We need an expert in design of fireplaces. We have a gas fireplace that does not draw properly and would like to modify it so that it does draw. If you know of someone with that expertise, please contact us. Ed Kraft 6846-0912
LOL... I am not an expert! Similar problem with a wood fp... did some research... often negative pressure... some troubleshooting you can do - check for openings above the fp allowing air to escape from the house (warm air rises), but an opening near the fp allowing air to enter may help. Be sure the flue is not blocked. Draft may be improved by reducing the size of the fp opening. Try reducing the size like with a damp towel (don't want a fire) and see what happens.
I make sure the upper windows are closed and had glass doors built for the fp opening. They effectively allow me to control the opening, plus close it off at night (wood burner). Not a 100% solution (wind) but a vast improvement.
Remember, not an expert, just sharing...
Hi Edwin, Without seeing you situation it is hard to tell but usually the key to a good draft for either wood or gas burning is the height of outside flue. If it is lower than the pitch of the roof it will not draft properly.
You can look up online the installation of flue for wood stoves and see some good examples of this.
You might also look into a top of chimney Stainless Steel exhaust fan. I have used these successfully in older homes after I reduced the interior volume of the chiminey with an incert.