Odor and breeze from DV Fireplace

14 years ago

We have a Valor Direct Vent Natural Gas Fireplace that was installed as part of the construction of a new home that is now 3 years old.

Since day one there has been a burning odor coming from it when you run it. A call to the manufacturer's tech support line indicated that there would be some "burn-off" odors from the manufacturing process during early usage, so we discounted it the first year. The 2nd year was so mild we never used it. 3 years later it's been a cold winter so far and we've tried to use it. The odors have not gone away.

In addition, cold air blows into our living room from over the top of the unit (through the mesh) when it is not running.

Anyone have any ideas what is wrong?

Comment (1)

fandlil
14 years ago
I am not familiar with your particular unit. But the kind of problem you describe indicates that the unit was not installed properly. If you have legal recourse to cause the builder to correct the problem, you should do that. Otherwise, hire someone with direct vent expertise to inspect your system and tell you what is wrong.

DV fireplaces are supposed to be sealed units. No air is supposed to pass from the outside to inside your house through the unit any more than you would expect a draft from a closed window.

If you are lucky, the problem can be fixed by sealing the air leaks with some kind of fireproof compound.
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