A ventless gas fireplace insert is an enclosed box that fits inside of your fireplace. It helps trap heat and contains the flame. Like built-ins, the fireplace box reduces air leaks, is smokeless, and lowers energy bills by keeping heat inside instead of venting it out.
How do you insert a gas fireplace?
Part 3 Part 3 of 3: Installing Your Gas Fireplace
- Insert the wall-pass-through. Inside the house, put high-temperature caulk on the inside surfaces of the hole you created.
- Complete the direct venting system. Install all remaining piping inside and outside of the house. ...
- Hire licensed contractors to install and connect the gas line and electricity. ...
- Build an optional frame around your fireplace. ...
How long can I run a ventless fireplace?
Manufacturers offer a variety of guidelines and restrictions that aim to mitigate harm. 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). Click to see full answer.
What is the best gas fireplace?
- BEST OVERALL: Napoleon Grandville VF Series GVF36-2N 37″ Vent Free
- BEST FLEXIBILITY: Empire Loft Series DVL25 Fireplace Insert
- BEST DUAL FUEL: Superior DRI2000 Gas Fireplace Insert
- BEST DIRECT VENT: Empire Tahoe Deluxe 36″ Direct-Vent NG Millivolt
- MOST VERSATILE: Ashley Hearth Products 34,000 BTU Vent Free Firebox
Are vent free gas fireplaces safe?
Vent-free gas log sets and fireplaces are totally safe. Despite what some dealers and websites will tell you. They just want to sell you something that’s more expensive and inefficient. The Dept of Energy rates a Vented Log Set or Fireplace as Decorative Gas Appliance. Vent-free is rated as a Decorative Supplemental Gas Heating Appliance.
Are vent free gas fireplaces safe?
Are Ventless Gas Fireplaces Safe? Ventless gas fireplaces emit dangerous and noxious gasses into the room they are operating. Without proper ventilation and safety systems in place there can be serious health risks associated with burning gas in a ventless fireplace.
What is the difference between a vented and ventless gas fireplace insert?
Gas fireplaces come in two configurations: vented and ventless. Vented gas logs produce carbon monoxide emissions so your fireplace must have a chimney or flue. Ventless logs do not put off these emissions so no chimney or flue is needed, and the heat is more likely to stay in your space.
What are the pros and cons of a ventless gas fireplace?
Ventless Gas Fireplace Pros & ConsPros of Vent Free UnitsCons of Vent Free UnitsSince ventless gas products require no vent or chimney, they cost less to install, compared to vented gas appliances.Since ventless gas logs exhaust into the home, there is an added risk over vented gas fireplaces.6 more rows•Jul 2, 2019
Can a vent free gas fireplace be vented?
Answer: Unfortunately, there is no way to convert a ventless fireplace into a vented fireplace. Ventless fireplaces are not designed to have a vent added to them. Your only alternative is to tear out the existing ventless fireplace and replace it with a vented fireplace.
Does a vent free fireplace need a chimney?
Ventless fireplaces are typically freestanding units that don't require a flue or chimney to exhaust combustion air to the outdoors, making them relatively easy to install in any room.
What states ban vent free fireplaces?
Vent-Free fireplaces have been very controversial in the fireplace industry for over decades. Many argue that these fireplaces are unsafe. In fact, in 1996, they were banned by Alaska, Montana, Minnesota, New York, and Massachusetts, however, after strong influence by the industry, all but California still bans them.
What type of fireplace insert is best?
Overall, gas inserts are good bets for those who operate appliances via gas, individuals looking for the best value (Gas units heat small spaces well, ultimately saving on gas bills), and those wanting ease and convenience of use (They burn cleanly, requiring little chimney maintenance and are lit by means of a pilot ...
Which is better direct vent or ventless fireplaces?
If you're looking for a fireplace that won't have any interaction with the air inside your home, then a Direct Vent fireplace is the best choice for you. Direct Vent fireplaces are an excellent way to create a warm and inviting focal point without affecting your indoor air quality.
Which is warmer vented or ventless fireplace?
Ventless fireplaces produce more heat than vented fireplaces, but vented fireplaces look better. The different strengths of the two types of units will appeal to different people.
Do vent free gas logs need a chimney?
Ventless gas logs are extremely efficient and will provide an exceptional amount of heat for your room. They don't require a chimney or venting, allowing all of the heat produced to circulate back into the room, rather than escaping up the chimney. Ventless gas logs are designed to achieve a clean, smokeless flame.
What is the difference between vent free and direct vent fireplaces?
Direct vent gas inserts use a high temperature glass panel to separate the burning area of the gas insert from the inside of your home. So, your vented gas insert will take air in from the outside and then exhaust all the gases to the outside. This contrasts with a vent-free gas insert, which vents into the home.
Do ventless gas fireplaces smell?
Ventless logs do in fact produce an unmistakable odor, some more so than others depending on the quality of the brand. There is no way of preventing this, it is simply the nature of burning gas in your home without exhausting the fumes up a chimney.
Which is better direct vent or ventless fireplaces?
