Can Updraft Gas Furnaces Be Used Horizontally?

Operation

• Installing an updraft furnace horizontally is a possibility, but when doing so you should know that the manufacturer didn't specifically create the unit to perform in that manner. That fact should cause you to pause, especially when dealing with something as dangerous as a home heating system. The operation of the furnace may not be possible in all situations. For instance, a gas furnace may have a backdraft that prevents the system from properly operating because the draft constantly puts out the pilot light.

Draft Regulation

• Draft regulation is a primary consideration when installing a furnace. Updraft furnaces are made specifically for the purpose of drafting upward. This process is controlled by a draft regulator. The draft regulator controls the vent pressure in the furnace flue and ensures that the combustion gases escape to the outside. Those that are installed horizontally must be reconfigured specifically for horizontal orientation. However, this is something that should be done by a qualified technician.

Door

• The door of the furnace is also manufactured in such a way that it is made for a specific orientation. Furnace doors have to remain sealed shut yet easy to open. The inner workings of a gas furnace can't be exposed to the rest of the home due to possible fire hazards. There should be no possibility of the door accidentally swinging open in the event that you install it horizontally instead of vertically. Certain door attachments are available that make horizontal installation possible.

Materials

• The final consideration that needs to be made in the switch from vertical to horizontal venting is whether or not the furnace flue pipe is properly rated for horizontal venting. Chances are that you will need to either vent to the outside in a horizontal fashion, or at least have a flue with an elbow leading to a vertical flue. High efficiency furnaces, especially, must be carefully configured and installed using the correct flue vent materials to ensure that no risk of fire hazard or gas backup occurs.