Ventless gas fireplaces are popular because they’re clean and easy to use.
However, reviews are mixed about their safety.
A patchwork of regulations across the United States controls the legality of ventless fireplaces.
The Spruce / Ana Cadena
Roughly a third of states allow these units with no restrictions.
California and Massachusetts have banned all ventless fireplaces indoors.
In the remaining states, regulations vary based on the city’s population, altitude, and surrounding geography.
Ventless fireplaces, however, are engineered to minimize exhaust fumes.
Various styles can suit your room, including see-through or two-sided models.
They operate with natural gas or liquid propane.
Some even use alcohol gel cartridges, similar to Sterno cans.
Size
Each space has a maximum heat allowance based on its size.
The heat output can vary from 20,000 to 40,000 British thermal units (BTUs).
Then multiply by 20.
For example, if a room is 1,400 cubic feet, it should not radiate more than 28,000 BTUs.
When buying ventless gas log sets, it lists requirements for the firebox space and gives specifications.
Many come equipped with automatic ignition, eliminating the need for a constantly standing pilot light.
Some also have backup battery mode in case of a power outage.
In many cases, you’re free to control the size of the flame and reduce gas usage.
Types of Ventless Gas Fireplaces
Built-in
Built-ins are custom-fitted for the space you have.
A majority are pre-fabricated, and they come in many sizes by fireplace manufacturers.
This jot down is best for newly built homes, full-home renovations, or room redesigns.
They come in one or two-sided (or see-though) versions.
The two-side punch in is placed in a dividing wall between two rooms.
Ventless Gas Fireplace Insert
Aventless gas fireplace insertis an enclosed box that fits inside of your fireplace.
It helps trap heat and contains the flame.
Outdoor
Outdoor ventless gas fireplaces need to withstand the elements and are designed to be weatherproof.
By contrast, a ventless fireplace costs between $1,000 and $5,000.
Both require a natural gas or propane connection, so there is no cost difference in terms of plumbing.
No plumbing is required, as these units use alcohol-based gel fuel canisters that burn for about three hours.
However, you would also need to factor in additional labor costs to hook them up.
It might be your best option but explore the rest too.
Vented vs. Ventless
In a traditional vented gas fireplace, two vents run outside.
One is a fresh-air intake that provides combustion air to help the gas burn more efficiently.
The other vent safely removes any natural gas or propane exhaust gases to the outdoors.
Ventless fireplaces do not have two outdoor vents.
Air flowing out of a chimney vent flue can even prevent combustion gases from other appliances from exhausting properly.
A ventless gas fireplace looks quite similar to a vented fireplace on the surface.
The ambiance, crackling sounds, and smell of a real-wood burning fire is a unique experience.
Electric Fireplaces
Anelectric fireplace is an electric heaterthat mimics a traditional wood or gas-burning fireplace.
There are no flames, no gas lines, only an electric plug.
Electric fireplaces can be placed on a wall or inside conventional fireplaces no longer used to make fires.
Most have LED screens or dimming lights to mimic a crackling fire.
An electric fireplace is the safest option for people who have breathing issues.
This fireplace is the most inexpensive of the alternatives.
Are Ventless Gas Fireplaces Your Best Option?
Ventless fireplaces are easier to install than vented wood orgas fireplacesand warm rooms nicely.
They do not emit as much exhaust as wood-burning fireplaces and might even be safer than vented gas fireplaces.
Need more help?
Talk to a fireplace expert.
Major home improvement stores also carry several lines of fireplaces of all types.
Also, note if you want the fireplace to be a heat source or for purely aesthetic reasons.
Bring the measurements for your wall space.
A professional can help you narrow down your choices.
The costs can mount quickly, especially if they need to break into the walls.
Also, ask if the fireplace and parts have a warranty.
Some fireplaces have a lifetime warranty on the firebox; others may only warranty the ceramic logs.
Buying Online
Buying online offers the most variety and the ability to compare prices.
Many web-only fireplace stores have experts on hand to answer any questions.
Check the return policy to avoid any hassles if the item arrives and is not exactly what you want.
Also, review delivery windows, delivery costs, and installation options.
If they don’t do the installation, they can likely point you toward a service partner who can.
Although you may find decent pricing on Amazon and Wayfair, there may be less assistance available.
Height clearances for each fireplace vary depending on manufacturer instructions.
In a gas ventless fireplace, oxygen is provided by the air in your home.
Avoid those odors by vacuuming debris and using an air purifier unit.
International Association of Certified Home Inspectors.
Inspecting Unvented Combustion Appliances.
International Association of Certified Home Inspectors.
Carbon Monoxide Poisoning: Unvented Gas Space Heating Appliances (AEN-204).