If you're looking for a fireplace that won't have any interaction with the air inside your home, then a Direct Vent fireplace is the best choice for you. Direct Vent fireplaces are an excellent way to create a warm and inviting focal point without affecting your indoor air quality.
Which is warmer vented or ventless fireplace?
Ventless fireplaces produce more heat than vented fireplaces, but vented fireplaces look better. The different strengths of the two types of units will appeal to different people.
How can you tell the difference between vented and unvented gas logs?
0:054:14Gas Logs: Vented or Vent-Free? How To Tell The Difference, and Decide ...YouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnd you'll see them pretty much anywhere and everywhere you go the easiest way to tell theMoreAnd you'll see them pretty much anywhere and everywhere you go the easiest way to tell the difference between a vintage set and a vent free set is the placement of the flames on the logs.
Should a gas fireplace have a vent?
Do Gas Fireplaces Need Venting? 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 does a vent free fireplace work?
Vent-Free Fireplaces that run on propane can get their energy from pipe links to a propane tank. Gel fuel is a primary energy source uses in specific vent-free fireplaces. You may purchase gel fuel cartons to insert within the Vent-Free Fireplace rather than attaching to a natural or propane pipe. It is a less expensive energy alternative but does not create quite so much warmer than other fuel sources.
What type of energy is used in vent free fireplaces?
A vent-free fireplace uses natural gas, propane, or gel energy and consumes it with indoor air. Nat gas and propane seem to be the most widely employ energy sources in Vent-Free Fireplaces.
Why does a ventless fireplace turn off?
Specific versions even contain a carbon monoxide analyzer and o2 detectors to track the room’s indoor environmental quality. Because the ventless fireplace lacks an oxygen flow that exhausts to the outside like a vent fireplace, it draws air from the interior to consume. The o2 indicator will immediately turn off the fireplace if the system recognizes that the O2 concentration in the room has dropped to an alarming degree. If the CO monitor detects too much carbon monoxide in the area, the very same applies.
What is a B vent?
Natural Ventilation fireplaces (B-Vent) burn oxygen inside the house and expel the fumes outside the residency.
Is ventless fireplace more authentic?
Venting fireplace sets are generally more authentic , appearing than vent-free fireplace sets. So if you have a primary interest in appearance, the venting insertion is the way to go. If you choose comfort over appearances, though, the ventless model is the way to go.
Does a ventless fireplace heat up the attic?
No energy dissipates up to the attic or vent because the air vapors discharges into the apartment with a valve-free installation. As an outcome, the vent-free fireplace is particularly effective at totally and swiftly warming the space. In contrast, a straightforward installation will slowly and gradually warm your room.
Is ventless gas bad for you?
In addition, the vent-free fireplace produces and emits a tiny quantity of nitrous dioxide and carbon monoxide and it can be fatal in high amounts.
What is a ventless gas fireplace?
Also known as unvented or vent-free fireplaces, a ventless gas fireplace operates with natural gas or liquid propane (LP) that flows into a gas burner mounted in the fireplace. When ignited, the flames run through gaps in artificial ceramic fiber logs, giving the illusion of a real wood-burning fireplace.
How many vents are there in a gas fireplace?
In a traditional vented gas fireplace, there are two vents that run to the outside of the home. One is a fresh-air intake that provides combustion air help the gas burn more efficiently. The other vent safely removes any exhaust gases created by burning the natural gas or LP to the outdoors.
How much does a ventless fireplace cost?
By contrast, a ventless fireplace costs between $1,000 and $5,000. Article Sources.
What is the difference between a gas fireplace and a direct vent fireplace?
Direct-vent gas fireplaces require two vents in the back: one that expels gases and another that draws in fresh air from the outside. (Some direct-vent fireplaces are vented with a single two-chamber vent pipe).
How much does it cost to install a ventless fireplace?
By contrast, a ventless fireplace costs between $1,000 and $5,000.
What are the problems with venting a fireplace?
Venting a fireplace is especially complicated in retrofit installations, where it can be problematic to find a route for the chimney flue. Another issue with fireplaces concerns the energy loss. Wood-burning fireplaces are inherently inefficient, since a good deal of the home's heat inevitably escapes up the flue rather than radiating into interior spaces. Vented gas fireplaces are somewhat better at retaining heat, but modern homes are now being built so airtight that even a vented gas fireplace may create negative air pressure that hinders good exhaust. Air flowing out a chimney vent flue can even prevent combustion gases from other appliances from exhausting properly.
Why are ventless fireplaces so popular?
Even though few homes today rely on fireplaces as their primary heating source, many homeowners still enjoy the ambiance of a warm fireplace. Ventless gas fireplaces, in particular, are popular because they're clean and easy to use.
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.
What is vent free fireplace insert?
Vent free gas fireplace inserts are usually less realistic looking than a direct vent gas insert. If you are mainly looking for an aesthetic, you should go with the direct vent gas insert. However, if you prefer warmth over aesthetics, go with the vent free option.
