How do I know if my gas fireplace has a flue?

Follow the gas line from beneath the logs to where it disappears in the wall or floor. If the gas is merely contained by a simple gas line, then the logs are vent free. If there is a small cylinder attached to the gas line, then the logs are vent-free.

Does cold air come through fireplace?

A fireplace is a huge source of drafts from the cold outdoors. A chimney can act as a wind tunnel even when the damper is closed, sucking cold air down into your home through the fireplace opening.

What does a fireplace flue look like open?

Another way to find out if the damper is open is to do a visual check. If your chimney has a traditional damper, all you need to do is shine a flashlight up the chimney. If you can see the sky, it is open. If you see closed metal or ceramic slats, you know it needs to be opened.

Can wood burning fireplace cause carbon monoxide?

Fireplaces and other fuel-burning appliances are the leading sources for exposure to carbon monoxide. Carbon monoxide is produced when fuels such as wood, gas, charcoal, kerosene, and oil are burned.

Can you get carbon monoxide from a fireplace?

Yes, gas fireplaces are one potential cause of carbon monoxide poisoning. An improperly maintained or ventilated gas fireplace can create incomplete combustion, creating carbon monoxide, and causing this toxic gas to linger—putting those inside at risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.

Do all gas fireplaces have a flue?

Do all gas fireplaces have a flue? Not all gas fireplace designs are the same. There are two significant types of gas fireplaces: vented and ventless (or vent-free). Yellow flame gas logs are primarily classified as vented.

Do all fireplaces have a flue?

Technically, a flue is any open vertical space in a chimney that allows smoke to escape the home from the firebox. But because every chimney’s flue must be lined, a chimney liner is usually referred to as the flue, as well. Every wood-burning or gas fireplace has a flue.

How do I find out where a draft is coming from?

Walk around with a lit candle or a stick of incense. If the flame flickers or burns out, a draft is near. Hang a plastic bag around a coat hanger, and place it around windows or doors that lead to the outside. If a draft flows in your home, the plastic bag blows.

How do I stop the cold air coming from my fireplace?

Keep cold air out Along with the common throat damper located just above the firebox, some homeowners add a top-sealing damper at the top of the chimney to double their protection. Another great way to block cold air is with a chimney balloon or plug.

Is my flue open or closed?

Visually Check If you have a throat damper, the closed damper immediately above your head will block your vision. You should be able to reach up and touch the closed damper. If you have a top-mount damper, check for daylight at the top of the flue. If you can’t see daylight at the top, the damper is closed.

How do you open a fireplace?

Opening up the fireplace

1. Examine the chimney breast. If the chimney has been blocked up correctly, there will be a vent in the wall just above the skirting board.
2. Removing the skirting board.
3. Uncover the hearth.
4. Tap the wall.
5. Cut the bricks.
6. Revealing the Fireplace.
7. Check the draught.
8. Chimney sweep.

How much does it cost to replace a gas fireplace flue?

If it already has a flue, the gas line will have to be capped, gas inserts removed, and the flue changed out by a professional. This is no DIY job because of the danger of smoke inhalation if it’s not done right. The cost to install a gas fireplace ranges from $2,280 to $4,030.

Can you put an electric fireplace in a masonry fireplace?

If you wish to place an electric firebox into a masonry fireplace, you’ll close off the chimney and the damper and add a frame and trim around the new firebox. Electric fireplaces are safe and more practical than traditional open-hearth fireplaces. Electric fireplaces run on 1,500 watts of electricity, which costs $0.15 per hour on average.

How to make a fireplace look like a house?

1. Paint an existing fireplace 2. Add floor to ceiling tile 3. Use cement 4. Add shiplap 5. Stenciling I’m working on coming up with a design for our current fireplace situation.

What should I do if I have a fire in my fireplace?

First, always double-check that your fire extinguisher, smoke detector, and carbon monoxide detector are each in working order (check those batteries!). Remove anything flammable within three feet of the fireplace in case stray sparks escape the hearth, and use a fireplace screen as well.