How To Vent A Water Heater Through A Wall?

Venting a Hot Water Heater Through the Wall

  • When it comes to correctly venting a hot water heater through a wall, it is important to first understand the many types of venting that are available to you to choose from.
  • You can refer to the following list of popular water heaters, which includes information on the sort of venting they require for installation.
  • This page also includes information on installing water heaters in mobile homes, which requires special care in such sensitive settings.
  • For more details, see the related article.

Atmospheric Water Heater

  • Water heaters that operate on air pressure are quite prevalent.
  • This water heater may be found in a variety of residences, including mobile homes, where it must be installed outside to function properly.
  • Environmental venting works by using the pressure and temperature differentials that exist between the outside and interior of the home to move exhaust gas upward and across the vertical pipe.
  • When used with this sort of water vent heater, any standard vent will typically function properly; however, it will be more susceptible to being back drafted.
  • You would need to be on the lookout for any symptoms of a gas leak, as well as any indications that you were doing incorrect venting.

If you notice any of these indicators, you should contact your gas company immediately, and if they are not accessible, you should contact a plumber as soon as possible to avoid any illness or property damage from occurring.Mobile houses and atmospheric water venting are not overly difficult when it comes to their operation.In the event that you decide to install or replace your current water heater with a portable one, make sure you get a portable hot water heater as well.The reason you should make this a priority is because businesses will not give warranties for water heaters if they are put in a movable house that was not designed for the sort of use that the water heater was intended for.You need also make certain that there is an external panel that will be able to reach the specific water heater, which should only be the case if you will be using the correct water heater.

Direct Vent Water Boiler

  • Besides the direct vent water boiler, there are a few more types of water heater venting that you should be familiar with.
  • The air that will be utilized for combustion will be supplied by the water vent, which will be located either on the roof or on the exterior of the wall, depending on the location.
  • This vent also provides for the release of off-gasses to the outer environment.
  • By bringing in fresh air from the outside, you will be able to reduce the likelihood of unintentional fires caused by flame-creating gases that may be present in the vicinity of your hot water heater.
  • Some water heater systems can vent up to a specific number of inches or horizontally until power vents are required, although this is not always the case.

One advantage of a direct vent model is that it will aid in the elimination of any problems that may have arisen as a result of insufficient interior ventilation.A direct vent system also features a two channel single pipe arrangement, which is common in the industry.Because only one pipe is required to pass through the roof or wall where clean air is transported and off-gasses are vented, only one pipe is necessary to pass through the roof or wall.It’s important to remember that there are different types of direct vents that may be used to draw air from a pipe that runs below your house and out to the outside, and they can be used to ventilate the off-gasses throughout your roof.In your mobile home, the direct or indirect combustion should be sealed at all times.

You can tell if your water heater is a sealed combustion unit by noticing that the vent for water heaters is placed within the residence and that there are no openings to the outside world.If you intend to replace your existing water heater with a new one of the same type, you should be sure you replace it with an identical unit.Otherwise, you run the danger of having inadequate interior ventilation, which will eventually cause your water heater to fail.As a result, combustion water heaters in mobile homes vent over the roof as if they were typical atmospheric gas water heaters.It does, however, obtain its fresh air through a bottom intake air vent that goes below the temporary house and out to the outside of the building.

Ventilated Water Heater

  • The power ventilated water heater is the final type of hot water heater vent that we will discuss in this article today.
  • These power vent variants are equipped with a blower that is frequently exceptionally silent.
  • It is located at the very top of the water heater and may be used in both horizontal and vertical applications depending on the configuration.
  • It is possible to operate it horizontally since the vent does not require the buoyancy of hot air to function properly.
  • The blower also helps to keep the air cold, which allows the vent to move more smoothly through the PVC pipe.

It is also very simple to assemble and maintain.If you decide to take this blower into consideration, keep in mind that you will require an electrical outlet within 6 feet of the blower.Choosing the appropriate venting for a hot water heater may be a difficult and tedious process.All you have to know is that venting any water heater is quite crucial and required for a comfortable living environment.Another thing that you should always keep in mind is the permits and building code requirements that are relevant to your location.

What You Need to Know About Venting a Hot Water Heater

  • A venting system is required for any water heater that uses natural gas or liquid propane (LP) gas as a fuel.
  • The process of burning a gas is referred to as combustion, and it results in the production of heat, exhaust gases (including very toxic carbon monoxide), and water vapor.
  • Due to the fact that it eliminates these waste products from the residence, the water heater’s ventilation system is an essential safety component.
  • In the majority of situations, the kind of ventilation system used is dictated by the type of water heater chosen.

Warning

  • This page is not meant to be a set of instructions, but rather to serve as a broad overview of how hot water heater venting works.
  • Don’t try to troubleshoot or remedy problems with your hot water heater’s venting on your own, since poor venting can cause serious health concerns in the long run.
  • If you suspect that your hot water heater is experiencing ventilation problems, call a professional right once.

Water Heater Venting Basics

  • In order to expel exhaust gases from the water heater to the outside, all water heater venting systems make use of a vent duct or pipe, which is also known as a chimney or flue.
  • Depending on the kind of ventilation system, the duct may be made of metal or plastic.
  • In some cases, water heater ducts can be connected directly to the outside, while in others, they can be connected to a larger vent duct that also feeds a gas or propane furnace or boiler in the home.
  • A common vent arrangement is what this is referred to as.
  • Most of the time, the exhaust from the bigger appliance warms up the common vent, enhancing the flow of air into the water heater vent.

While properly designed conventional venting systems are totally effective, if they are not built appropriately, there is the possibility of backdrafting difficulties.As a result, in certain code jurisdictions, conventional venting designs are no longer permitted; instead, direct venting or power venting of water heaters are now required.

