Do you need the vent open with a gas fireplace?
Not all gas fireplaces need venting. Both natural vent and direct vent gas fireplaces need venting, which exhaust air up a chimney and through the wall to the outside respectively. Ventless gas fireplaces don’t need venting.
How to vent a gas fireplace without a chimney?
You can use the following five methods for this purpose:
- The Side Wall method. ...
- The Ridge method, which is ideal for vented Gas Fireplaces that have been converted to ventless fireplaces by removing the chimney and installing a cap on top of the fireplace ...
- The Wall method is similar to the Side Wall, which you can install on top of an exterior wall without insulation around the flue pipe. ...
Are unvented gas log fireplaces right for your home?
When used properly and maintained vigilantly, ventless gas fireplaces can be a safe and cozy addition to your home. However, it is important to understand the pros and cons of these units and to take certain safety precautions to keep you and your family safe.
Do gas fireplaces need annual maintenance?
This is due to their relative ease of operation and cleaner burn than solid fuel models. However, this doesn't mean that your gas fireplace requires no maintenance. Because of their lower combustion temperatures, gas models often harbor spiders in the gas valve area and in the corners of the combustion chamber.
Do you have to vent propane fireplace?
Gas fireplaces need to be vented by a chimney or other vent, unless you have a ventless gas fireplace. Ventless gas fireplaces do not need ventilation and are designed to burn cleaner with a lower flame that will not smoke. If your gas fireplace is not a ventless model, then it will likely need a vent of some sort.
How do you vent a propane fireplace?
Venting horizontally—through a wall—is a simple solution, ideal in cases where a gas fireplace is being installed on an exterior wall. Venting can be as easy as running pipe from the back of the fireplace out through the wall, then installing a termination cap.
Which is better vented or ventless propane 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.
What happens if you don't vent a gas fireplace?
Without proper ventilation and safety systems in place there can be serious health risks associated with burning gas in a ventless fireplace. Ventless fireplaces produce small amounts of nitrous dioxide and carbon monoxide which can be deadly in large doses.
Do propane fireplaces dry out the air?
Gas fireplaces make the air dry and create moisture–that is the answer to the question.
Are propane fireplaces safe?
Propane Is Safe Propane fireplaces are safe. Unlike a traditional fireplace, propane fireplaces do not have an open flame. A direct vent fireplace has glass protection. This prevents your children from accidental burns.
What states have banned ventless gas fireplaces?
Massachusetts, California, and a number of other states in the U.S., as well as Canada and other countries, have outlawed ventless gas fireplaces due to the aforementioned safety concerns. Many individual municipalities, too, have outlawed these appliances in states where they are otherwise legal.
Do propane fireplaces heat well?
Propane is Efficient and Effective Propane fireplaces provide six times the heating capacity of wood burning models, making it a lot easier to heat your home. They offer Fireplace Efficiency (FE) ratings of over 90%, compared to the 15% FE of wood-burning fireplaces.
Are vented propane fireplaces safe?
In general, vented fireplaces are better in terms of safety and function. However, most of the heat is lost through chimneys, so consider using a direct vent. Ventless fireplaces are still a great option and are safe when used properly.
Can propane fireplace produce carbon monoxide?
Oil, propane, and natural gas fired heating systems, gas appliances and fireplaces all release carbon monoxide as they burn and can be health and fire hazards.
How long can you run a non vented gas fireplace?
For one, these ventless fireplaces aren't meant to be installed in bedrooms or rooms without ample square footage. Guidelines also advise that they shouldn't be run for too long (typically no more than two hours).
Can you have a fireplace without a vent?
Ventless fireplaces are also known as "unvented" or "vent-free" fireplaces. They're a type of fireplace that pipes natural gas or propane into a gas-burning unit. The flames reach up through gaps in artificial ceramic fiber logs.
How do you run a vent on a gas fireplace?
1:274:23How to Install a Direct Vent Fireplace (2020) - eFireplaceStore - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipMake sure that the dimples on each pipe align with the channels on the flue collar. And firmly twistMoreMake sure that the dimples on each pipe align with the channels on the flue collar. And firmly twist the pipe clockwise until it stops. Moving double check the connection by pulling up on the pipe.
How do I know if my fireplace is venting properly?
Common Chimney Venting Issues A difficult-to-light fire – A properly functioning chimney makes an easy-to-light fire. If your fire is difficult to light or maintain a flame, there is likely a venting issue that prevents the fire from getting the right amount of oxygen.
Can you vent propane heater through chimney?
Up and Out. A gas stove can be vented through an existing chimney, whether it is a manufactured or masonry chimney. To ensure proper venting, however, a liner must first be installed in the chimney. The size of the liner should match the size and type of stove.
