How to Install a Natural Gas Ventless Fireplace

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By ptgarcia60
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Ventless Fireplace

A ventless fireplace is a great addition to your master bedroom for ambiance or in the basement or add-on room for warmth.
The best part is, you don't have to worry about cutting holes in the ceiling for a vent pipe.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Ventless Fireplace
Black Pipe & Fittings
Joint Compound
Pressure Gauge
Soapy Water
Pipe Wrench & Crescent Wrench

Step 1

Select the location for your fireplace. Plot the route of the pipe to connect with an existing natural gas line and take good measurements.
Step 2

There are many styles of ventless fireplaces. Lowes, Home Depot, Ace Hardware ad other large hardware stores will have a good selection.
Step 3

Natural Gas Black Pipe

The hardware store will also have the black pipe in the diameter you need to run the natural gas to the unit. They will cut and thread he pipe as needed usually free of charge.
Step 4

Thread the pipe together from the fireplace to the gas source being sure to use plenty of joint compound for a good seal. The plumbing department sales rep can tell you which type of compound is the best for your job. (Don't attach your pipe to the existing gas line just yet!)
Step 5

Before you tap into the existing gas line, be sure to close the nearest valve. You will probably need to install a "T" fitting to tap your new line into the existing line.
Step 6

Pressure Gauge

Attach a pressure gauge with an air hose fitting to the end of your new pipe. You can use a bicycle pump to pump up the pressure to at least 15 psi. Watch the gauge to see if you lose pressure. If you do, you'll need to track down your leak.
Step 7

To find a leak, apply soapy water to the joints one by one and look for bubbles to appear. Tighten the pipe or fitting until the bubbles stop forming. Re-test as needed until the line holds steady pressure for at least ten minutes. (Good time for a break anyway)
Step 8

Pipe Joint Union

When you are sure there are no leaks, remove the pressure gauge and attach the line to your existing line. To make a male to male connection, you will need a Joint Union. Half of the union will attach to a small male line from the "T" fitting and the other half attaches to your new line. Connect the two halves with the large nut and you're done.