How much does a vent free gas fireplace insert cost?
Vent free gas inserts, on the other hand, will cost between $1,000 and $5,000.
Why is a direct vent fireplace insert realistic?
When it comes to a direct vented gas fireplace insert, it produces a realistic flame because the temperature is controlled. This results in a flame that most closely resembles a wood burning fire. If realism and aesthetics are important to you, direct vent will always beat vent free.
What is the difference between direct vent and vent free fireplace inserts?
For vent-free gas inserts to reduce the risk of emissions being transmitted into the home, the burn temperature of the fire needs to be higher . So, this higher temperature produces a less realistic, sometimes blue flame. When it comes to a direct vented gas fireplace insert, it produces a realistic flame because the temperature is controlled. This results in a flame that most closely resembles a wood burning fire. If realism and aesthetics are important to you, direct vent will always beat vent free.
What is direct vent gas insert?
Direct vent gas inserts use outside air for combustion. This results in no cold air coming in the house from windows, doorways, or other leaks to feed the fire like a natural wood fire does. As a result, this allows the room air to not lose heat and then warm up faster.
What is a breakaway fireplace?
If you live on Cape Cod, Breakaway is your go-to source for heating solutions. We carry and install both types of gas fireplace inserts, which can be the perfect hearth product to complement your home. If you’re struggling with choosing between direct vent vs. vent free gas inserts, our experienced staff is prepared to help you select the right model and arrange your gas insert installation. And, if you are interested in learning more about our other heating products, such as decorative gas stoves, gas fireplaces, gas logs, fire pits, or generators, Breakaway can help you with these as well.
Can ventless fireplace inserts be installed in a bathroom?
In Massachusetts, ventless gas fireplace inserts cannot be installed in a bedroom or bathroom. They also cannot be the primary source of heat in the room they are installed in. So, you must have a conventional heating source in that room already, such as gas, electric, or oil heating.
How to choose ventless gas fireplace?
While choosing a ventless gas fireplace, check out which ones have the maximum to all key features. Then figure out which specifications match your needs. Then go for that option. Don’t push yourself merely for an expensive one. As well, don’t stop yourself from increasing your budget a little more for a good product.
How much gas does a ventless fireplace use?
As a ventless gas fireplace can utilize up to 99.9% of fuel and more, the output is always satisfactory. So you have to compute the BTU per hour and the measurement of the area of coverage. A spacious area like more than 1000 sq. ft. Pleasant Hearth vent free stove, Duluth Forge Remote Control Ventless Fireplace Insert, and options with similar BTUs will work the best. And if you are looking for an option for minimal space, which is less than 1000 sq. ft. or smaller, you can choose options like Regal Flame Fargo Ventless Wall Mounted Fireplace .
What is a zero clearance fireplace insert?
This vent less Procom zero clearance heating fireplace insert helps to create a warm environment into your living room, den, or kitchen. This insert, with the help of it’s beautiful look and comfortable features, will keep you relaxed and cozy in this winter.
What is a Duluth Forge ventless insert?
This Duluth Forge ventless insert is an extensively efficient option for keeping a spacious area warm evenly. On this fireplace insert, you will get all the latest compatible features for a swift ventless mechanism. Additionally, necessary safety modes are pre-installed on this unit.
What is a Duluth Forge fireplace?
The Duluth Forge Ventfree Linear Wall Gas Fireplace includes amazing profile design. As a sleek but powerful fireplace, it helps you to reach your desired room temperature and keeps you cozy.
What is Regal Flame Fargo?
Regal Flame Fargo Ventless Wall Mounted Fireplace is a contemporary unique recessed fireplace with its unique components. It can easily be your leisure buddy as it’s features will charm you away!
What to consider before buying a gas fireplace?
Budget is one of the most essential things to consider before buying anything. There are a lot of fireplaces available at the market with different prices. You need to pick your one after getting sure that you can afford it. With an addition to that, many features are available on expensive ventless gas fireplaces. Sometimes you might have to make a trade off with the features, so you need to make up your mind for this. Price of a good modern ventless gas fireplace may start at 220 USD and can extend at around 1300 USD.
How much efficiency does a ventless fireplace have?
Since vent-free fireplaces don’t release any air outdoors, they have an incredibly high efficiency rate of 99 percent. For some homeowners, the benefits outweigh the risks.
What is an ODS gas fireplace?
Most, if not all, vent-free gas fireplaces come with additional safety features, such as oxygen detector sensors (ODS). This sensor measures the oxygen levels in the room and immediately shuts off the fireplace if the oxygen levels drop too low.
Do gas fireplaces have a chimney?
When you think of a traditional fireplace, you typically imagine a smoking chimney, which acts as an outlet for the smoke. Although gas fireplaces are fueled by either natural gas or propane, and therefore do not produce the thick, foggy smoke of burning real wood, they do generate harmful fumes. In a vented gas fireplace, two vents run up through the chimney — one to bring in fresh outdoor air and the other one to exhaust the fumes. Fireplaces using two vent liners are often referred to as “direct vent.”