Tip

Once a year, have your gas water heater cleaned and serviced to ensure that the venting system is always in perfect operating order. Gas and propane water heaters, in addition to requiring ventilation, require an air source for combustion. There are two ways in which this might happen: either through the natural ventilation in the house or by a vent pipe that draws air in from the outside.

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Proper Venting Prevents Backdrafting

Incorrect water heater venting can result in a phenomenon known as backdrafting, which occurs when exhaust gases from the water heater fail to depart the residence through the vent and instead accumulate within the property.Backdrafting may be caused by a variety of factors, the most prevalent of which include improper vent design or installation, as well as an imbalance in the amount of air in the residence.Water heater exhaust gas is commonly drawn downward and into the home by the installation of ventilation fans, such as bathroom or kitchen vent fans, which suck air out of the house and produce a suction effect, drawing exhaust gas into the home from the water heater vent.Some water heater venting systems, such as those that use fan-assisted ventilation or direct venting technologies, eliminate the potential of backdrafting.

Atmospheric Venting

Standard water heaters, which are the most popular variety, frequently employ a technique known as atmospheric venting to release heat.The vent consists of a vertical or upward-sloping vent duct that connects to a common vent, which is normally located in the ceiling.Natural convection is the only mechanism by which the system operates, and it is based on the idea that hot air rises.The hot exhaust from the water heater naturally rises up through the vent and into the air outside, providing a pull that encourages the upward circulation from the water heater to the outside.The power of the pull increases as the temperature of the vent duct rises.If the atmospheric vent systems are appropriately constructed and the home does not suffer from backdraft concerns, they can function effectively (and without the need of energy).

  1. The pull of poorly constructed vents is frequently insufficient, and/or they are extremely prone to backdrafting.

Power Venting

In addition to the vertical or horizontal vent ducts, water heaters with power venting are equipped with an electric blower fan (which is frequently very silent) mounted on top of the water heater.The fact that the vent does not rely on the buoyancy of hot air means that it may be installed horizontally to exhaust outside the home.The blower cools the air, allowing the vent to be run in PVC pipe (rather than metal, as is necessary with atmospheric venting), and it is simple to install and disassemble as needed.The water heater must be close to an electrical outlet in order for the fan to be powered.

Direct-Vent Water Heaters

The air for combustion in a direct-vent system is obtained through a vent pipe that passes through an outer wall or the roof and into the room.Exhaust gases are vented to the outside either a separate vent duct or a distinct chamber of the same pipe, depending on the configuration (this requires a double-wall vent duct).They effectively ″breathe″ outside air, which means they are not vulnerable to the effects of backdrafting in your home.As a bonus, they limit the possibility of unintentional fires produced by combustible gases in the vicinity of the water heater.

Water Heaters for Mobile Homes

Water heaters in mobile homes are comparable to those found in regular homes, but they must be specifically constructed for this function.Manufacturers will frequently not warranty a water heater that has been put in a mobile home unless the heater has been explicitly certified for that application.A conventional atmospheric water heater connection in a mobile home frequently necessitates the installation of an exterior access panel.If a water heater is installed within a mobile home and does not have access to the outside, it is most likely a sealed-combustion unit with direct venting, according to the manufacturer.

Can you vent a propane water heater through the wall?

Asked in the following category: General The most recent update was made on February 9th, 2020.The natural ascent of flue gases from a water heater to the outside is caused by the fact that they are warmer than the surrounding air.This is accomplished by the use of a vertical vent pipe or chimney.The vents are located on the outside of the house and may also be used to supply combustion air to the gas stove burner.In addition to the vertical or horizontal vent ducts, water heaters with power venting are equipped with an electric blower fan (which is frequently very silent) mounted on top of the water heater.The fact that the vent does not rely on the buoyancy of hot air means that it may be installed horizontally to exhaust outside the home.

  1. Furthermore, is it possible to vent a gas water heater and a gas furnace at the same time?
  2. Frequently, homes are constructed with the water heater and furnace sharing the same exhaust vent for combustion fumes.
  3. This is a frequent procedure with furnaces that have a standard efficiency (80 percent).
  4. When properly constructed, this venting configuration may be used with an 80 percent gas furnace (or a lower percentage than 80 percent) and a gas water heater with no problems.
  5. Is it possible to retrofit an existing water heater with a power vent?
  6. The operation of natural gas or propane hot water heaters is normally less expensive than that of electric water heaters, but constructing a conventional vent in a house that does not have an existing chimney is more expensive.

You’ll have an easier time running the vent if you choose to install a ″power-vented″ natural gas (or propane) water heater.Is it possible to replace a power vent water heater with a direct vent water heater?A pipe that extends outside via an outside wall is often used to vent both systems.Taking advantage of this difference in functioning, a direct vent water heater may be installed virtually anyplace; whereas, an electric vented water heater must be installed in a room with sufficient airflow.

Replacing Your Water Heater? Don’t Overlook This One Key Factor

  • Major Systems

If you’re in the market for a new water heater, installation will be easier if you stick to a water heater that vents the same way as your old one. But there are considerations beyond ease of installation. Read on to learn more.

Image courtesy of istockphoto.com When a home’s plumbing system is in good working order, homeowners seldom give the water heater a second consideration.A very different narrative unfolds when this critical appliance fails, interfering with all of the basic daily tasks that depend on having a constant supply of hot water available.When that happens, and you’re forced to take cold showers or wash your dinner dishes by hand, it’s likely that you’ll find yourself thinking about your water heater fairly often.If your water heater appears to be nearing the end of its useful life, or if it has completely ceased operating, you may be tempted to replace it as soon as possible.Rushing this choice, on the other hand, would be a mistake.For starters, there are many various types of water heaters available, each of which has a particular energy-efficiency profile to choose from.

