Concentric and side wall vent kits

What is going on

Concentric and side wall kits are the two ready-made options for direct vent terminations. What I usually see go wrong is someone using the side wall kit on a single pipe install, which does not work. These kits come with their own instructions and installation specs, so follow those, not guesses. The concentric kit is the DCVK. The side wall kit is for 2 in or 3 in direct vent systems only.

Likely causes

• Using the side wall kit on a single pipe (indirect vent) install
• Side wall kit not terminating outside the structure
• Kit instructions not followed, so spacing is wrong
• Wrong pipe size for the kit

Check in this order

1. For concentric termination, follow the directions supplied with the Concentric Vent Kit (DCVK).
2. Side wall vent kit is for 2 in or 3 in direct vent systems only.
3. Side wall kit must terminate outside the structure.
4. Intake and exhaust may be side by side or one above the other.
5. Do not use the side wall kit on single pipe (indirect vent) installs.
6. Follow the directions furnished with the side wall kit for installation specs.
7. Confirm clearances to grade and snow level before final assembly.

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