One of the pros of a ventless gas fireplace is that they are fueled by gas. Gas is relatively inexpensive, especially when compared to the expense of purchasing firewood for a traditional fireplace. Cost of the unit itself is another benefit. You can find venless units for less than $400. Of course you can spend more than that if that is within your budget and you want a fancier model, or one with cabinetry or other features.

Another benefit is that ventless gas fireplaces are highly energy efficient. A ventless natural gas fireplace doesn’t have a chimney or venting. Other fireplaces lose a majority of their heat through this venting. A ventless option doesn’t have that problem. It is a much more efficient source of additional heat for a room.

Easy installation is positive feature of this type of fireplace. Installation is greatly simplified because there is no venting, or chimney. This also means you can install the fireplace wherever you want. It doesn’t have to be on an outer wall, it can be wherever you desire. There are even ventless gas fireplace inserts. A ventless gas fireplace insert can be placed in an existing fireplace if you decide you would like to update in that way. Installation of the insert can usually be done by you, the consumer, with no problem.

Ease of use is yet another benefit. Once your fireplace is installed it is simple to use. Most can be turned on with just the flip of a switch. Some models even have remotes you can use to turn your fireplace on and off.

There is no worry about sparks damaging carpet or other objects near your fireplace. There is also no soot or ash to worry about either. Not only does this eliminate concern of stained or damaging your property, but it also simplifies cleanup. Creosote buildup doesn’t happen in a fireplace of this design like it does in a traditional fireplace. There is very little maintenance or cleanup involved with this type of fireplace.

Either the American Gas Association or the Canadian Gas Association certifies ventless gas fireplace logs. They also come equipped with Oxygen Depletion Sensors. These sensors ensure your safety by tracing the level of oxygen in the room. If the level drops below a safe amount than the gas supply is cut off.

One of the few reasons you may not choose a ventless gas fireplaces is if you don’t have an existing gas line in your home. In this case you likely would consider an option that uses a different type of fuel.

Before considering this option your home needs to have only one qualification, and that is a gas line in your home. This type of fireplace requires gas and the air from the room to fuel the flame. The only other limiting factor is where you live. There are some states that don’t allow vent free natural gas fireplaces to be used or installed. Assuming neither of these restrictions apply to you, this type of fireplace could suit your fireplace needs.

One of the most appealing aspects of a vent free gas fireplace is that it requires no chimney or other type of venting (just as the name suggests). This makes it a possibility for home that originally didn’t have a fireplace. This also increases affordability. Installation or building of a chimney or other venting can be a costly project.

The versatility of installation location is another pro for a lot of buyers. These fireplaces can be installed wherever you want in your home. Corner vent free gas fireplaces are a great space efficient option if you want a fireplace, but are a little short on space. You do want to make sure the fireplace you purchase is the appropriate size for the room you are going to install it. Because the fireplace uses the oxygen in the room as fuel, the room needs to be big enough to provide sufficient air for the unit to function properly.

Vent free gas fireplaces aren’t only for homeowners whose homes don’t have an existing fireplace. Vent free gas fireplace inserts are a great option if you already have a traditional fireplace but are looking for something more efficient. These inserts can be installed in an old fireplace.

One of the concerns you may have when purchasing vent free gas log fireplaces is safety. There are a few precautions you can take to optimize safety with your fireplace.

The fireplaces are equipped with oxygen depletion sensors that are designed to shut off the gas when the oxygen level in the room reaches dangerously low level. Although they have these sensors it is still wise to have carbon monoxide detectors in your home, and especially in the room the fireplace is installed.

Also, be sure the unit is properly installed in your home. If you feel you are not qualified to install the unit yourself, have a professional install it for you.

Be sure to also follow any manufacturers instructions. The manufacturer knows the maintenance the unit needs, and also are aware of potential problems that could arise from your fireplace. The manufacturer will also tell you what size of room the unit can safely be installed.

The way a vent free gas fireplace works it what gives the fireplace its marketable features. The fireplace is not like a traditional fireplace that has a chimney or other ducting for air flow. The fireplace uses gas as fuel and doesn’t create a “real” flame. In order to have this type of fireplace without venting, your home will need to have a gas line. The fireplace also uses some air from the room as fuel for the fire. Although it doesn’t produce an authentic flame, the reaction still produces substantial heat, enough to be an additional source of heat to a room. The way a vent free fireplace works allows you to turn the fire on with the flip of a switch or push of a button.