  1. The type of water heater you pick will have a significant impact on how much you’ll end up paying to heat water on a consistent basis in the future.
  2. One other, more subtle reason to take your time is that ″choosing a replacement water heater carefully typically means avoiding extra installation charges,″ according to Daniel O’Brian, a technical consultant with SupplyHouse, a website that specializes in water heaters.
  3. If your present water heater requires venting, as the vast majority do, it is typically more cost-effective to purchase a replacement one that vents in the same manner.
  4. Otherwise, you’ll probably wind up paying more than really required for installation.
  5. Consult with a professional Identify qualified plumbing professionals in your area and receive free, no-obligation estimates for your plumbing project.
  6. + That is not to imply that there is never a good reason to move to a water heater with a different venting system than the one you are currently using.
See also:  How To Get Hot Water When Water Heater Is Broken?

In the words of O’Brian, ″A replacement that saves you a significant amount on your energy expenses may be well worth the additional installation cost.″ When evaluating your water heater alternatives, it’s important to address the issue of ventilation.However, when it comes time to make a purchase, O’Brian advises that you ″consider both the upfront and recurring expenditures.″ Image courtesy of supplyhouse.com

Is Ventilation Necessary for Water Heaters?

Does every water heater need ventilation?No—but as much as water heater technology has improved in recent years, combustion water heaters remain the most ubiquitous.That is, the ordinary water heater still consumes fuel—be it natural gas, oil, or propane—and that fuel burning releases byproducts like carbon monoxide.Without effective ventilation of the noxious gases released by burning, contemporary water heating would be a perilous prospect.

Types of Water Heater Ventilation

  • Unless you’re searching for a solar- or electric-powered water heater, or unless you live in a warm region and intend to install your water heater outside, you won’t have to worry about ventilation. Outside ventilation is required for virtually all other installations, but not every ventilation system operates in the same manner, and as a result, installation requirements might differ significantly. Figure 1 shows an example of an outside ventilation system. In the case of a water heater, atmospheric venting is a method in which the exhaust from the appliance naturally rises out of the appliance’s combustion chamber and travels up via a typical, chimney-style flue that culminates on top of the building. In contrast to certain other forms of ventilation, the atmospheric version does not need the installation of a motorized fan, but it does necessitate the installation of an exhaust pipe that extends uninterrupted from the water heater to the roof
  • Due to the fact that they do not require a direct route to the roof, direct venting and power venting systems provide additional flexibility. A pipe that extends outside via an outside wall is often used to vent both systems. It is important to note that a power vent water heater draws combustion air from the surrounding environment before using a fan to force the exhaust through the vent. It is possible to use a direct vent system that draws fresh air from the outside and vents it through a horizontal pipe. Because of this difference in functioning, a direct vent water heater may be installed virtually anywhere, but a power vented water heater must be installed in a room with sufficient airflow to function properly.

O’Brian of Supply House explains that the decision between powered and non-powered venting frequently comes down to how the house is planned out and whether or not there is enough space for the venting to be installed. Image courtesy of supplyhouse.com

Get Help

Even if you want to update to a water heater that vents in the same manner as your previous one, O’Brian suggests talking with a professional.When dealing with potentially fatal gases, it may seem like a basic exchange, but as O’Brian points out, ″even slight leakage may be disastrous when dealing with potentially lethal gases.″ To put it another way, don’t take any chances.Carry out your study, select an energy-efficient unit with a capacity that suits the demands of your family, and then leave the rest to the HVAC installation.Image courtesy of supplyhouse.com It is with great pleasure that SupplyHouse.com brings you this article.Consult with a professional Identify qualified plumbing professionals in your area and receive free, no-obligation estimates for your plumbing project.+

Resources

Not all A.O.Smith water heaters require venting within your house, but if you have a gas water heater that does require venting, it’s critical that you use the proper venting material to ensure that the water heater operates safely.Selecting the proper venting for your water heater can assist to guarantee that it performs safely and effectively.Because you may not be aware of the type of vent necessary for your water heater, you should seek the advice of a professional plumbing contractor who can assist you in determining the best option for your property.

Standard Atmospheric Vent

Standard atmospheric water heaters are the most popular form of gas water heater used in residential settings.In order to escape the residence, atmospheric gas water heaters must exhaust their exhaust through a vertical or upward sloping metal duct vent.This venting can be devoted to the water heater or it can be shared with other atmospheric vent appliances, such as a furnace, depending on the situation.The principle of atmospheric venting is based on the rise of heated air.This means that the venting must be vertical or upward sloping in order for the hot exhaust to ascend through the venting and out of your home.When installing a normal atmospheric vent with your water heater, it is critical to ensure that your property has a fully functioning vent system.

  1. Any obstructions or misalignments in your home’s ventilation system may result in the discharge of excess heat and gases into the surrounding environment.
  2. We recommend that you seek the services of a competent plumbing contractor for the installation process.

Power Vent

Water heaters from A.O.Smith with a power vent are equipped with an electric blower fan, which is mounted on top of the water heater and requires that an electrical outlet be located adjacent to the water heater.The blower is responsible for pushing exhaust and extra heat through the exhaust venting system.Power vent water heaters may be installed either vertically or horizontally, with a longer line to accommodate concerns with space and dimensions in your home.As a result, they are more versatile in their installation than other types of water heaters.

  1. Power vents are a more energy-efficient alternative since they are intended to use the heat generated by the exhaust to heat water, resulting in significant energy savings.
  2. Because of the lower exhaust temperatures, PVC pipe may be used instead of typical atmospheric vent metal piping, which is both less costly and easier to build than standard atmospheric vent metal.
  3. We recommend that you seek the services of a competent plumbing contractor for the installation process.

Power Direct Vent

Water heaters from A.O.Smith with a power vent are equipped with an electric blower fan, which is mounted on top of the water heater and requires that an electrical outlet be located near the water heater.The exhaust and extra heat are forced via the exhaust venting by the blower.Power vent water heaters are more versatile to install since the venting may be extended either vertically or horizontally with a longer line to deal with space and sizing difficulties within your home.Power vents are a more energy-efficient alternative since they are intended to use the heat generated by the exhaust to heat water, resulting in significant energy savings over time.

