One fireplace can create a shared focal point for two interior spaces. Ortal Tunnel fireplaces have opposing glass faces, allowing the fire to be enjoyed from both sides of a dividing wall. They can connect a living room and dining area visually while preserving the definition of each space.

Serving the Triangle and surrounding Central North Carolina communities.

Chimneys Plus helps you decide whether a see-through fireplace belongs in the wall you have in mind, and whether the room needs a long, low opening or a taller view. These are complete built-in gas fireplaces, not inserts or two separate fireplaces installed back to back.

A shared fire with carefully planned heat

The current Tunnel collection includes compact and portrait formats such as 40H70, 60×80, 75×65 and 31H, plus 110, 130, 150, 170, 200 and 250 size families with selected H and HH versions. The size name alone does not establish the viewing dimensions or installation footprint.

A see-through opening changes both rooms, so we consider sightlines, furniture clearances, wall depth and where convective heat will be released. Available screen and double-glass arrangements have different requirements. Compatible Heat Control System installations offer another way to manage some enclosure heat, but are not a promise of equal heating in both rooms or whole-home comfort.

Installation and representative specifications

The direct-vent combustion system draws air from outdoors and routes exhaust outdoors. That avoids using the rooms’ already-conditioned air for combustion. The wall enclosure, heat release, gas piping, service access and vent route still require careful coordination.

The Tunnel 110 provides a useful reference:

• Published viewing area: 43 5/8 by 13 3/4 inches.
• Natural-gas input: 22,798–37,167 BTU/hour.
• Propane input: 25,113–35,316 BTU/hour.
• Standard vent: 5-by-8-inch coaxial direct vent.
• Published barrier choices: micro-mesh screen or double glass.
• Required normal electrical supply under the current built-in manual: a 120-volt, 15-amp, 60-Hz duplex receptacle.

Other Tunnel models have their own viewing dimensions, input and vent requirements. The figures above are fuel input, not delivered heat. Standard indoor Tunnel models are not automatically approved for an exterior wall with one face outdoors; that application needs the specific Indoor-Outdoor configuration.

Manufacturer product information: Ortal Tunnel 110.

Bring the rooms together with Chimneys Plus

Chimneys Plus is an authorized Ortal dealer. We handle or coordinate gas piping and required electrical work and handle applicable permits. The Chimneys Plus team includes CSIA- and NFI-certified professionals. Together with our North Carolina general contractor and fuel-piping licenses, these qualifications reflect our commitment to knowledgeable fireplace installation and service.

Contact Chimneys Plus to explore a Tunnel fireplace and plan the wall around both rooms.

Current specifications

• Efficiency (AFUE): 77.8% natural gas, 81.4% propane
• Fuel: natural gas or propane
• Controls: remote, wall switch
• Battery backup: receiver takes 4 AA batteries and can run in a power outage only on screen-barrier units with no options; double glass, power vent or Heat Control System units cannot run on batteries
• Heat barrier: double glass or micro mesh screen; interior Standard Matte; weight 259 lb (DG) / 217 lb (screen)

Source: manufacturer product page. Specifications can change with new model years, so we confirm them against the current documents before you buy.

Related products and services

• Valor LX2 Gas Fireplace
• Valor LX1 Pier Gas Fireplace
• Valor L1 See-Thru Gas Fireplace
• All fireplaces
• Custom fireplace design and installation
• Gas line installation
• GasCheck annual gas fireplace service
• Financing options

Frequently asked questions

Can an Ortal Tunnel fireplace serve two rooms?

Yes, it provides a fire view on opposite sides of a dividing wall. We plan the heat release and room layout with both spaces in mind; the fireplace does not guarantee equal temperatures on both sides.

Is an Ortal Tunnel fireplace suitable for an indoor-outdoor installation?

Only with the specifically approved Indoor-Outdoor model and kit arrangement. A standard indoor Tunnel installation should not be exposed to outdoor conditions. Chimneys Plus can help you select the correct version.

Can an Ortal Tunnel fireplace provide heat during a power outage?

Yes, an eligible basic screen-barrier configuration can operate using four AA receiver batteries with the gas supply available. The current built-in manual restricts this to configurations without lights, power vent, Heat Control System or Wi-Fi. Double-glass units are not battery-operable. We confirm eligibility for the exact fireplace and explain battery replacement and operation at installation.

Does an Ortal Tunnel fireplace still need electricity if it has battery capability?

Yes. The current built-in installation manual requires a 120-volt duplex receptacle for the normal installation. Optional systems add their own electrical considerations; Chimneys Plus coordinates the required work.

Can an Ortal Tunnel fireplace replace an existing two-sided fireplace?

It may be a good replacement, but dimensions alone are not enough. We assess the existing enclosure, vent path, heat-release design, clearances and access before deciding what must be rebuilt.

Will Chimneys Plus handle the gas line and permits for an Ortal Tunnel fireplace?

Yes. We verify the supply capacity and handle or coordinate needed piping work. We also confirm and handle applicable permitting, including replacement work with an existing gas connection.

What maintenance does an Ortal Tunnel fireplace need?

At least annual professional inspection and maintenance are required. Both glass faces, seals, the burner, pilot, venting and airflow paths need appropriate attention. Approved barriers must be fitted before operation.