Unlike wood burning fireplaces, which can be messy and ineffective, gas fireplaces create instant, economical heat at the flip of a switch. With a fireplace with direct ventilation, it's even easier. It does not require a chimney, so it can be installed in an already finished building. Since you will be working with gas, it is important to know how to install a gas fireplace before starting the installation process.
Steps
Step 1. Make a stand
The fireplaces themselves are quite small and it is dangerous to place them directly on the floor. To prevent the fireplace from standing on the floor, you will need to make a platform for it. In order to organize the space needed for the fireplace according to the manufacturer's instructions, use materials that are compatible with the interior of the room.
Step 2. Place the fireplace in the desired location
When you find the spot in the room where you want to place the fireplace and place the platform, place the fireplace on the platform.
Step 3. Install the pipes
- Start by attaching a straight pipe to the starting collar on the fireplace with oven cement. Different fireplaces require different gaskets to connect the pipe to the collar. Follow the instructions of the fireplace manufacturer for gaskets.
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Install a Gas Fireplace Step 3 - Then, attach a 90 degree bend and another straight pipe to the first straight pipe.
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Install a Gas Fireplace Step 3
Step 4. Make holes for the direct vent system
- With a pencil, draw a circle around the second straight pipe and move the platform along with the fireplace to the side.
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Install a Gas Fireplace Step 4 - Use a drywall saw to carefully cut a square hole around the outline you have drawn. Border the hole with slats.
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Install a Gas Fireplace Step 4 - Using a drill, punch holes in the outer wall to see where the corners are located.
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Install a Gas Fireplace Step 4 - Using the appropriate tools, punch the same hole in the outside wall as you marked on the inside.
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Install a Gas Fireplace Step 4 - Inside your home, apply sealant around the hole you made. Install the square fireproof insulator by pressing it into the sealant and screwing it tight.
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Install a Gas Fireplace Step 4
Step 5. Complete the ventilation system
- Slide the straight piece of pipe that you used to outline the hole earlier through the hole on the outside.
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Install a Gas Fireplace Step 5 - Use a heat resistant sealant to seal around the pipe and insulator.
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Install a Gas Fireplace Step 5 - Outside, install the outer insulator and vane using the necessary tools.
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Install a Gas Fireplace Step 5
Step 6. Hire a licensed technician to install and connect the gas and electricity lines
Depending on where you installed your fireplace, you may need to run new power wires and install new outlets, and most likely you will need to make a new gas line. If you don't have the skills to do it yourself, hire specialists.
Step 7. Make a shelf
A decorated wood shelf, including edging, fireplace trim and any other decorations you want, will help the fireplace and its surroundings blend in with the interior of the room. Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for organizing the space between the fireplace and the frame around it. Screw the frame to the wall.
Step 8. Complete the project
Put back any removed drywall and paint or otherwise treat the frame and wall to match the interior of the room.