  1. Because of the lower exhaust temperatures, PVC pipe may be used instead of normal atmospheric vent metal piping, which is both less costly and easier to build than the latter.
  2. For the installation, we recommend that you talk with a licensed plumbing contractor.

Direct Vent

Water heaters that are vented directly into the atmosphere are the most suitable for usage in situations when there is inadequate ventilation available within the installation area of your home.In contrast to an indirect vent water heater, a direct vent water heater takes air for combustion from outside your home rather than from within.All of the exhaust gases and surplus heat generated by your water heater are vented back into the environment.A direct vent water heater makes use of specific coaxial venting, which features separate chambers for intake air and exhaust air in a single manufactured vent component, which allows for more efficient operation.The water heater’s venting is sent through the side of your house to the outside.They draw and push air from the outside to ensure that there is no backdrafting within your home or building.

  1. When installing and utilizing a gas or liquid propane tank water heater, this can assist to reduce the chances of injury or death.
  2. We recommend that you seek the services of a competent plumbing contractor for the installation process.
Concentric Vent Termination
Concentric Vent Full Run

Concentric Vent

In a coaxial ″pipe in pipe″ venting system, concentration refers to a configuration in which both the intake air and the exhaust gas vent through a single common assembly.It is possible to achieve an aesthetically pleasing installation with only a single wall or roof penetration.Concentric venting may be utilized with a variety of water heaters, including direct vent, power direct vent, and tankless water heaters.Direct vent water heaters are the most common.The material of the concentric venting, on the other hand, may change depending on the type of water heater being used.Direct vent water heaters and concentric vent tankless water heaters are examples of devices that are specifically intended for concentric venting and may be utilized to complete the whole vent line (from water heater to exterior of the home) in a single installation.

  1. On a power direct vent tank or tankless water heater, a concentric vent termination can be utilized to achieve the same benefits of a single wall or roof penetration while maintaining an aesthetically pleasing vent termination.
  2. Separate intake and exhaust vent pipes are run between the water heater and the inside wall in that installation, with only the wall penetration and termination utilizing concentric plumbing throughout the rest of the system.
  3. We recommend that you seek the services of a competent plumbing contractor for the installation process.

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Gas Water Heater Venting Options

When installing a gas-fueled water heater in your house, you’re going to think through the process before you tackle it. One of the most important considerations is what alternatives you have for venting your gas water heater. We’ll go over each form of venting in detail, as well as the criteria and some of the potential water heater venting issues that you could run into in the future.

Wate Heater Vent Types

Ventilation consists of two distinct components. Your water heater must be able to properly exhaust flue gases while simultaneously drawing in fresh air from the outside. Due to the presence of carbon dioxide in the exhaust, it must be vented outdoors. Listed below are your three alternatives:

  1. Atmospheric vent
  2. Power vent
  3. Direct vent

Atmospheric

If you have an atmospheric venting system, your exhaust will naturally vent out of the building.Due to this characteristic, exhaust will often escape by a vertical pipe, most frequently into a chimney where it will be expelled permanently from the building.The air that is utilized for combustion is drawn from the atmosphere within the building (or garage).The most frequent method of venting a gas water heater is via the atmosphere.It is important to note that the major difficulty with atmospheric vent systems is that they are prone to back drafts (more on that later).

Power

If your water heater has a power-vent setup, it indicates that it circulates air using a mechanical fan to do this.There are several advantages to this method, including the fact that you can vent either vertically or horizontally and that you may position the water heater a significant distance from the termination point (often as much as 150′).This sort of installation may be done in residences that do not have a chimney.You must vent your water heater via stainless steel or metal pipe, regardless of whether you have a tank or tankless water heater.The high temperatures necessitate this need.A condensing unit, which will allow you to vent through PVC pipe, is the only method to eliminate this problem entirely.

Direct

Direct vent systems are distinguished by the presence of a sealed combustion chamber and a flue pipe.They can be vented independently or in conjunction with one another through a double-wall pipe.Direct-vent water heaters, as opposed to atmospheric water heaters, provide greater installation freedom due to the fact that they may vent horizontally.In addition, they are more silent than their power-venting counterparts when in operation.This Wikipedia page on water heaters may be useful if you have more general questions about them.

Gas Hot Water Heater Venting Problems

  • Back-drafting is an issue that you should avoid at all costs. This is most typically seen with atmospheric arrangements, and it indicates that your exhaust is not exiting the building properly. Back-drafting is typically caused by an insufficiently designed vent system. Keep an eye out for the following signs: corroded metal at the very top of the water heater
  • melted plastic at the very top of the water heater, next to the draft hood
  • Condensation
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A manual test can also be performed. By closing all of the doors and windows, turning off the furnace, and leaving the water heater alone, you may isolate the water heater from the rest of the house. If you see warm air near the draft hood, this indicates that your system is back-drafting air.

Water Heater Venting Requirements

  • The key is to ensure that your ventilation system has the appropriate amount of size, height, and draft. Here is a list of some minimal minimum requirements, but please do not consider this to be a full list. You will be required to examine and adhere to any and all local and state codes that may apply to you. When venting vertically through the roof, you’ll almost always need to utilize a vent connection to keep the air flowing. Please keep in mind that it must have a rise of 1/4″ per 12″ of horizontal run in order to function properly. Because there isn’t much of an incline, maintaining compliance isn’t normally a problem. This means that the total horizontal distance cannot be greater than 75% of the total vertical distance
  • The typical clearance requirement for B-Vent chimney pipe is one inch
  • however, there is zero-clearance pipe available. For a single-wall pipe, you’ll need 6″ of clearance, and you won’t be able to pass it through a ceiling, floor, or wall unless it’s made of masonry or concrete (both of which are non-combustible).
  • When connecting the draft hood, you must allow for at least 12″ of vertical venting before inserting an elbow fitting into the line.
  • If you have a power vent water heater, do not place it near other appliances that use the same flue.

