Expert: James Ball - 11/8/2010

Question
QUESTION: I have an older fireplace in a home jsut purchased. There are what appears to be venthilation holes cut out of the side and back of fireplace. I need to know the best course of action, should some be covered, left alone or screened? This is all new for me so any help is appreciated. Also there are no doors or fans with this unit. i have more pictures if you like

ANSWER: Hello Brandi, is this a metal firebox in side the fireplace? and yes more pictures would help
James

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

QUESTION: yes there is a metal firebox , where do I email you more pictures?

Answer
Welcome back Brandi, what you have is called a Heatolator fireplace it is a metal firebox and the vents allow air to be pulled in on the lower ones as the metal gets hot from the fire it raises up and out the top vents, fans can help circulate this "hot air". you should not cover these vents and you can find vents to cover them and attach them. I would have a local Certified Chimney Sweep www.csia.org, (there you can look up by zip code to find one near you) take a first hand look at what you have they should be able to help.
Hope this helps
James