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Gas fireplace inserts burn natural gas or propane instead of wood and are much more efficient than wood-burning fireplaces.
The Spruce
Ventless fireplace inserts are easier to install because venting is not required.
Consider usingcarbon monoxide sensorsin your home for additional safety.
The result is that the flames look more realistic and produce more heat.
PHOTO: Fireplace Direct
With its 26,000 BTU heat output, this fireplace insert can easily heat up to 1,300 square feet.
The small size also gives you much freedom in decorating since this is a zero-clearance model.
A piezo ignition creates a spark by striking a crystal and igniting the gas fuel.
PHOTO: Amazon
This is a ventless insert, so it doesn’t need a vent pipe.
you could always purchase an additional structuredfireplace screento prevent pets and children from getting too close to the flames.
We also like theDuluth Forge FDF300R Ventless Gas FireplaceInsert (our best ventless pick).
PHOTO: The Home Depot
Choose Between Ventless and Direct-Vent
Gas fireplace inserts are available in ventless and direct-vent configurations.
Vent-free insertsdon’t need to be vented because they burn hot enough to eliminate most harmful emissions.
Exhaust fumes are vented directly into your home, so look for an insert with a low-oxygen shutoff.
PHOTO: The Home Depot
Expert Tip
Achieving accurate firebox or fireplace measurements with a standard tape measure can be difficult.
For example, a 500-square-foot room would need a fireplace insert that can produce at least 10,000 BTUs.
Our best with blower pick, theAshley Hearth Products AGVF340N, has a heat output of 34,000 BTUs.
PHOTO: The Home Depot
