DIY Network

Gas Fireplace Insert: Installing the Insert From "Weekend Handyman" episode WKH-305

	In this week's episode of Weekend Handyman, host Paul Ryan shows you how to transform your old wood-burning fireplace (seen here) into a clean, efficient ...
	gas fireplace using an insert kit.
	And our host tops off the fireplace with an oak shelf.

Time: 12 hours over two days.
Difficulty Rating: This project rates a 2 out of 5 on the Weekend Handyman difficulty scale.

Materials:

For Installing the Fireplace Insert --

Fireplace insert kit
Work gloves
Safety goggles
Mask
Ear protection
Flashlight
Pliers
Tape measure
Cordless drill
Reciprocating saw
Power nailer
Non-flammable fiberglass insulation
Silicone
Self-tapping screws
Extension ladder
Screwdriver
Metal cutters
Level
Wrench

For Running Gas and Electrical Lines --

Rotary hammer drill
Long carbide bits
Specialty, sectional drill bit for concrete

For Installing the New Mantel --

Mantel kit
Tape measure
Reciprocating saw
Power nailer
Prybar
Scraping tool
Level

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	Figure A
	Figure B
	Figure C
	Figure D
	Figure E

Installing the Insert

1. Start by attaching the firebox insert to the two vent pipes. Attach the pipe to the plate with sheet metal screws and make sure the exhaust pipe connects to the place marked "exhaust" (figure A).

2. Before you connect the plate with the pipes to the insert, be sure to insulate around the pipes where damper was.

3. Put in leveling legs (figure B) to even the height of the hearth and bottom of the firebox.

   Note: You may need to remove the ash cover (figure C) on the floor of the "old" fireplace as well.

4. Set the firebox insert roughly into place.

5. Make the gas and electrical hook-ups, and we strongly recommend that you use a professional to do this. If you choose to do it yourself, be sure to abide by all local codes.

6. Slide the insert into the firebox careful, and be sure not to kink the gas line.

7. Slide the connecting plate into the slots (figure D) on top of the insert, which will bring the vent pipes into line with the holes on the insert. Note that the handle makes it easy to pull the plate into place.

8. Secure the sliding plate to the insert with a self taping screw.

9. If needed adjust the leveling legs so the insert is level from side to side and plumb from front to back.

10. Now it's time to install and load the components (embers, fire logs, etc.). Start by removing the glass front panel by unhooking the two clips at the bottom.

11. Insert the glowing embers -- about a 1/2" apart (figure E). Larger pieces can be placed at the base of the burner plates so the flames will look more realistic.

12. Scatter the mystic embers, which will appear like firewood ash, loosely around the edges of the burner plate.

13. Place the ceramic fire logs carefully -- following the instructions because they only go in "one" way.

14. Put the glass panel back on.

15. Install the receiver for the remote control, following the instructions in the manual.

    Note: The remote is a thermostat with a push-button on-off switch so you can start the fireplace from across the room. It also has a timer. Be sure to place the receiver outside the firebox in order to protect it from the heat.

16. Do a test burn to make sure the components work.

In the final segment the surround and new mantel shelf are installed.

RESOURCES :

Chimney Sweep
Where available: Visit the Jack Pixley Sweeps website, link below.
Jack Pixley Sweeps
4179-149th Ave. NW
Andover, MN 55304
Phone: 763-422-0481
Website: www.jackpixleysweeps.com

Gas Fireplace Insert with Town Square Front
Brand name: Quadra-Fire
Model #: qvi30fb
Color: Black
Where available: Visit the Quadra-Fire website to find an authorized dealer nearest you, link below.
Hearth & Home Technologies
1445 North Highway
Colville, WA 99114
Toll-free: 800-234-2508
Website: www.quadrafire.com

Mantel Shelf
Brand name: MantelsDirect
Model #: Manor House Custom Shelf
Color: Red Oak/Golden Oak Stain
Where available: Visit the MantelsDirect website, link below.
MantelsDirect.com
21 N. Seminary St.
Florence, AL 35630
Toll-free: 888-493-8898
Website: www.mantelsdirect.com

GUESTS :

Shane Kretsinger
Vice President, Operations
Autumn River
We apologize no contact information is available.

Jack Pixley
Chimney Sweep
Jack Pixley Sweeps
4179-149th Ave. NW
Andover, MN 55304
Phone: 763-422-0481

Jeff Hanel
Firebrick Product Manager
Hearth & Home Technologies
20802 Kensington Blvd.
Lakeville, MN 55044
Phone: 952-985-6508

Brian Christenson
Sales
Fireside Hearth & Home
3235 Denmark Ave.
Eagan, MN 55121
Phone: 651-452-3399