Frequently Asked Questions

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FAQ: Outdoor Fireplaces

Outdoor Fireplaces

What types of outdoor fireplaces are there?

There are a wide variety of outdoor fires to choose from, in many different sizes. Wood and gas are the most common fuel types.

Escea wood models include the EW5000 and EK Series - both outdoor wood fires that must be built into a surrounding structure. The Fire Table is also fuelled by wood (or charcoal) but doesn’t require installation – it’s freestanding just like a piece of outdoor furniture. All Escea outdoor wood fires benefit from cooking capabilities with removable grills.

Escea also has the popular EF5000 outdoor gas fireplace. The EF5000 doesn’t require a flue and can be installed into an inbuilt structure, or purchased with an optional freestanding kitset enclosure. Unlike an outdoor wood fire, the EF5000 simply turns on at the touch-of-a-button.

Learn more about Escea’s range of outdoor fires here.

Do I need a flue for an outdoor fireplace?

It depends what type of outdoor fireplace you have. A wood fireplace requires good ventilation and a flue – this is because the fumes created from the wood smoke need to be exhausted away from people. A gas fireplace doesn’t produce smoke so a flue is not necessary,  but it still requires adequate ventilation.

For all product specifications, flue and ventilation requirements make sure you refer to the manufacturer’s installation manual.

What can I surround my outdoor fireplace in?

Gas fireplaces with Zero Clearance ratings can be installed straight into a timber-framed or masonry cavity, making installation straight-forward and hassle-free. Zero Clearance technology allows gas fireplaces to be surrounded in most materials, even timber. 

Wood fireplaces must be installed into a fully non-combustible fireplace construction, for example, solid concrete, masonry blocks, bricks or Hebel. Timber framing mustn’t be used to install a wood fire.

If you don’t have a suitable structure for the installation, Escea offers an optional Kitset Enclosure. This is a ready-to-be-assembled steel frame skeleton and fastenings.

Make sure you check each model’s installation guide for more information.

Can I cook on my outdoor fireplace?

An outdoor fireplace makes a great barbecue. Look for an outdoor fireplace with cooking capabilities, not only do they allow you the dual function of both a fireplace and BBQ, they are also more likely to be compliant with your local council (urban areas generally require your outdoor wood fire to be for cooking and entertainment purposes). Check with your local authority to find out which permits or building consents you need.

All Escea outdoor wood fires are designed with dual function in mind – as both an outdoor fireplace and cooking appliance. The grills are easily removable which means once you’ve finished cooking, simple take the grills off and they transform from barbecue to outdoor fireplace.

Learn more about the outdoor range of cooking fires here.

Can an outdoor fire be attached to the house?

Yes but installation needs to meet certain requirements. When the appliance forms part of a building, or is installed attached to the building, then the entire appliance must be fully enclosed in concrete material (concrete block and/or poured concrete) of 140mm thickness or greater. Cladding over the concrete cavity can consist of any heat resistant material.

Please make sure you contact the Architectural Advisory team if you are unsure or see the Building and Architect sheets for full specifications and install requirements.

Is there an indoor-outdoor fire?

Yes. The Double Sided DX Series can be installed on an exterior wall so you can see right through the flames to the outside. If you’re looking for an indoor-outdoor fireplace, make sure you touch base with our Architectural Advisory team to ensure you meet all specification and install requirements.

Learn more about the DX Series here.

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