Remodeling 1950s gas fireplace with heatilator

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thejonr

New Member
Sep 7, 2019
2
Royal Oak, Michigan
Hey guys! New homeowner here in the fine state of Michigan. I've got a gas, all metal, wood fireplace converted before I bought the home. I was told the fireplace hadn't been used in 10 years so an inspector was brought in and all the lines, chimney and everything was tested and determined to be in "great condition, especially for its age". Sweet!

Now I'm doing some remodel work on the face of the fireplace and am looking at the possibility of covering the heatilator vents. There does not seem to be any electrical blower or much draft at all. I'd like to seal off the lower two vents and the upper vents as well. I've read through a ton of forum posts but they all seem to reference a wood burning fireplace. Since this is already gas, I'm not sure where that leaves me. I've attached a few photos for reference.

Any help would be hugley appreciated!

Thanks,
Jon
 

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Last edited:
The vents must remain open. They are necessary for cooling the cabinet in addition to convective room heating.