Many people use Fireplace but are not familiar with the components of fireplaces, one incident that happened to me was when my friend called me and asked What Are the Side Vents on a Fireplace For?
I was amazed because he had used a fireplace for at least five years and was unaware of the functions of the side vents on a fireplace.
Then of course I taught him about the functions of side vents on a fireplace in detail but as a fireplace expert, I realised like my friend people don’t know about the side vents’ functions.
So, this article is a knowledge booster about side vents on a fireplace, keep reading if you want to gain the knowledge.
What Are the Side Vents on a Fireplace For?
Side vents, also called air vents or air inlets, are openings located on the sides of a fireplace. They perform as a supplier of fresh oxygen into the firebox which is necessary for combustion,
Typically, these vents are placed either at the bottom of the fireplace or incorporated into the design of the firebox.
The side vent’s role is essential for the proper working of the fireplace, otherwise, it won’t work efficiently.
6 Function of Side Vents in Fireplace
#1) Enhancing Safety
Improper ventilation leads to the buildup of carbon monoxide in your fireplace which is harmful to human health and can cause respiratory and heart-related problems.
That is why proper ventilation through the side vents of the fireplace is necessary to avoid these gases in your house.
With the help of side vents, poisonous gases can’t accumulate inside because of the constant flow of fresh oxygen through the side vent of the fireplace located at the bottom side or attached to the firebox.
#2) Maintaining a Balanced Indoor Climate
According to the ventilation mechanism of the fireplace, fresh air is drawn in from side vents while simultaneously the hot air (produced from combustion) leaves from the chimney.
This process happens many times when the fireplace is working.
But if we avoid the function of the side vents then what happens negative pressure may be generated, causing drafts to come in from various areas of the house.
Side vents solve this issue of negative pressure created by improper circulation of air which can cause discomfort in your house.
#3) For Designing purpose
On one hand, there are the functional side of side vents but on the other hand, they also contribute to the decoration of the house.
Many manufacturers make designer side vents to choose from according to your house’s aesthetics, which complement your interior design or fireplace design.
#4) Reducing Smoke and Odors
An inadequate supply of oxygen and improper ventilation is the main cause of incomplete combustion.
Incomplete combustion produces unwanted smoke and odors which is not good for houseowner health.
Here are side vents that can solve this problem by providing an adequate amount of oxygen which leads to a complete combustion which reduces unwanted unburned particles, smoke, and odors in your house.
Side vents help create a better indoor atmosphere by guaranteeing that fuel is completely burned and reducing the presence of smoke and unpleasant smells.
#5) Oxygen Supply for Combustion
The burning of any wood and fuel needs oxygen for combustion in the fireplace, which is fulfilled by the side vent of your fireplace.
The constant supply of oxygen to combustion to the firebox helps the wood to burn to its optimum level, which makes the fireplace more efficient.
Proper ventilation with an adequate amount of oxygen makes a fireplace a nice and cozy place to be.
#6) Improved Efficiency
An adequate amount of oxygen ensures the complete combustion of the wood burning inside the fireplace.
Complete combustion means the fuel is burning efficiently, which makes your fireplace fuel-efficient.
Now, the same amount of wood produces more heat than before and long last in your fireplace.
Without side vents, you might face issues like incomplete combustion, excessive smoke production, and low heat output.
Fireplaces can enhance efficiency and offer extra warmth for your space by including vents.
FAQ
Should the vent on my fireplace be open or closed?
When you are starting a fire or when the fire is actively burning then you should open the vent on your fireplace, because the vent draws fresh air inside the fireplace and prevents the smoke from entering your room.