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are vented gas fireplaces safe

by Prof. Ethel Rosenbaum II Published 1 year ago Updated 1 year ago
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A vented gas fireplace is so safe because of the sealed combustion behind its glass. You cannot remove the glass or get access to the flames for the vented gas fireplace to function properly. This might be an advantage to those with small children or pets, but it could also be considered a negative by other people.Jan 23, 2019

Are Ventless Fireplaces safe to use?

Ethanol is a clean burning fuel so this is a ventless appliance. You do not need a chimney to operate the device and it can be in an enclosed space without fear of noxious fumes. It is safe to use around people who have breathing disorders like COPD and asthma, and you can safely use it in the home where children are.

Are unvented fireplace logs considered safe?

Ventless gas fireplaces have severe laws against fume emissions. Below we have attempted to explain the safety features that allow a certified vent-free gas log to be safe indoors without adequate ventilation to remove fumes created when gas burns. For additional information, see our blog site at:

Are ventless gas fireplaces safe?

Ventless gas fireplaces work by using a small, wall-mounted furnace to heat air and expel it through an opening or series of openings in the fireplace. The heated air is then mixed with cold outdoor. Ventless gas fireplaces are safe to use as long as some safety precautions are taken.

Are vent free gas fireplaces dangerous?

Ventless gas fireplaces emit dangerous and noxious gasses into the room they are operating. … Ventless fireplaces produce small amounts of nitrous dioxide and carbon monoxide which can be deadly in large doses.

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Which is better ventless or vented gas fireplace?

Ventless fireplaces are more energy efficient than vented fireplaces because no heat escapes up the flue, so you'll save money on gas utility bills. A vented gas fireplace uses more gas to create the same level of warmth because some of its heat escapes through the flue.

Do Vented gas logs give off carbon monoxide?

Vented gas logs rely on an exhaust or venting system to operate, while ventless gas logs function without any sort of venting system. Just like real burning logs, both types of gas logs produce carbon monoxide — a toxic gas that can be lethal — when they burn.

How long can you run a vented gas fireplace?

In short, you really shouldn't let a gas fireplace on for too long—specifically more than three hours at a time.

Is it safe to sleep with a gas fireplace on?

There is a risk of carbon monoxide poisoning when you sleep in a room where a conventional coal or gas fire, a log burner, a cooker, or a back burner is left on overnight. You cannot feel the early symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning, so it is important that you protect yourself.

Do you need to open a window when using a gas fireplace?

While it may seem counterintuitive to open your windows when using the fireplace for warmth, it is a wise thing to do when it comes to safety. You don't need to open the window all the way, just an inch or two will work fine.

How do I know if my gas fireplace is safe?

A properly operating gas fireplace will have a safe and secure glass enclosure, will ignite without delay, have a clean blueish color flame and will vent properly out through a termination cap that is clear from debris or obstruction.

Can you run a vented gas fireplace all day?

You can run a vented gas fireplace all day with little concern for anything other than gas usage.

Is it OK to leave pilot light on gas fireplace overnight?

It's not safe to leave it on. Why Isn't It Safe? The biggest reason is that gas fireplaces can release deadly carbon monoxide gas, which is odourless and can go unnoticed until a person dies from carbon monoxide poisoning. It is best to not leave your fireplace on for more than three hours at a time.

Can you run a gas fireplace when power is out?

Most gas fireplaces can run without electricity. Gas fireplaces that have a standing or vertical pilot light can light with or without electricity. If your gas fireplace has a different type of ignition system, you will not be able to run it without electricity unless it has a backup battery.

Do gas fireplaces use a lot of gas?

A standard 20,000 BTU gas fireplace will use about 20 cubic feet of natural gas per hour. Given that price of natural gas is about $1.09 per 100 cubic feet, running a standard-sized gas fireplace will cost about $0.22/hour at 100% heating output. In short: Gas fireplaces are quite inexpensive to run.

Is it expensive to run a gas fireplace all day?

Most of the heat that is produced will go up the chimney in this case. For the equivalent in a gas insert or gas fireplace, a large could use about 40,000 BTU/hour and in this case would cost about $0.40/hour to operate for natural gas and about $1.31/hour for propane.