Can you vent a gas fireplace through the floor?
Since there is no requirement for rise, power-vented systems can also be routed downward into floor space below and then terminated through a sidewall.
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.
What degrees can a gas fireplace vent be?
For the most part, vented gas fireplaces allow the use of 90-, 45-, and 30-degree elbows. Moreover, most gas fireplace vent systems allow the use of flexible vent pipe, which of course can create any offset from 0-90 degrees.
How far away from a fireplace vent should a chimney be?
For the purposes of venting, the key difference is that a fireplace must have a dedicated chimney or vent system that can be located within 2 or 3 inches of combustible materials (such as inside a wood chimney chase or near an exterior wall), but an insert requires use of chimney liner that runs within an existing, functional, fully non-combustible chimney (such as a brick chimney with a clay or terracotta flue or a stainless steel pipe).
What type of pipe is used for a fireplace?
Each hearth appliance requires a particular type of vent pipe, which are categorized accordingly. For example, a solid-fuel appliance, such as a wood burning or coal-burning stove, uses Class A chimney pipe, which is made to withstand the higher flue gas temperatures produced by that fuel. The inside wall of these double- or triple-wall pipes is stainless steel for this purpose. Direct vent fireplaces, on the other hand, use natural gas or propane as their fuel, and the exhaust fumes are significantly less hot. As such, the direct vent gas pipe that is used on these units has an aluminum inner wall.
What is an unvented fireplace?
The term "unvented", "ventless" or "vent-free" is applied to hearth appliances that burn gas (natural gas or propane) and do not require any kind of chimney or vent system. This terminology is also used to describe other niche-type fireplaces such as electric and ethanol models.
How much clearance does a chimney need?
Class A chimney usually has a 2-inch clearance to combustibles, and a type B gas vent normally has 1-inch clearance. Vent pipe for a direct gas fireplace is unique. It typically has a 1-inch clearance when it is run vertically, but when it is run horizontally the clearance requirements vary.
What are the drawbacks of ventless fireplaces?
Finally, another drawback to vent-free units is the lack of realism. Since these models must burn cleanly, a ventless log set or unvented gas fireplace is not going to produce the same flames seen in a real wood fire, and these also cannot match the more realistic effects seen in a vented gas fireplace.
How many degrees of elbows are allowed on a vented gas fireplace?
For the most part, vented gas fireplaces allow the use of 90-, 45-, and 30-degree elbows.
How do you know if you need to maintain a propane fireplace?
Here are 6 signs that propane fireplace maintenance is needed and what you can do to about each: 1. Pilot Light Problems Indicate a Need for Propane Fireplace Maintenance. As is the case with a gas furnace. propane fireplaces have a built-in pilot light as well. Your gas fireplace manufacturer should have left you with instructions on how ...
How do you know if you need propane fireplace maintenance?
Another one of the most common signs that propane fireplace maintenance help is needed is a fireplace that switches on and off unexpectedly. This issue requires the help of a professional technician.
What is a propane fireplace made of?
Your propane fireplace is made up of gas and valve connections where dangerous leaks can occur. The thermopile and thermocouple should be cleaned regularly and so should the ceramic logs that come with the fireplace. The logs should also be carefully placed within the fireplace to allow full functionality.
Why does my fireplace smell like rotten eggs?
If you ever smell something like rotten eggs emitting from your fireplace, this is a sure sign that maintenance is a must. This smell is indicative of a gas leak and a gas leak can be very dangerous.
Why does my fireplace make a roaring noise?
If your fireplace makes roaring or rumbling noises, it could be due to dirty burners. Shrieking noises are usually the result of a problem with the blower. A blower replacement might be necessary for this situation.
What to do when your fireplace is not working?
The best thing to do is to turn off your fireplace and call a professional for assistance so you don’t put yourself or anyone in your household at risk of injury.
Why is there soot on my fireplace?
Too much soot can also be the result of a dirty chimney.
What is a power vented gas fireplace?
This allows for longer vent runs. Power vented gas fireplaces can be installed where other types of fireplaces might not work, such as a freestanding wall.
Why is vent free heating so efficient?
Since there is no venting, all of the warmth generated from the fire stays in the room where it is installed. For this reason, vent-free systems are up to 99% efficient! Without venting, the pollutants from combustion also remain in the room where the fireplace, gas log set, or stove is installed. For air quality concerns, vent-free hearth products ...
What is a natural vent?
Natural vent (also referred to as B-vent) hearth products take in combustion air from inside the home and vent products of combustion outside home via a brick and mortar chimney or pipe venting system installed through the roof . Some Natural vent hearth products have a sensor to extinguish the fire in case exhaust gasses ever reverse and come down the flue.
