Expert: James Ball - 12/3/2008

Question
QUESTION: I own a townhouse with an existing fireplace on the main floor (that was converted to gas). The unit's chimney runs down exterior wall to foundation enclosing main floor fireplace.  I would like to have a gas fireplace installed in finished basement, directly underneath fireplace on main floor and connect flue piping to existing flue that runs up chimney.  I realize it would be easier to install a direct-vent fireplace and vent outside, but condo board will not allow.  Tying into existing flue is my only option unless I install vent-free fireplace. So long as it's similar type exhaust (nat gas)going up flue, are there any other considerations I should be aware of?  Thanks in advance for your help.

ANSWER: Hi Doug, you can not vent 2 units into the same flue. You can install the 2nd fireplace and run a 2nd chimney up the out side of the condo (this would be a very big job)
I am not a big fan of "non-vented" gas anything
James

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: James,

Thanks for the quick response.  I'm curious about the 2 units venting into the same flue as that is how the furnace and hotwater heater vent (same flue).  I will probably not proceed given the amount of work involved. Thanks

Answer
Welcome back Doug, you can mix liquid fuel's (oil and gas) but not solids (wood and coal) in the same flue. I would say go back to the board and ask again, bring them a brochure on the direct vent (I have a direct vent natural gas stove and love it, only one small Stainless Steel vent out side aprox. 12" X 12") much smaller than a full chimney ask why they are opposed to the direct vent, from there you might be able to work with them.
good luck
James