Check Out Other Helpful Guides

Resources that are related to this topic include: How to Light a Gas Water Heater in 7 Easy Steps Installation of a Gas Water Heater How to Replace a Water Heater Thermocouple in 5 Easy Steps On a water heater, how do you clean the thermocouple? How to Turn On a Hot Water Heater (with Pictures)

Can you vent a gAs fire Water heater out a perimeter wall

  • An inspection of a split-level property with a utility room that had a furnace with 90 percent efficiency and an electric water heater was recently completed by me. The buyer want to switch from an electric water heater to a gas water heater. What we’re trying to figure out is if it has to vent through the roof. If he vents it via the side wall, what are the concerns to be taken into account? A particular minimum distance from any penetrations, such as doors and windows, would almost certainly be required. Anyway, I’m stumped, and I’m confident that someone out there knows what to do. In Jefferson County, west of Denver, the house is located in an incorporated area of the city. Thank you for taking the time to respond. Fire marshal defends departments – Durham Herald Sun
  • Little Promises evacuated after fire
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Re: Can you vent a gAs fire Water heater out a perimeter wall

System installation may be accomplished horizontally using direct vent and power vented configurations.I’d suppose that certain water heaters might be retrofitted with a new vent system, but I’m not sure whether that’s possible.If you have a power vent system, one thing to bear in mind is that if/when the electricity goes out, you will also lose hot water.Despite the fact that I haven’t seen many of the direct vent variety, a hvac contractor was just telling me about them last week.Perhaps someone on this forum has had some experience with these and will share their thoughts.

Re: Can you vent a gAs fire Water heater out a perimeter wall

Re: Can you vent a gAs fire Water heater out a perimeter wall

Ted Menelly originally posted this on his blog. There will be no blow. There will be no boiling. This is not always the case. Direct (horizontal) vent gas-fired water heaters are available that do not require the usage of electricity. Rheem is a manufacturer of one.

Re: Can you vent a gAs fire Water heater out a perimeter wall

Neal lewis first posted this on his blog. This is not always the case. Direct (horizontal) vent gas-fired water heaters are available that do not require the usage of electricity. Rheem is a manufacturer of one. Yes, there is that as well, but he was specifically referring to the motorized vents.

Re: Can you vent a gAs fire Water heater out a perimeter wall

Sorry if I’m incorrect in my understanding or vocabulary, but I’m thinking of direct vent as opposed to powered vent when referring to the ones that use natural draft. If there is such a thing as a powered direct vent, I assume the ones with electricity are it.

Re: Can you vent a gAs fire Water heater out a perimeter wall

When you say ″direct vent,″ you’re referring to a balanced system that pumps in as much air as it requires through a thermosyphon and then exhausts through a concentric vent.Positive pressure cannot be used on any vent that has not been tested and is not listed for that use.That is to say It is not possible to power vent a Cat.I gas appliance with an integrated fan.If the appliance is approved for use with a wall termination power venter, you can use one to terminate the power to the device.WH manufactures both power vented units, which draw air from the home, and direct vent units, which draw in their own air and are therefore divorced from the home’s supply of air.

  1. HTH Maintain the flames in the fireplace.

Re: Can you vent a gAs fire Water heater out a perimeter wall

A gas-fired water heater that is either a power vent unit or an indirect vent unit can be vented through the wall.There are two types of power vent units available: the direct vent power vent and the standard power vent unit.As Bob Harper pointed out, the direct vent power vent pulls its combustion air from the outside, whilst the standard power vent unit draws its combustion air from within the building.Let’s assume you don’t want a power vent unit in your home.Then there’s the Atmospheric Direct Vent device, which does exactly what it says.It must be close to an exterior wall, and the hole in the wall must be large enough to allow the thimble that passes through the wall.

  1. There is a 5″ pipe coming out the top of the unit, with a 3″ pipe inserted within the 5″ pipe, on this unit.
  2. Both the bigger and smaller pipes are used for fresh air intake and exhaust respectively.
  3. Despite the fact that these units are almost as expensive as a power vent unit, they will still provide hot water if the power goes out.
  4. A large number of customers wish to purchase a normal Atmospheric Vent water heater and vent it out the side wall of their home.
  5. This is not permitted; every manufacturer with whom I have dealt has insisted on their being vented to the roof or into a properly sized chimney system.
  6. When you choose the AtmosphericDirect Vent or the Power Vent options, the installation guides will tell you how much distance you need from doors, windows, and other objects that must be kept in proper working order.

They also include a warning stating that you should verify with your local codes to make sure there are no extra obligations.I hope this has been of assistance.

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High Efficiency Furnace Venting: What You Need to Know

Be aware of the need of high efficiency furnace venting if you are considering installing a natural gas furnace in your new house or replacing an existing system with natural gas heating.Combustion gases are produced as a byproduct of the burning of natural gas during the combustion process.These combustion fumes must be evacuated from your house through the furnace ventilation system for the sake of your health and safety.A standard natural gas furnace will exhaust the potentially hazardous combustion gases through a basic vertical exhaust system that is connected to the furnace.This system is simple and inexpensive.For the purpose of exhausting the combustion gases produced in the furnace fire chamber, metal venting is often used.

  1. This venting is frequently channeled onto a chimney stack.
  2. These combustion gases, on the other hand, include residual heat that is dissipated through the ventilation system.
  3. With a high-efficiency condensing furnace, you can trap as much heat as possible.
  4. It is possible to obtain efficiency ratings of 90 percent or more with a high efficiency condensing furnace.
  5. It makes use of a venting mechanism to extract the heat before releasing it into the atmosphere.
  6. What is vented is a remnant corrosive condensate of water and carbon dioxide, which is corrosive to both metals.