Can a gas fireplace catch fire?

GAS FIREPLACES SAFETY PRECAUTIONS Whenever you use a gas appliance in your home, you run the risk that excess carbon monoxide will poison your family or that an untended gas flame will cause a fire.

How do I prevent carbon monoxide in my fireplace?

Always open dampers before using your fireplace. Do not use generators indoors. Space heaters should only be used in well-ventilated areas. At least once annually, hire a professional chimney sweep to clean and inspect your chimney.

Can you get carbon monoxide poisoning from a ventless gas fireplace?

Ventless fireplaces produce small amounts of nitrous dioxide and carbon monoxide which can be deadly in large doses. The CDC warns against exposure of any level of carbon monoxide, stating that up to 500 people die per year due to accidental carbon monoxide poisoning.

How do I know if my fireplace has carbon monoxide?

0:002:15Carbon Monoxide:How to Check Your Chimney - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipFirst look at your chimney from outside the house check to make sure it's clear of any snow iceMoreFirst look at your chimney from outside the house check to make sure it's clear of any snow ice buildup or debris. Next check your chimney flue or the inside of the chimney.

How do I know if my gas fire is leaking carbon monoxide?

You see black, sooty marks on the front covers of gas fires. There is heavy condensation built up at the windowpane where the appliance is installed. Sooty or yellow/brown stains on or around boilers, stoves, or fires. Smoke building up in rooms.

Why do people use gas fireplaces?

So instead of buying a truckload of firewood, people are turning to gas fireplaces for their ease of use and cost effectiveness.

How long can you leave a gas fireplace on?

If your gas fireplace is fully vented with a sealed glass front, you can technically leave it running as long as you want. If there are no issues with the fireplace, and if everything is working properly, the only thing you’ll need to worry about is making sure it’s supplied with the right amount of gas.

How much maintenance is required for gas fireplaces?

Gas fireplaces require significantly less maintenance than a wood-burning fireplace. There’s no ash and debris clean up. There’s also no annual chimney maintenance, because you don’t need a chimney!

Are Gas Fireplaces Affordable?

There are plenty of options and looks to choose from that will fit within your budget, regardless of what it is. With a variety of styles and brands, there’s a perfect gas fireplace for everyone.

Why Choose Bassemier’s for Your Gas Fireplace?

Bassemier’s only offers the best gas fireplaces on the market, and we have the most knowledgeable staff to help you navigate through any further questions you may have about the product. Stop in today to see how Bassemier’s can help you create the hearth of your dreams!

How much BTU does a gas fireplace use?

A gas fireplace turned to the highest setting will use around 40,000 BTU/hour.

Can you use gas for a fireplace?

Because of this, many people are moving toward a much simpler way of heating up the room — gas. The amount of gas you’ll use completely depends on the brand of gas fireplace you own, the amount of time you leave it on for, and what setting you keep it at.

What is the Difference Between Vented and Ventless Fireplaces?

There are a few key differences between vented fireplaces and ventless fireplaces. The first difference has to do with functionality, the second has to do with aesthetics, and the third has to do with preference:

Are Ventless Fireplaces Safe?

Before you consider whether or not ventless fireplaces are safe, it is important to note that all gas fireplaces could potentially leak carbon monoxide into your home. Blocked chimneys, cracked glass panes, old parts or leaking gas lines can all be responsible for gas leaks from vented gas fireplaces.

Vented Vs. Ventless Fireplaces: Pros and Cons

To make the two types of gas fireplaces a little easier to compare, below is a table with some pertinent facts set side by side. Here is a quick look at a vented vs. ventless fireplace stand up against each other. You may be surprised at the benefits and drawbacks of each:

Which is Better–Direct Vent or Ventless Gas Fireplaces?

As with so many things, when answering which item is better than the other, you have to know as much about what you want as about the differences between the two items. As much is true of vented versus ventless gas fireplaces. The big question to answer is if you are comfortable with ventless.

How to Know if Your Fireplace is Vented or Ventless

You should be told at the time of purchase whether your fireplace is vented or ventless. Because ventless fireplaces are banned in some areas, the distinction should be made very clear. But maybe you have bought a home that has a gas fireplace and you do not really know for sure whether it is vented or ventless.

