Product Code Issues Natural gas hearth products sold and used in the U.S.
are covered by a variety of certification standards, building codes, and local
requirements. For additional code/permit information, please contact your
local code
authority. Washington Gas recommends that you ask your
fireplace dealer to confirm that the product you choose meets the approval
of the code authority in your area.
Permit Requirements Adding a natural gas appliance to your home requires
a permit. Always request a copy of the permit from your installer to make sure
your natural gas product is installed in compliance with local codes and regulations.
All installations should be inspected by the county/city that issued the
installation permit.
Installing a Split Meter The existing natural gas piping in your house may
not be able to handle the additional load of a new natural gas fireplace. New
piping may need to be installed, properly connecting your new appliance
directly with your gas meter. Your installer may recommend a split meter
installation and there is a charge to "split" the meter.
Important Safety Requirements
- Installation of natural gas logs must be in a woodburning vented
fireplace that has a working flue constructed of noncombustible
materials.
- If combustion air is drawn from the home (conventional venting
or unvented products), at least 50 cubic feet of room volume is
required for every 1000 BTUs of burner input. This applies to the
sum of all equipment burners drawing combustion air from the space.
- When a vented natural gas log set is installed, the chimney dampers
must be permanently opened with a special damper clip (except for
unvented products).
- A fireplace screen or glass door should be installed with all vented
natural gas logs and fireplaces (except for unvented products).
- When using an existing chimney for venting, a flue liner is needed.
In addition, you should plan to have your chimney cleaned before
installation.
- In the Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission jurisdictions (Montgomery
and Prince George's counties), a Carbon Monoxide alarm is required in homes
where an unvented fireplace product is installed.
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