How to vent an outdoor fireplace

Fireplaces have been at the heart of the home for centuries, providing warmth, comfort, and a gathering place for family and friends. While the charm of a crackling fire remains, ventilation technology has evolved for improved safety and performance. 

In this article, we explain the types of ventilation required for an outdoor fireplace. We cover the differences between gas and wood burners, as well as the various types of ventilation you can use. We also explore how ventilation improves health, comfort, and combustion to create the outdoor space you’ve been dreaming of. 

How to vent an outdoor fireplace

In a fireplace, venting allows fresh air to enter the fire and circulate any fumes back out. Most outdoor fireplaces are open but some also feature direct vents to the outside or vertical vents through a chimney. 

Source: escea.

Open fireplaces

An open fireplace uses natural convection to circulate air, drawing the air in front inside and then expelling any smoke upward through a chimney.

Basic venting 

Basic venting systems are not fully sealed, drawing air into the combustion chamber from a separate area. 

Direct vent technology

A direct vent features a sealed combustion system, pulling air in through a direct vent and then back out in the same direction. As a result, the fire won’t impact the air quality of your outdoor space. 

If you’re interested in an outdoor fireplace but don’t know where to start, we have a helpful article covering the top reasons to choose one of our outdoor fireplaces. 

Does your outdoor fireplace need venting?

With effective airflow, any smoke and vapours are directed up and out of the surrounding area. Vents also enhance the strength of the fire, improving the heat output and supporting even combustion. 

Wood vs gas outdoor fires

Depending on the fuel type you want to use, the ventilation requirements will vary. For a gas fireplace, you will need exhaust vents to redirect any fumes. This is particularly important for health and safety, ensuring any harmful gases are directed away from your loved ones. 

For a wood-burning fireplace, you will need a chimney, however, this is mostly to promote even combustion. In terms of safety, a wood-burning fireplace is the best choice. While they will produce smoke, it is directed up the chimney. 

Reduce creosote and soot

Creosote is a tar-like substance which forms inside the chimney from burned wood fragments and dry vapours. This creates a fire and health hazard but can be reduced with adequate ventilation. Soot is another by-product of wood burning, forming a fine black powder. It can create a fire hazard and impact your health, requiring effective ventilation to promote air circulation. 

Improve efficiency and performance

Airflow promotes even burning in your outdoor fireplace, ensuring a steady oxygen supply to feed the flames. This enables consistency, meaning the fire can burn steadily and provide plenty of heat all year round. 

Do our outdoor fireplaces have ventilation?

At Trendz, we have a range of pre-designed concrete fireplaces which are delivered and installed within one day. We can also create a bespoke design for you, incorporating all your landscaping preferences. The ventilation for these options is slightly different, as detailed below. 

Precast outdoor fireplaces

We’ve designed our range of precast concrete fireplaces with built-in ventilation. These models are engineered for optimal performance and airflow, directing the smoke up and away from your outdoor space. Since we’ve done all the calculations in advance, you can simply install the precast shell and light the fire that same day.

Custom outdoor fireplace NZ

For a custom fireplace, we will need to incorporate ventilation into the design. This may impact the time to create your bespoke fireplace, factoring in the calculations on how to maximise airflow. When the fireplace is installed on-site, we will ensure everything is performing at its best. 

Outdoor wood fireplace NZ

Are you ready to elevate your outdoor space? Can you smell the wood-fired smoke and hear the crackle of flames? It’s time to create memories around your outdoor fire, cooking, talking, and soaking up the moments. 

Download our outdoor fireplace brochure to explore our favourite fireplace designs, specifications, accessories, and customisation options.