From the IRC:
    - SECTION G2434 (604)
    - - VENTED GAS FIREPLACES
    - - - (DECORATIVE APPLIANCES)


    it does need some clearances per specs
    Unless the specs say -0- clearance. Such as that shown in the MMI I posted the link to - see page 19.

    Jerry Peck
    Construction/Litigation/Code Consultant - Retired
    www.AskCodeMan.com

  7. #7
    Richard Pultar's Avatar
    Richard Pultar Guest

    Default Re: Clearance around vent gas fireplace

    When I see a gas fireplace they have always had hearths. Or they were elevated . I always look at mfg spec's ,I get a kick out of the different requirements for what appears to be the same condition. What do you think about that picture with that fireplace set back in that alcove made by the bookcases on both sides.My gut reaction is that the radiant heat to the sides is hairy. I can't remember ever reading about projection distance clearances to the opening of the fire box. I never saw anything like that picture. Thanks for the info


  8. #8
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    Default Re: Clearance around vent gas fireplace

    Quote Originally Posted by Jerry Peck View Post
    Not knowing what model that is, I picked one ( http://www.heatilator.com/downloads/...s/4055_187.PDF ) and the clearances in your photo seem to be okay to it.

    See pages:
    18 for alcove installation clearances
    19 for combustible flooring in front of it
    Quote Originally Posted by Jerry Peck View Post
    Unless the specs say -0- clearance. Such as that shown in the MMI I posted the link to - see page 19.
    Quote Originally Posted by Richard Pultar View Post
    What do you think about that picture with that fireplace set back in that alcove made by the bookcases on both sides.
    Richard,

    Did you click on the link I provided?

    Did you go to page 19 as I stated?

    That should answer your question about alcoves.

    You will find that the dimension for G is 1" wider wider (i.e., 1/2" each side) than dimension A. To know what I am referring to as G and A, you will need to click on that link, go to page 19, and review that drawing.

    Jerry Peck
    Construction/Litigation/Code Consultant - Retired
    www.AskCodeMan.com

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