Vent free gas fireplaces aren’t without controversy. Some people feel they are not a safe option, and there are some states that have outlawed their use and installation. The reason their safety is questioned is the byproducts from the combustion. This includes carbon monoxide. Those who argue that a vent free gas option is safe insist that vent free fireplace logs combust all but a negligible amount of any dangerous byproducts, because of the high heat they produce.

Because vent free fireplaces work the way they do, they require less maintenance than standard fireplaces. One of the biggest relieve of maintenance comes because there is no chimney or ducting to maintain. You don’t have to worry about it becoming clogged, or having to clean it out at regular intervals. Cleaning of your unit will be minimal. You should make sure that your gas line is working properly. In addition, vent free gas fireplaces have Oxygen Depletion Sensors (ODS), which turn off the gas before any dangerous level of carbon monoxide is reached. You should check routinely to be sure the ODS in your fireplace is working properly.

If you already have a traditional fireplace you can still go vent free. A vent free fireplace insert can be installed in already existing masonry from a traditional fireplace.

Ventless fireplaces aren’t all fueled by gas, although that is the most common option. There are also fireplaces fueled with gel. Each gel can burns for about three hours. This type of fireplace is designed for looks and not heat output. If you are looking for a vent free option with the most heat output, this isn’t the type for you. Other fireplaces that don’t require venting are electric.

Propane is a reliable source of heat. If you experience a power outage, you can be assured that your fireplace will still work, and provide you with some heat. A propane fireplace heats very quickly. Another benefits of propane as a fuel is that it is cleaner burning that a wood burning fire. This can be especially important if you are trying to be more environmentally conscious.

So you are sold on propane, there are still a few types of propane fireplaces you may choose to install in your home. The type you choose depends on what already exists in your home and your other needs. If you have an existing wood burning fireplace, but you want to convert it to gas you have two options. You may choose to have a professional install a propane gas log to burning in the existing masonry, you or may choose a propane insert.

Propane fireplace inserts are designed to be place in your existing fireplace. The insert is a shell surrounding a firebox, which contains the propane log. Of course you will need to make sure the fireplace has a source of propane to function properly. Some models also require electricity, for convenience, only for the starter on the unit. These also have a manual option, so you won’t ever be stuck without a fire.

There is a way to have a propane gas fireplace without having a chimney, or even any ducting. A vent free propane fireplace doesn’t require venting. This means it can be installed anywhere in your home, as long as there is propane to fuel the unit. The vent free option will use air from the room and the propane to produce a flame. This is a very heat efficient option as there is no chimney to lose heat. When buying a fireplace like this, the mantel and cabinetry can be included in the purchase. You can find various styles to suit your taste.

Maybe you aren’t looking to install a fireplace inside your home. An outdoor propane fireplace can provide a lot of fun to a backyard or other outdoor area. It gives a warm place for people to congregate for socializing or relaxing. Many of these fireplaces are designed more like fire pits. This allows for more people to gather around the fire. It is usually the least expensive of the outdoor varieties. Consider how you will get the propane to the fire. You may have to pipe from a large propane tank a distance away from the unit, or some model have small propane tanks dedicated only to fuel the fireplace.

A portable outdoor fireplace is a great thing to have. Get the fire roaring and sit around the fire anywhere in the great outdoors you choose. These outdoor types are often referred to as fire pits. There are various shapes, like domes, cylinders, or cubes. They are often made of cast iron or sometimes copper. Many are on wheels for increased mobility. The type of fuel is usually wood for this kind of fireplace. You need to be cautious where you use this type of fireplace. Do not use to close to combustible materials.

One of the most common fuels a portable fireplace uses is gel. These gel cans generally burn for two to three hours. They do not emit a large amount of heat. The gel cans are usually sold separately. Fireplaces that use gels are generally smaller, and can be carried easily. Some are described as “table-top” fireplaces, indicating how small they really are. There are a number of trendy options available when it comes to a gel-fueled fireplace.

Another portable option is electric. A portable electric fireplace is generally designed for indoor use. Most include mantels and cabinetry, although there are stove models available. These look more like a conventional fireplace. In contrast to gel fuels, the electric models emit enough heat to warm a 400 square foot room. This option is not as easily transported as some of the other portable choices available. A portable indoor fireplace like this can be a stunning addition to a home. There are many different styles available. Whether you prefer the look of a stained or painted wood, or if you would rather have a stone fireplace, you can find the style right for you. These are great because unlike traditional fireplaces, they require no vented and there is very little maintenance.