This leftover liquid has a high concentration of acid.Normal venting equipment, such as that utilized in typical gas furnace ventilation systems, will be ruined as a result of this.For this reason, high efficiency furnace venting needs the use of PVC pipes rather than metal pipes to evacuate the acidic condensate from your home, in order to prevent this problem.All of these PVC pipes are linked to the furnace and discharged to the outer environment.When you install a new furnace, you must also install a high-efficiency venting system to ensure maximum efficiency.The PVC pipes are utilized for several purposes, including air intake, exhaust gas removal, and the removal of corrosive condensation formed during the combustion process.

Other Aspects of High Efficiency Furnace Venting

There are a number of additional significant considerations when it comes to high-efficiency furnace ventilation. To put it more specifically:

Electronic Ignition

An electronic igniting mechanism is used in the operation of a high-efficiency condensing furnace.It is a hot surface ignition method that makes use of a resistive heating element that is controlled electronically, similar to a filament in a conventional light bulb.The gas burner is ignited by the surface temperature of the heating element.It outperforms and outperforms a pilot light in terms of performance and safety.As a result of its greater working efficiency, it also helps to reduce energy consumption.

Special Furnace Venting and Drainage

Electric ignition is used in the operation of a high-efficiency condensing furnace.An electronic controlled resistance heating element, similar to a light bulb filament, is used in this hot surface igniting method, which produces high temperatures on the surface of the fire.The gas burner is ignited by the surface heat of the heating element.It outperforms a pilot light in terms of both performance and safety.As a result of its higher operational efficiency, it also delivers energy savings.

Sidewall Venting

When your new high-efficiency condensing furnace is installed, your contractor should take extra steps to ensure that all ventilation systems are properly situated and are functioning properly before starting the job.Sidewall venting is one of the most critical safety characteristics of gas-condensing systems, and it should not be overlooked.It is necessary to install separate vent pipes horizontally so that they may vent to the outside via a wall of your home in order to provide proper sidewall ventilation.In order to avoid the chance of combustion gas leakage from the furnace combustion chamber, these ventilation pipes should be separated from the furnace combustion chamber and made airtight.Construction of the pipes should be such that any condensate that collects in the pipes drains backward without freezing and drains into a floor drain or catch basin, rather than into the ground.In the event that a high efficiency condensing furnace is not adequately vented, it might pose two types of safety risks.

  1. First and foremost, the gas byproducts may contain leftover carbon monoxide, which may seep back into your house if the ventilation pipes are not properly sealed against the elements.
  2. For the second time, inadequately venting the exhaust into the home through a chimney (as is typically done with conventional gas furnace systems) can cause damage to chimneys and chimney liners if the exhaust becomes trapped and freezes.
  3. The acidic components in the exhaust can also harm exposed chimney bricks and mortar if they are not properly sealed.
  4. As a result, the exhaust from a condensing furnace should never be vented through a regular chimney for safety reasons.

Two Heat Exchangers

Two heat exchangers are utilized in high efficiency furnace venting.Traditionally, just one type of furnace is used.There are two stages to their procedure.The first stage involves the combustion of gas to heat the first heat exchanger.The second step of the heat exchanger commences once the first stage has been heated.The secondary heat exchanger is responsible for extracting heat from the hot exhaust gases in the second stage.

  1. When the exhaust gasses are cooled to the degree where the water vapor in the exhaust gas condenses into liquid water, the heat extraction process is complete.
  2. Any gaseous wastes produced are cold enough to be vented to the outside using a PVC piping system.
  3. Afterwards, the condensed water is discharged through a floor drain.

Maintenance

Change The Air Filters Regularly

Replace the furnace filters on a regular basis, at least every three months.In the case of pets, you should do it on a more frequent basis.A basic $1 fiberglass filter will provide adequate protection for the blower and its engine.You may also purchase more expensive specialty filters that are designed to filter out tiny particles.Make sure you read the owner’s handbook to find out what the manufacturer recommends doing.By limiting airflow to an excessive degree, the more powerful filters might place an unnecessary burden on your furnace.

  1. Replace the filters in the return air ducts.
  2. For permanent-type filters, you should clean them according to the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure that dust and debris are removed from the system.

Make Sure Ventilation Pipes And Condensation Drains Are Unobstructed.

Maintain the openings in the vent and drain pipes. Check them on a regular basis and clear away any obstacles.

Schedule Regular Tune-ups With A Professional HVAC Contractor

A high-efficiency condensate furnace can help you save a significant amount of money on your heating expenditures each year.To ensure that the system is functioning properly, you must check periodically.Depending on whether the condensate from a high-efficiency furnace spills out of the PVC pipes or if the pipes are not properly draining the condensate, you might face damage to your property, which you may not realize until the damage becomes substantial.A competent HVAC specialist will verify that your venting pipes are securely fastened and that they are placed correctly.In addition, the expert will evaluate your system and address any prospective or small problems before they become major.

Contact A Professional HVAC Contractor For More Information About Furnace Venting

Consider a high-efficiency condensate furnace as an alternative to a traditional furnace system before making your final decision. For additional information about high-efficiency furnace venting, as well as furnace installation, repair, and maintenance, speak with a qualified HVAC professional with extensive expertise.

See also:  How To Clean Tankless Water Heater Filter?

