Does a fireplace need a fresh air intake?

Fire requires oxygen, so any fireplace with real fire from a source such as wood or gas requires a renewable supply of incoming air. This is often referred to as “fresh air,” though the IRC also calls it “combustion air.”

What is combustion air for fireplace?

Combustion Air Ensure that a fireplace located in conditioned space is vented to the outdoors and supplied with adequate combustion and ventilation air according to the manufacturer’s installation instructions.

How does a fresh air intake work on a fireplace?

In a direct vent gas appliance, fresh air is drawn from the outdoors into the hearth unit, and expelled air is sent outside via a flue system that terminates outside. Most direct vent gas fireplaces are vented to the outdoors horizontally (through the wall), but they can also be routed vertically (through the roof).

Why does my fireplace have an outside vent?

An outside air source is a vent that provides fresh air to feed the fire.

Where does a fireplace get air from?

Hot air from the fire rises through the chimney, making room for fresh oxygenated air to enter the fire. This flow of air into the fire and up through chimney is necessary to keep the dangerous gases produced by the fire from filling the house.

Why do fireplaces need outside air?

An outside air kit provides additional combustion air to the fireplace that feeds the fire with oxygen from outside your home. This will help the performance on any fireplace installed in tightly-constructed or well-insulated home.

What is the vent on the outside of my fireplace for?

What are the vents on the front of my fireplace?

A fully open vent allows the smoke to travel up the chimney. It also allows fresh air to feed the fire and keep it burning.

What is the side vent in my fireplace?

Side Vent. A side vent fireplace, aka co-axial direct vent, is vented horizontally through a wall to the outside. Zero-clearance direct vent fireplaces are used in homes without existing fireplaces and chimneys.

Do fireplaces circulate air?

Having your fireplace located on the main floor in a centralized location optimizes heat. Hot air rises, but sometimes it needs a little bit of help. If you have a forced air heating and cooling system, turn on the fan and use it to circulate the air that is created by your fireplace.