If you’re a very skilled and versatile home handyperson, installation of a gas fireplace may be something you’re comfortable undertaking. But for most people, the combination of skills required makes this something best left to a professional installer. Most fireplace stores either employ their own installers or can arrange for a qualified person to do the work -- remember that the installation company must be licensed, bonded and insured.
There are three basic components of a gas fireplace installation -- gas piping, installation of the fireplace and flue system and, if your fireplace has a fan and a thermostat, electrical wiring for the installation of a plug, switch and wiring for the thermostat.
Gas pipe size is determined by the size and location of the fireplace, and must be done in approved, threaded black metal gas piping. A shutoff valve is required at the fireplace, and the type, location and accessibility of the valve is specified by the building codes.
The codes and the manufacturer’s specifications also dictate the type and size of the hearth that the fireplace sits on, as well as the clearances between the fireplace and any combustible materials behind and to the sides of the unit. Gas fireplaces also utilize specific types and sizes of flue piping, and in most instances they cannot be vented into an existing masonry chimney or utilize existing woodstove flue pipes.
In virtually all jurisdictions, gas fireplace installations require a mechanical permit for the gas piping, as well as a permit for the fireplace and flue installation. Don’t skip the permit process -- in addition to being required by law and helping to ensure that the installation is safe and proper through inspection by an impartial third party, failure to obtain the proper permits may void your homeowner’s insurance policy in the event of a fire. Consult with your dealer and the local building department for complete information before any installation work begins.
