Proper Venting of a Fireplace

The draft problem with most fireplaces in tightly-built homes is that the fire lacks sufficient air for combustion unless a window is open. Sometimes this produces smoke indoors. Fireplaces in older homes didn't have this problem because leaks around windows, doors and framing provided plenty of air for combustion. A fireplace with an inadequate air supply can be dangerous. As a fire is starting or going out, it may back up dangerous carbon monoxide into your home. A fire with a strong draft can also interfere with the natural venting of a gas-fired water heater or furnace, causing a back draft of combustion fumes into the home. Any gas-burning appliance vented by gravity up a chimney can have such a problem. One good solution is to install small fresh-air vents that bring outside air directly in the firebox. A qualified brick mason, fireplace contractor, or chimney sweep must install such a system; it is definitely not a do-it- yourself project. The vent must penetrate an outside wall and the side or front of the fireplace. The vent may also need to be combined with fireplace doors. Remember that most natural fireplaces are heat losers when operated in cold weather. Most of the heat goes up the chimney. Fireplaces do work well at removing excessive moisture levels in the winter because they draw lots of air into your home for ventilation (provided a window is open!)
I Pull Out All The Stops To Sell Your Home
Lonnie Snyder
REALTOR®
Keller Williams Realty Southeast Sound
Phone: 206-406-2710
Email:
snyder@kw.com
Website: http://www.callsnyder.com/
Blogsite: http://renton-real-estate.blogspot.com/
Lonnie Snyder is a full time real estate agent and REALTOR® with Keller Williams Realty specializing in Residential Real Estate for buyers and sellers in Washington’s Kent, Renton, Newcastle and South Bellevue.Oh, By The Way. . . . . I AM NEVER TOO BUSY FOR REFERRALS.

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