Martin MPL PENINSULA, Installation And Maintenance Manual

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F
IREPLACE
L
OCATION
CAUTION: Do not install fireplace over carpeting.
This fireplace does not require any special foundation. If the fireplace is to be trimmed with large stone or brick
facing, an adequate foundation is required to support these materials. Use figures 1 - 5 as a guide for selecting
a location and determining the space required for the fireplace.
The location for the fireplace should be adjacent to a load-bearing wall and away from objects that will create
drafts that could disturb the normal flow of air into the fire. Such objects are frequently opened doors and
central heat air outlets and returns. See figure 5 which illustrates various types of locations and installations
and figure 1 for additional information concerning installation heights, construction details, and methods of
installation.
A location that requires cutting the least number of joists and rafters for the chimney installation will simplify
and reduce installation cost.
Proper selection of a chimney outlet location is also important. Objects such as overhanging or nearby trees,
adjacent building or embankments or unusual roof designs can all create air turbulance and interfere with
chimney performance and cause the fireplace to spill smoke into the room.
Since the pitch of the roof influences the opening size required at the roof level, table 1 should be used as a
guide for sizing the roof opening.
Survey the planned location for the fireplace for overhead plumbing or electrical wires, etc., that might complicate
the installation or endanger persons installing or cleaning the chimney. Avoid a location where the chimney
cap will be near abrupt changes in the roof shape, nearby wall or embankments, under or near trees or above
the roof of a single story wing of a two story building as shown by Figure 3. All these conditions can cause
turbulence or pressure conditions that can cause poor chimney draft and smoke spillage from the fireplace
opening. Elbows may be used to offset the chimney to avoid obstructions or to locate the chimney cap in a
preferred location. Refer to the sections of this manual pertaining to chimney offsets for instructions on proper
elbow use. Poor installation or location of the chimney cap and/or components can cause wind blown rain to
enter the chimney.
If the fireplace is to be installed on an outside wall, the surrounding walls (chase) should be insulated.
Failure to insulate the fireplace from outside temperatures will cause heat loss through and around the fireplace.
5
53D9042. Rev 1 03/03