Just purchased free standing Englander Pellet Stove, have existing gas fireplace with chimney

[Cold Water Surfer]

My wife wants to take out gas fireplace as we never use it plus do not have another spot to put stove. Can I use existing chimney? If not, what needs to be done? I will have mason fill in area behind stove to close up hole. What should I use as a base for the stove? Anything else I need to know before embarking on this project?

Thanks!

 

[CladMaster]

What materials and products can be used to vent pellet stoves?
The product specifically tested and listed for use with pellet stoves is PL vent pipe, labeled as tested to UL 641. PL vent pipe is double wall pipe; the stainless steel inner pipe that carries the exhaust products is separated from the outer wall by an air space. Pipe joints must be sealed gas tight to prevent exhaust products moving through the vent under pressure from leaking into the home. Stoves tested and listed with PL vent requirements cannot safely be vented with substitute materials.

Venting materials and products that MUST NOT BE USED TO VENT PELLET APPLIANCES include:

• Dryer vent
• Gas appliance (Type B) vent
• PVC (plastic) pipe
• Single wall stove pipe (unless clearly approved by the installation manual and local codes)

Pellet fireplace inserts and freestanding stoves are often vented into existing masonry and factory-built fireplace and woodstove chimneys. The chimney should be inspected before installation to ensure that it is clean, mechanically sound and meets local safety code requirements. The appliance manufacturer's installation instructions may require relining the chimney with an approved metal liner, pipe or PL vent. Vents or grilles on the face of factory-built fireplaces which provide cooling air to the outside jacket of the fireplace must not be blocked. Cleanout access for future maintenance should be considered.

As for the base, an hearth pad, you can make your own or buy a ready made one. Slate, brick, tile, metal sheet (steel), it must be non-flammable and meet all safety requirements (codes) and as per the manual for the stove.