How to Vent Gas Heaters in Basements

Choose a location for your gas heater. Place it against an exterior wall to make venting it as easy as possible. Locate it against a non-combustible wall made out of cement block or brick.

Move the heater to the location you have selected.

Fit the vent sections to the heater and to each other without sealing them; this is a test-run for measurement purposes. Add on sections until the venting reaches a height of at least 12 inches above the ground outside. Attach the 90 degree elbow section of venting once you’ve reached that point.

Place the face of the horizontal portion of the elbow section against the wall; trace around it with a marker or pencil to mark the location and size on the wall.

Remove all venting from the heater and store it out of the way. Cover the heater with the plastic.

Use the drill and masonry bit to drill holes into the wall along the line you just traced. Keep the holes as close together as you can manage.

Knock out all bricking or cement from the hole using the masonry chisel and the rubber mallet. Go outside and use the chisel to work your way inside the hole if necessary.

Remove the plastic sheet and the debris on top of it. Attach the vent sections to the heater and to each other again. Snap all the collars into place. Run the horizontal portions through the hole in the wall to the exterior of your home. Check the fit of all sections inside and outside of your home.

Install the vent cap on the end of the vent section outside of your home. Use the high-temperature sealant to seal the cap against your home’s exterior.