PSA: Screen those outside intakes, especially for a ZC fireplace

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Mooderator
Staff member
Hearth Supporter
Nov 18, 2005
107,143
South Puget Sound, WA
Twice in two days we have had postings about vermin intrusion into the ZC cabinet via the intake port and outside air intake vent. Even if you have no issues, go out and check the outdoor intake and make sure it is securely screened, preferably with a stainless steel mesh. If there is no screening, get it done. The risk is losing the ZC fireplace due to unremovable debris, nuts or bodies trapped inside the metal cabinetry. Failure to do this can be very expensive!
 
This also goes for any appliance with an outdoor air intake including high efficiency furnaces and boilers.