How to Vent a Tankless Water Heater

  • It is possible to increase the energy efficiency of your water heater by installing and maintaining it properly. However, figuring out the ins and outs of venting a tankless water heater may be a complex process. Even though these systems are generally shipped with all of the necessary instructions and installation manuals, the procedure might be extensive and difficult to follow. Your tankless water heater’s venting system will be determined by the model and the location where you want it to terminate. You may require the following items: A vent adapter, a termination kit, pipes (PVC, ABS, or stainless steel), pipe support and brackets are all required.
  • Typically, the following is the sequence of events that occurs during the venting installation: Installing your water heater should be your first step.
  • Choose a technique for terminating the pipes (sidewall or vertical, concentric or separate), and then decide on the pipe configuration.
  • Calculate the most appropriate place for each termination’s wall or roof penetration
  • Assemble the terminator assembly
  • Install the air and vent pipes from the water heater to the end of the project.
  • Horizontal exhaust pipes should be sloped downward toward the water heater at a rate of at least 1/4 inch per foot. Avoid sloping the combustion air pipe towards the appliance. Condensate should be disposed of according to local regulations.
  • As required by your local regulations, install pipe support and brackets every 4 feet to account for movement caused by expansion.
  • Also, have a look at this: Is there no hot water in the shower? Here’s Why You Should Terminate Your Installation It is possible to employ three different venting termination configurations
  • these are as follows: Concentric Termination-This type of termination allows for just one penetration into a wall or ceiling at a time.
  • Snorkel Termination- When having to terminate via a lower location, this enables for simpler clearance above grade.
  • Termination of the sidewall tee

The type of termination required may vary depending on the device and the location where it will be installed. An elbow termination provides the best wind protection and is suggested if the vent is terminated on a sidewall that is prone to strong winds.

Tankless Water Heater Venting Kits

It is necessary to use the proper vent and termination equipment with your water heater in order to get the most out of it.While many units come with a vent when you purchase them from Amazon, you may need to purchase one separately, or at the very least for an additional length, if you are not venting directly from where your unit is positioned.If the following scenarios apply to you and you need to place your water heater in a certain location, the following termination kits may be required to complete your water heater’s venting to the outside:

Rinnai 12-Inch Condensing Horizontal Termination Kit

  • Two layers of pipe
  • The hood dips down to allow for condensate drainage.
  • Every seam is sealed with a sealant.
  • It is compatible with different brands.

Rheem 3-Inch Horizontal Vent Termination Kit

  • There are two ports: one for intake and one for exhaust.
  • Installation is simple.
  • It is compatible with different brands.

Z-Flex 4-Inch Horizontal Stainless Steel

  • The hood is made of Category III stainless steel, and it is UL recognized as non-corrosive. It is compatible with various brands.

Rheem 3” or 5” Vertical Vent Kit

  • It is compatible with condensing
  • it has an integrated condensate collection.
  • Rain hat and storm collar are recommended.
  • 50-1 Cone Flashing with a Pitched Cone

Rinnai 18-Inch Above Roof Termination

  • The GSA has given their approval.
  • It is only compatible with noncondensing systems.
  • It is compatible with different brands.
  • Outer vent made of metal

Why Vent a Tankless Water Heater

All gas-fueled water heaters are required to include a ventilation system.The combustion process generates heat as well as certain potentially dangerous exhaust gas emissions.Tankless water heaters require a unique venting system to expel the hot exhaust gas outdoors, where it may cool and disperse completely.Because the exhaust gas from non-condensing tankless water heaters is extremely hot, a metal such as stainless steel or thick aluminum should be used for the venting.Metal venting is not required for condensing tankless water heater venting since the water heater is condensing.Also, have a look at this: Manual for Reddy Heater Troubleshooting & How-to Guide

What Type of a Vent Does a Tankless Water Heater Use?

  • In general, depending on the model of your tankless water heater, there are two options for venting: Direct venting
  • power venting
  • indirect venting

Direct Venting

This sort of vent sucks in fresh air from the outside and then vents it out the other side as well.The advantage of this technique is that it allows the unit to be positioned in more compact places than traditional systems.Tankless water heaters with concentric or dual venting are both options for this type of water heater.A concentric vent system includes both the intake and exhaust on the same pipe, which makes for easier installation.The exhaust is located in the center of the vent so that the outside of the vent does not become hot.This makes it excellent since it allows you to place the unit anywhere you choose because sealing it is not a concern.

  1. Dual vent systems will feature two pipes, one for the intake and one for the exhaust, which will be connected together.
  2. The position is important in this case since the exhaust pipe might become quite hot.
  3. The material used is also important; normally, they are constructed of PVC because it is impossible to seal stainless steel with silicone alone.

Power Venting

The intake of a power vent tankless water heater is located on the tankless water heater’s body, rather than through a vent or pipe. It vents via the house’s interior air, with an exhaust pipe exiting out the back. In order for the air intake to function correctly, it requires a wider space, which might make tank placement more challenging.

Do Propane Tankless Water Heaters Need to Be Heated?

Tankless water heaters that run on propane have the same characteristics as those that run on natural gas do.They only heat the water when it is actually needed.They do not suffer from standby heat loss, which is a problem with storage tanks.There is no need to have water sitting in a storage tank because they employ an extremely high flame.An electronic sensor will ignite a propane gas burner to heat the water as soon as you turn on the hot-water faucet.

Can a Water Heater be Vented Out through a Sidewall?

Tankless water heaters do not require venting through the roof, and this is not required. Because their combustion fans exhaust horizontally, unlike storage tank water heaters, which function by draft, enabling hot exhaust air to ascend up and out of the facility, the vents in these units may be terminated on a sidewall.

Does an Electric Water Heater Need to Be Vented?

If you are having difficulty deciding where to install your tankless water heater owing to worries about venting, you should consider purchasing an electric tankless water heater.These electric units do not require a venting system, and they provide far more customization choices than gas or propane units.The most significant difficulty with electric water heaters is the flow rate (GPM).They are often better suited for point-of-use applications and for usage in households with lower water consumption.Also, have a look at this: How to Remove Hard Water from a Water Boiler and Clean It Build-Up

Can You Vent a Hot Water Heater with PVC Pipe?

