Outdoor Kitchen Venting – Propane & Natural Gas Grills

🔧 PURPOSE

Ensure the safe and efficient release of combustible gas vapors (propane or natural gas) from built-in grill enclosures in outdoor kitchens.

🔥 WHY VENTS ARE REQUIRED

Both propane and natural gas are flammable gases that can accumulate in enclosed spaces. Proper venting:

Prevents buildup of gas in the event of a leak.

Allows heavier-than-air propane to escape near the floor.

Allows lighter-than-air natural gas to escape near the top.

Reduces risk of explosion or fire.

Meets most local building codes and manufacturer installation guidelines.

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✅ GENERAL VENTING GUIDELINES

Always follow the appliance manufacturer's installation manual.

Vents should be installed on opposing sides of the enclosure to allow for cross ventilation.

Vents must remain unobstructed and free of debris or sealant.

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🧯 PROPANE (LP) GAS VENTING

Location of Vents: Near the bottom of the structure (within 5" of the base).

Minimum Vent Size: 10 in² per vent.

Number of Vents: Minimum of (2) vents on opposite sides.

Reason: Propane is heavier than air and will sink and accumulate in low spots.

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💨 NATURAL GAS (NG) VENTING

Location of Vents: Near the top of the structure (within 5" of the top).

Minimum Vent Size: 10 in² per vent.

Number of Vents: Minimum of (2) vents on opposite sides.

Reason: Natural gas is lighter than air and will rise.

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⚠️ MIXED GAS SYSTEMS

If the system may be converted in the future or unknown during design:

Install vents both high and low to accommodate both gas types.

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🔩 VENT TYPES & PLACEMENT

Use stainless steel or powder-coated aluminum louvered vents to prevent rust and allow airflow.

Recess flush into stone or stucco kitchen faces.

Keep clear of framing, cabinet backs, and insulation materials.

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📝 PRATT GUYS STANDARD NOTES

"INSTALL TWO VENTS MIN. – 10 IN² EACH – LOW FOR LP OR HIGH FOR NG ON OPPOSITE SIDES OF GRILL ENCLOSURE. IF GAS TYPE UNKNOWN OR CONVERTIBLE, INSTALL HIGH AND LOW VENTS."

"DO NOT BLOCK OR SEAL VENTS. ALL VENTING TO BE PER MANUFACTURER SPEC AND LOCAL CODE."

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