Heat Pumps and Electric Heating - Gas Log near Heat Pump Unit

I have an area in a basement room I am finishing that I was considering putting a 32" Firebox for an 18" Vent free Gas Log. The area is adjacent to the internal exchanger for my Heat Pump. It would have about 6" clearnce on the side and about half the "depth" of the area so there will be space around it, also the area where the heat pump is will not be finished and it is accessible. Is this a bad idea? Please take a look at the picture on my site, it is the area where the boxes and the floor fan is setting.
Thanks FF




http://mysite.verizon.net/rmacfarland/

1st off those vent frees are outlawed in many states and Canada due to safety reasons. If the safety fails you'll fill the place with CO.

If you're gonna do it anyway what do the instructions say about clearances ?? I wouldn't want a CO producing machine next to my airhandler. Just not a good idea.

I agree with Matt.

A friend of mine brought a house a while back that had vent-free, it was bad news.. It added alot of moister into the home, and also it gave off orders. They end up taking it out, and replaced it with a direct vent, all the exhuast going outside. NOT in your home.

I also have to agree. A ventless fireplace is not a good idea. It looks like everything else is being done very well. You may need to check the local codes for the breaker box but I believe the working area around the box is to be 30 inches wide from floor to ceiling and extending 36 inches out from the box. There can be no pipes, ducts or other obstructions in that area.

Thanks for all the feedback. I was not aware of all of the negatives on the vent free logs. There is one upstairs that was in the house when we bought it and we use it on occasion - that is why I was thinking of putting one in the basement. Also thanks for the feedback on the closet...... Its 40" wide and roughed for 32" door, 36" deep and 8' head ht.

FF