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gas fire

jgale's picture

gas fire (post #175761)

jgale on Thu, 11/11/2004 - 20:40
in

Hi.  I am SO glad to have found this web site!  We live in a 100-yr old row house in Philadelphia.  Our house is the end of the row so we have one free wall.  We woould like to install a gas fire in the living room.  There is an existing fireplace that was originally gas, but now empty.  It is located against the shared wall.  I am wondering whether there must be an existing chmmney above it that we could use.  If not, we have been thinking about ventless gas systems.  Seems strange to me and I was wondering if anyone has any experience with these.  Thanks Jessi

-A +A

(post #175761, reply #1 of 1)

by patmcg in reply to jgale [original] on Tue, 11/16/2004 - 18:27

Used to have an 1870's home in Philadelphia. I installed a wood stove, and, in the process, learned a lot about 100 YO city chimneys. Sometimes, for example, joists may be supported by pockets in the chimney masonry.


I would not use an existing, 100 YO chimney to vent a gas fireplace without relining. True, flue temperature is not much of an issue there, but there is potential to leak CO into your living spaces. Also, although I have no experience with ventless gas logs, etc., I am not impressed with what I've heard about them from acquaintances who do.


A thimble through your free wall might be the easiest, cheapest, and safest installation for you. Could your fireplace go there? Also, with what gas costs in Philadelphia, you might want to look at a good, cast iron gas "wood" stove. You will use the fuel more efficiently that way.