You may also be interested in a portable fireplace heater. Most of these are designed to look like a wood stove. Those that are powered by electricity provide quick fan-forced heat. It works very much like a space-heater, but you get to enjoy the look of a fireplace. There are faux logs and an imitation flame that look pretty realistic. The glass window will remain cool even while the unit is in use. This means you don’t have to worry about any little ones or pets burning themselves.

They are great for patios, next to a pool, or anywhere you would like to use one in your yard. Most of these fireplaces don’t have the masonry a traditional fireplace has. This allows you to install it yourself. It is a much less costly option to use outdoor fireplace kits that to construct an outdoor masonry fireplace. In addition, many of these fireplaces are portable, so you can move them to wherever you would like to use them.

Outdoor fireplaces kits provide all the needed components to construct an outdoor fireplace. These prefab outdoor fireplace kits also come with instructions on how to properly install the unit. You may need only a few simple tools for proper assembly.

There are several different fuels used for these kits. Outdoor wood burning fireplace kits are reminiscent of sitting around a campfire. You can enjoy the heat and crackling of the fire just as you would if you were camping. Care needs to be taken where these kits are installed. Be aware of any flammable materials near the unit. These often have features that allow you to use the fireplace to grill.

There are also outdoor gas fireplace kits. These can usually be used with natural, or propane gas, whichever is more convenient for you. Some of them even allow for you to remove the gas conversion so you can have a wood burning option. Most of these are chiminea style fireplaces. This means that there is a duct, usually in the form of a tube that sticks up from the middle of the fireplace. These provide a place for the smoke to go, which makes it easier for you to enjoy the fire. They are often made of cast aluminum; this makes them more lightweight and easier to manage. They vary in color and style. The neck is often removable to allow for grilling over the flame.

You can also find outdoor stone fireplace kits. When constructed, these look more like the standard fireplace. They are much larger in size, and less portable, although it is still possible to more them. In addition to whatever colors the manufacturer offers, many of them allow for you to add on to the fireplace if you wish. This allows you to embellish the fireplace and have something truly unique.

All that’s left to do once your kit is installed is to invite over some company and use it!

Fireplace mantels benefit from adornment. You can use clocks, candles, mirrors, photographs, or other objects to decorate with. The only limitation is your imagination. The mantel décor you choose will depend on the decorating you have in the rest of the room. Just as any other decorating element in the room, you will want to make sure it is cohesive with the theme of the rest of the room.

If you are having trouble deciding what and how many objects you should use in your decorating you may want to use the three plus one trick. The rule suggests using three objects on one side of the fireplace. These objects should vary only a little in size. You can also use related objects, or objects that fit within a certain theme. The objects can be the same as well. For example, using three candles of similar size and color. Next, on the opposite side of the mantel place one single object. This item should be similar in size (at least visually) to all three items (combined) on the other side. The single item can have something in common with the trio of items, whether it is color or theme.

Another item you may want to use in your decorating it a mantel scarf. These cloths drape beautifully on the shelf above your fireplace, a resemble table runners. Most scarves provide a more formal look. The overhang of the scarf depends on which you buy. Some drape over 12 inches, while others simply cover the top of the shelf.

In order to keep your decorating in time with the seasons you can buy scarves for various holidays. There are festive Christmas scarves in red and green, or Halloween scarves that look like black spider webbing. These scarves are an easy way to quickly decorate your home for any holiday. Of course there are scarves that are made for everyday use as well. Many are made of lace or are hand crocheted. There are many styles of scarves available; you can even find some with lights!

A wood mantel can provide decoration in itself. The wood may have intricate carvings or detailing that add to the décor of the room. Customer fireplace mantels may have especially beautiful woodwork. You’ll want to take that carving into consideration while decorating. If the wood has elaborate scrollwork, more formal objects might be more appropriate. If the design has more clean lines, you may want to consider more contemporary décor.

You attention to detail while decorating your fireplace will pay off. If you spend the time you can have a stunning display that adds to the beauty of your home.

Originally, clocks for mantel were key-wound. This means they are entirely mechanical and have to be wound about once a week to continue functioning. They will last for decades as long as they are properly cared for. Some of the care includes oiling every few years, and cleaning of the movements at least every ten years. There are still key-wound options available.

