Fireplace Ventilation

Fireplaces and fireplace inserts require venting through the roof, typically through a chimney. Vent system options can include direct venting and B-venting. Direct vent fireplaces use two chambers: one to draw outdoor air into the firebox for combustion, and another to expel the exhaust, gases, and by-products outside. This method works for both wood-burning and gas fireplaces, but wood stoves and fireplaces must use this method.

B-vent fireplaces, also called natural venting, draw air from indoors and vent the by-products through the roof using a b-vent pipe. B-vents must mount vertically. They typically allow for a bigger flame compared to a direct vent fireplace, however, B-vent fireplaces operate less efficiently than direct vents. This type of fireplace venting only works to vent gas fireplaces.

A fan or blower releases warm air after cool air gets drawn into the lower chamber and circulates around the firebox. The central burner emits radiant heat as well. The vent terminal mounts outside and connects to the fireplace indoors. The venting exits from either the top or back of the fireplace. This system also uses a rear exhaust vent.

Direct venting represents the most flexible option as it can go up, down, and around most objects such as staircases. The direct venting system eliminates problems posed by chimneys, such as drafts and cold spots. It also maintains indoor air quality, improves efficiency, and distributes heat evenly. This system can operate without electricity, using batteries or a self-generating system that powers the blower and other accessories.

HomElectrical sells many different types of venting accessories for direct vent and B-vent fireplaces.

A power vent adaptor kit works for non-standard venting configurations, allowing the vent to “snake” around obstacles.

A flex vent kit includes aluminum liners-inlets/exhaust and reducers.

DuraVent adaptors allows Napoleon fireplaces and stoves to connect to direct vent pipe.

A gravity hot air vent distributes heat to an adjoining room by way of vents, which eliminates the need for an additional blower. It includes an air vent, radiation shield, grill, and manual damper assembly.

A coupler connects two flexible direct vent liners.

A B-vent adaptor kit converts a B-vent gas stove to work with direct vent components.

A stand-off finishes silhouette terminals.

A starter collar allows connection of a fireplace to an air-cooled chimney.

A vent pipe collar helps maintain a weather resistant seal between the pipe and flashing.

A restrictor plate reduces the flow of air for increased fuel efficacy.

Air housing for air cooled chimney provides a safe escape for fireplace smoke.

A flexible liner lines vents and helps protect them.

An outside combustion air extension kit enables a fireplace to pull air in from outside the house instead of the room. This helps increase efficiency. It includes the vent, couplers, and hardware.

A universal heat management kit moves warm air from the fireplace enclosure to another part of the room. It includes grills, vent boots, a flexible duct, and collar assembly.

A screen for silhouette terminal protects against accidental touching of the terminal.