How efficient are natural vents?
Some Natural vent hearth products can be as little as 20% efficient, making them the least efficient units available. They do produce the most attractive flame pattern and have flexibility with vent pipe runs. However, even though they may be less expensive to install, they are more sensitive to air flow inside the home.
Is a direct vent fireplace good for a new home?
Direct vent fireplaces are the most popular choice for homeowners. In fact, 90% of gas fireplaces are sold direct-vent because of their increased safety, efficiency, and versatility (Source: Build with Propane ). In terms of versatility, you can vent a direct-vent fireplace horizontally or through the roof. They can be installed almost anywhere! From a heating standpoint, a direct-vent fireplace will be around 70%-85% efficient. Direct-vent fireplaces are best for newer, more air tight homes.
Is direct vent heating safe?
Direct-vent hearth products are the safest option for supplemental heating. Direct-vent systems transfer the combustion fumes and pollutants outside the home via a chimney or an opening on the exterior of the home. These fireplaces will typically have a sealed pane of glass on the front of the fireplace. Most homeowners who choose direct-vent models enjoy the peace of mind of knowing that all odors and pollutants are being vented outside of their home and not in the air they breathe.
Can you vent a fireplace through the roof?
In terms of versatility, you can vent a direct-vent fireplace horizontally or through the roof. They can be installed almost anywhere! From a heating standpoint, a direct-vent fireplace will be around 70%-85% efficient. Direct-vent fireplaces are best for newer, more air tight homes.
How much does a ventless gas fireplace cost?
Ventless gas fireplaces, on the other hand, will cost between $1,000 and $5,000.
What causes condensation in a gas fireplace?
Condensation. Ventless gas fireplaces release the natural air vapors right back into the home, which raises the humidity. This can cause condensation on windows or doors. The higher humidity can create problems with wooden pieces, such as floors or doorways.
Can ventless gas fireplaces smell?
With the air vapors of a ventless gas fireplace, you will also get the smells of gasoline and soot into your home. Depending on your preference, this could be uncomfortable or undesirable. If you suffer from a respiratory illness, such as asthma, this may cause some discomfort or difficulty breathing.
Can you install a ventless gas fireplace anywhere?
Easy to Install Anywhere. Without needing to vent the air outside, this gives you a lot of flexibility in terms of where you can install your ventless gas fireplace . These can be installed in a lot of places that vented gas fireplaces cannot be installed. For example, it can be installed on a wall that is not venting to the outside, ...
Does a ventless fireplace heat up the chimney?
Since the air vapors are redirected back into the home with a ventless gas fireplace, no heat is lost up the chimney or flue. As a result, this makes your ventless gas fireplace very efficient at heating up the room fully and quickly.
Can a ventless gas fireplace be installed outside?
Since the ventless gas fireplace vents directly into the home, it does not need to be placed in a spot where it can vent to the outside. So, ventless gas fireplaces could be installed in areas like the interior of a home (without a chimney) – places that vented gas fireplaces could not ever be installed.
Is a vented gas fireplace safe?
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.
Why is a ventless fireplace more efficient than a vented 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.
What is ventless fireplace?
A ventless fireplace ( view example on Amazon) contains a regulator that produces a fine mixture of gas and air in a way that allows the gas to burn cleanly. This greatly reduces the fumes associated with traditional gas fireplaces.
How does a gas fireplace work?
A traditional vented gas fireplace ( view example on Amazon ), fueled by either natural gas or propane, has two vents that run to the exterior of the house. The intake vent draws fresh air into the fireplace while the exhaust vent safely removes fumes of the combustion (burning) process.
Why does a ventless fireplace shut off automatically?
Because a ventless fireplace does not have a fresh air intake vent, the fire burns the oxygen in the room. If the oxygen drops to an unhealthy low, the oxygen detector will shut off the fireplace automatically. Likewise, should the CO detector sense carbon monoxide, it will also shut off the fireplace automatically.
How much does it cost to install a gas fireplace?
The intake vent draws fresh air into the fireplace while the exhaust vent safely removes fumes of the combustion (burning) process. You’ll pay $3,500 to $8,000 or more, depending on fireplace quality and the amount of remodeling to be done, to purchase a vented gas fireplace and have it professionally installed.
How to know if you have carbon monoxide in your house?
Install additional CO detectors throughout your house. Carbon monoxide is odorless and tasteless, and if the detector on your fireplace malfunctions, the other detectors will let you know if carbon monoxide is present in your home.
How far away should you keep flammables from a fireplace?
Keep flammables, such as draperies, upholstered furniture, blankets and papers a minimum of three feet away from the fireplace and warn young children not to touch its surface, which can become very hot.