When it comes to water heaters with power venting, you can choose PVC or ABS as the venting material.These heaters are equipped with an electric blower fan that cools the air and lowers the temperature of the exhaust that passes through the vent to a level where it will not damage the vent or cause it to malfunction.Check with the manufacturer and your local government to see if the installations are authorized prior to beginning work.

Top 2 Best 40-Gallon Power Vent Water Heaters (2021 Review)

The most recent update was made on March 5, 2022. Throughout this post, we’ll be discussing the top 40-gallon hot water heaters with power vents that are currently available on the market.

✅What is a Power Vent?

A power vent is a device that is used to force exhaust gases through ventilation pipes. It is possible to install these pipes either vertically (through a roof) or horizontally (through a sidewall).

Power Vent Vs Direct Vent

The primary distinction between direct vent and power vent is that direct vent draws in combustion air from the outside, whereas power vent draws in combustion air from the inside. As a result, a power vent system should be installed in an open space where there is enough of natural ventilation.

Top Considerations Before Purchasing a Water Heater with Power Vent

  • Our greatest effort has been put out in outlining each heater’s technical specifications, including UEF (energy efficiency), FHR (first hour rate) and recovery rate, so that you have all of this information available when making any comparisons across models.
  • Physical Measurements and Weight – We’ve also included information on the unit’s physical dimensions and weight.
  • In addition, price details have been provided, with $ being the cheapest price and $1000 signifying the most expensive. We understand that everyone has a different financial situation, thus this is a crucial consideration
  • Warranty — Wherever feasible, we’ve included information on the warranty.

Customer Testimonials and Ratings – You may be certain that any of these 40-gallon hot water heaters with power vent that we’ve chosen for this post are excellent choices since we’ve gone to great lengths to find just the highest-quality models.

On this page, we’ve listed the following 40-gallon power vent water heaters in descending order of price, starting with the cheapest at the top ($) and progressing down to the most expensive ($) at the bottom:

40-Gallon Power Vent Water Heaters – Top 2

A.O. Smith GPVL-40 ProMax Power Vent Gas Water Heater, 40 gal – $$$

Technical Specs

  • UEF (Energy Efficiency): 0.7 EF
  • FHR (First Hour Rating): 73 GPH
  • Recovery Rate: 44.7 GPH
  • UEF (Energy Efficiency): 0.7 EF
  • UEF (Energy Efficiency): 0.7 EF
  • UEF (Energy Efficiency): 0.7 EF

General Specs

  • 174 lbs. Price: $$$
  • Dimensions: 59H by 22W by 29D inches
  • Warranty: 6-Year Limited Warranty on tank and parts
  • Price: $$$

Features

The ProLine® XE Power Vent gas water heater is designed to help you save money on your energy bills while also giving you more options for how you want to place the water heater.This power vent, which has a 40-gallon tank and a 40,000 BTU gas burner, can offer a first-hour capacity of 73 gallons and recover 44.7 gallons per hour, according to the manufacturer.A hot-surface ignitor is more durable and dependable than a standing pilot, and it consumes less energy than the latter.Thermal heat traps built into the water intake and exit limit the amount of heat lost via the piping system.Two-inch-thick ″Environmentally-Friendly″ foam insulation helps to prevent heat loss and aids to overall energy efficiency by reducing the amount of heat lost.This water heater qualifies for the ENERGY STAR® program due to its low energy factor of 0.7.

  1. In addition, it has a 6-year guaranteed warranty and complies with low NOx emission standards.
Pros
  • Brand recognition
  • high UEF and FHR
  • high UEF and FHR
  • Warranty on the tank and components for six years
Cons
  • None

A.O. Smith GPVL-50 ProMax Power Vent Gas Water Heater, 50 gal – $$$$$ – Skip to section

Top Recommendation – Fantastic Reviews

Technical Specs

  • In this case, the UEF (Energy Efficiency) is 0.72 EF, the FHR (First Hour Rating) is 79GPH, and the recovery rate is 44.7GPH.

General Specs

  • 174 lbs. Price: $$$
  • Dimensions: 59H by 22W by 29D inches
  • Warranty: 6-Year Limited Warranty on tank and parts
  • Price: $$$

Features

Gas water heaters like the ProLine® XE Power Vent are built to be as efficient as possible while also offering the customer with additional flexibility in terms of installation options.It is equipped with a 50-gallon (nominal) tank and a 40,000 BTU gas burner for maximum efficiency.In its initial hour of operation, the GPVL-50 Power Vent is capable of recovering up to 79.5 gallons and recovering 44.7 gallons per hour in its second hour of operation.This water heater has an ENERGY STAR® qualification because of its 0.72 Uniform Energy Factor.Additionally, it comes with a 6-year guaranteed warranty and complies with low NOx emission standards.

Pros
  • Good reputation
  • high UEF
  • high FHR and RR
  • high UEF
  • high UEF
  • Warranty on the tank and components for six years
Cons
  • Premium-priced

Conclusion

Important to note is that we recognize that everyone’s wants and specifications for a 40 gallon hot water heater with power vent are unique, as is their financial situation and ability to purchase such a unit.As a result, we strive not to provide definitive advice because we do not know your specific requirements.Based on features, reviews, and pricing, we personally prefer the A.O.Smith GPVL-50 ProMax Power Vent Gas Water Heater, 50 gal.(GPVL-50) above the other options.It, like the other A.O.

  1. Smith unit, is backed by a 6-year guarantee on the tank and its parts, as well.
  2. However, when compared to the other unit, the 50gal version has a higher FHR and a higher Recovery Rate.
  3. Overall, this is an excellent product for anyone searching for a power vent water heater with a capacity of (about) 40 gallons.
  4. SummaryReviewer Charlie W.
  5. Palmer is an American businessman and author.
  6. Item that has been reviewed on the date of review Power Vent Water Heaters with a 40-Gallon Capacity Product NameAuthor Rating5Product Name Power Vent Water Heaters with a 40-Gallon Capacity

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