Help with corner clearances (Vogelzang 1120)

[dcaisenbrey]

I've ordered a Vogelzang 1120 that I'm planning to install in a corner with appropriate heat shielding on the walls, but I was hoping to get a little clarification on clearance reductions - namely: how do I know if I can reduce the clearance below the commonly-referenced 12" minimum?

The unshielded corner clearance from the manual is 14", so a 66% reduction would be 4.62", which would make this corner layout a LOT easier, but I also want my insurance to be happy with me. All the manual says is "To reduce flue clearances from combustible materials, contact your local safety department."

 

[Wisco Shepherd]

The short answer (with my understanding of code) is that if you are going to follow code you can't get closer than 12 even with shielding. The 66% reduction caps out at 12 inches of clearance. You can heat shield, mason block, and rockwool to your hearts content and it may "work". However, it wont be to code and your home insurance may bite you if something happens.

 

[begreen]

The manual passes the buck, leaving this question up to the local inspecting authority. To go that route, submit the drawings and desired clearance. They may say no less than 12" using an NFPA 211 wall shielding system. For any clearance reduction get signed permission in writing and verify in writing that the insurance company accepts this plan.

From the manual:
To reduce flue clearances from combustible materials, contact your local safety department.