Constructing The Appliance Chase - Hearth & Home B41L-AU Installation Manual

C. Constructing the Appliance Chase
NOTICE: Install appliance on hard metal or wood surfaces
extending full width and depth. DO NOT install directly on
carpeting, vinyl, or any combustible material other than
wood.
WARNING! Risk of Fire! Maintain specified air space
clearances to appliance and vent pipe:
• Insulation and other materials must be secured to prevent
accidental contact.
• The chase must be properly blocked to prevent blown
insulation or other combustibles from entering and
making contact with fireplace or chimney.
• Failure to maintain airspace may cause overheating and
a fire.
A chase is a vertical box-like structure built to enclose the
gas appliance and/or its vent system. In cooler climates
the vent should be enclosed inside the chase.
NOTICE: Treatment of ceiling firestops and wall shield
firestops and construction of the chase may vary with the
type of building. These instructions are not substitutes
for the requirements of local building codes. Therefore,
you MUST check local building codes to determine the
requirements to these steps.
NOTICE: When installing a sprinkler head in a fireplace
chase, it is recommended to use a sprinkler head with a
sprinkler activation temperature classified as Extra High.
Keep sprinkler head away from vent and chimney.
Chases should be constructed and insulated in the same
manner as the thermal envelope of the home based on
the code requirements for that climate zone to prevent air
leakage and draft problems. The chase is an extension of
the building thermal envelope.
To further prevent drafts and air leakage, the wall shield
and ceiling firestops should be sealed with caulk with a
minimum of 300 ºF (149 ºC) continuous exposure rating
to seal gaps. Gas line holes and other openings should
be sealed with caulk with a minimum of 300 ºF (149 ºC)
continuous exposure rating or stuffed with unfaced insula-
tion. If the appliance is being installed on a cement surface, a
layer of plywood may be placed underneath to prevent con-
ducting cold up into the room.
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Hearth & Home Technologies • B41L-AU Installation Manual • 2570-980 Rev. C • 7/20