Can a Ventless Gas Fireplace be Converted to Vented?

If you have a ventless gas fireplace and you either regret buying it or you regret that it was in the home that you bought, you may be wondering if you can convert it to a vented fireplace. It sounds like a reasonable enough idea. It’s a fireplace, just cut a hole in the top, attach a pipe, and stick it through the roof, right?

Conclusion

If the decision is yours to make, then both vented and ventless gas fireplaces are viable options for your home. Keep the controversies surrounding the ventless fireplaces in context. They are best used when used wisely and within the precautions that the manufacturers suggest. Do so and they may be a good source of heat for your home.

Why is vent free fireplace bad?

Because a vent free fireplace doesn't have a flue, the water vapor that is produced as a result of combustion enters into the air of the home. This causes humidity. This can be either a good or a bad thing for the home. Humidity is great in the cold winter months for your skin. It keeps your nose from getting bloody, and your skin from drying out. However, humidity can also cause mold to grow on walls and condensation on the windows. Just monitor it and you should be fine.

What do you need for a vent free fireplace?

All you need is a gas supply line feeding it with fuel (natural gas or propane). There are so many different styles and types of vent-free fireplaces to choose from for your home. They can be just the thing you need to give your room the look it's been missing. When you are choosing out a vent free fireplace for your home be sure to pay close attention to the BTU's. This is how a fireplace is rated, and how much energy it consumes. If you are buying a fireplace for a small room in your house you should find a unit with fewer BTU's. It's important to follow those guidelines when you are picking out your fireplace.

How does a ventless gas fireplace work?

They do not require a flue, vent, or chimney, and can pretty much be installed anywhere. These particular types of fireplaces run off natural gas or propane.

What happens if you don't install vents?

If people don't install them correctly, or use them correctly, they could cause a buildup of carbon monoxide in a room. By doing your homework, and really studying up on these types of fireplaces, you can enjoy the benefits of a vent free fireplace without the safety concerns.

Is a vent free fireplace expensive?

Vent Free Fireplaces are Inexpensive. Because a vent free fireplace doesn't require a vent or chimney they are rather inexpensive to install in a home. Many people even use this type of fireplace as the main heat source in their room.

Is ventless gas safe?

Here are some facts about vent free gas fireplaces. The quick and simple answer to the question, are ventless fireplaces safe is yes, with the proper precautions. Everything in life comes with at least some trace of risk, so when we say it is safe, we mean relatively speaking.

What are Ventless Fireplaces?

Ventless fireplaces release the emissions of their burn, including noxious gases such as nitrous dioxide and carbon monoxide, inside the home instead of outside the home like a direct vent fireplace. Ventless fireplaces use interior air for combustion, which includes anything present in the air and on the burner and release all emissions inside the room they operate – dramatically decreasing the air quality you breathe.

What type of venting is used for a fireplace?

Direct Vent gas fireplaces use outside air for combustion and release all emissions outside the home in a sealed system. Natural Vent gas fireplaces (B-Vent) use air from within the home for combustion ...

What is a B vent?

Natural Vent gas fireplaces (B-Vent) use air from within the home for combustion and release emissions outside the home. Ventless fireplaces use air from within the home and release emissions within the home – resulting in poor air quality and potential health risks. Learn more about the different types of fireplace venting.

How does an electric fireplace work?

Electric fireplaces are the best way to add the warmth, comfort, and ambiance of a fireplace when venting is not an option.

Which states have banned ventless fireplaces?

There are several states and local counties/cities that have banned the sale and installation of indoor ventless fireplaces including California and Massachusetts. For more accurate information about the legality of indoor ventless fireplaces consult your local government ...

Does ventless fireplace cause mold?

In addition to carbon monoxide, ventless fireplaces also produce a high levels of water vapor. The increased level of water vapor in the home will increase humidity, increasing the risk of mold growth.

Can ventless fireplaces be placed in bathrooms?

The National Building Code requires a ventless fireplace to be placed in rooms with a certain square footage and are restricted from being placed in bathrooms and bedrooms. In addition, the building code requires a fresh air source to be within a certain distance of the fireplace. Consult local experts to get specific policies in your area.

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