When winter arrives, everyone loves huddling around the fireplace to enjoy the cozy ambiance. While fireplaces are not the primary heating source in many homes, people still enjoy the aesthetics and warm vibes that it brings. A ventless gas fireplace has been gaining popularity as it is clean and easy to use. However, there are a few speculations regarding their safety. Keep reading this blog to know all about ventless gas fireplaces and if they’re any good.
What is Ventless Gas Fireplace?
Also known as unvented or vent-free fireplaces, ventless fireplaces are designed to produce fewer fumes and burn gas more efficiently than their vented alternative. It operates with natural gas or liquid propane. The LP or natural gas flows into a gas burner mounted in the fireplace. Moreover, the flames run through the spaces in artificial ceramic fiber logs and give the impression of a real wood-burning fireplace.
Things to Consider Before Buying Ventless Fireplace
Before you get a ventless gas fireplace, here are some factors to keep in mind:
- Space: You can place them in both small and large rooms. Plus, they can accommodate outdoor spaces too. Moreover, you can get many styles, even custom-made fireplaces, to fit in the area.
- Material: Lined with fireproof materials like cast iron or stainless steel, the unvented fireplace does not have any doors to close the unit. Mostly, artificial ceramic fiber logs are used for a real wood-burning fireplace illusion.
- Size: Generally, the size ranges from 12 inches to 42 inches. But you can also find as long as 72 inches, depending on the space. In addition, check the requirement for the heat output for a room and get suitable ventless log sets.
- Safety Features: They usually come with an oxygen detector system, which turns off if the oxygen levels in the room are lower than a certain level. Furthermore, some ventless gas fireplaces have carbon monoxide detectors. It automatically shuts off the fireplace when high levels are detected.
- Special Features: You can use a switch, button, or remote control to ignite the ventless gas fireplace. Additionally, many vent-free fireplaces have automatic ignition. Some even come with a backup battery mode, given that a power outage might occur. Many ventless fireplaces allow you to control the flame’s size, reducing gas usage.
Pros & Cons of a Ventless Gas Fireplace
To help you know more about the ventless gas fireplace, we will discuss some pros and cons.
First, let us go over the benefits:
- Affordable than a vented fireplace
- Doesn’t produce soot or ash
- Can be inserted into any room
- Provides the same ambiance as a vented fireplace
- Energy-efficient
Now, here are some disadvantages of a vent-free fireplace:
- Emits a small amount of fumes in the house
- Not permitted in some areas
- Might make your home humid or muggy due to has combustion
What Should I Do?
A ventless gas fireplace can be safe to use if used correctly and by sticking to the manufacturer’s instructions. This is why getting professional advice might go a long way. Don’t forget to get your chimney regularly inspected, even if you use a ventless gas fireplace. Our Brusher’s Chimney experts are eager to help. Dial (346) 803-2981 to contact us now.