In more recent years have come about quartz mantel clocks, or battery operated. They are generally less expensive and never require winding. They are also more accurate. They do not require maintenance except replacing the battery as necessary. The original movement may last years, but can also be replaced when necessary. These clocks are now more common than the key-wound clocks.

Seth Thomas is an American clockmaker that has been around for almost two hundred years. Their most famous clock is one that is in Grand Central Station in New York City, but they also design clocks for mantels. A Seth Thomas mantel clock is a reputable option. Many of the designs are wood, although there are glass and various metal designs as well. Most of their clocks manufactured now are quartz.

You may be interested in a Bulova mantel clock. Bulova is also well-known for their watches. They offer both chiming and non-chiming clocks. Although they carry some traditional designs, they also provide more contemporary options as well. Most of their clocks are quarts operated.

A Howard Miller mantel clock is another fine option. Howard Miller’s focus in the early years was on clocks for mantels and chiming wall clocks, so you can be sure you will get a quality product. Their clocks are known for their incomparable workmanship. They provide both chiming and non-chiming options. If you are looking for a key-wound clock, Howard Miller may be the right place to look. They have a wide variety of key-wound clocks, in addition to some quartz clocks. Most designs are crafted from wood, but there are a few metal options as well. Their selection is broad to suit many different tastes.

You may be interested in purchasing an antique mantel clock. There are some stunning antique mantel clocks out there. You can spend thousands of dollars on these treasured timepieces, some of which are over a hundred years old. Be sure if you purchase antique that you are getting an authentic piece.

Whether you choose a more contemporary style, with the quartz convenience, or opt for a more traditional ornate, key-wound timepiece, a clock a-top your mantel is sure to look stunning and add to the beauty of your fireplace.

Firstly a fireplace tool set provides functionality for those fireplaces who have a wood burning fireplace of any kind. This type of fire requires maintenance to continue burning, and also requires tools for proper cleanup. A fireplace set includes the tools necessary for this. Most sets consist of three pieces, although there are some with four. You will want to make sure the tools are good quality and will stand up well to use. You may also want to consider the comfort of the handle for gripping.

The first tool is a stoker, or poker. This tool allows for manipulation of the burning fuel without burning yourself. Sometimes the fire needs to be arranged to allow for better airflow, or for other reasons, and this too allows you to do so.

Another fireplace set tool is tongs. These tongs allow you to grasp and move bigger pieces, like a burning log. This task could be difficult to achieve with the poker alone.

The last two tools work together. There is the brush, which essentially serves as a miniature broom for the soot and ash that accumulates after the fire dies. The shovel is its companion. In additional to serving as a dustpan it can be used alone to scoop up leftover debris after the fire.

While fireplace tool sets are essential for wood-burning fireplace owners, they can also be purchased by any fireplace owner to add a finishing touch to your fireplace. There are many styles available to suit many different tastes. If you are purchasing the tool set for looks alone, you don’t have to worry as much about the quality. The tools won’t have to stand up to use, they just have to stand as a decorative element.

If you are interested in a black fireplace tool set, it will likely be constructed in wrought iron. Iron is the most common material that fireplace tools are constructed from. These can look very traditional, but there are also some more intricate designs constructed of iron.

Brass is another popular option among fireplace tool sets. Brass provides a more formal look. You can find sets that are made from a combination of materials as well. A wrought iron tool with a brass handle is one example.

One of the options available are mini fireplace tool sets. These generally stand around 20 inches high, while standard sets stand at about 30 inches in height. Although they are smaller, their price is comparable to that of standard sets.

A tool set for your fireplace can provide functionality, beauty, or both. There are many options available to satisfy your fireplace tool needs.

The fireplace mantel shelf is the flat, top portion of the fireplace. It is often constructed of the same material the surround is made of. Fireplace mantel shelves can be made of different materials.

A fireplace mantel can be constructed from various mediums. The most common thing used to construct a mantel is wood. This is likely because wood ranges from cheap to expensive, it is easy to carve, they are several types, and it is fairly lightweight. Some of the woods commonly use in mantel construction are maple, oak, pine, cherry and poplar. Wood provides great versatility because it can be painted, or stained.

Another material is stone. Marble provides a very elegant and classy look. It is more difficult to work with and you will likely need the assistance of a professional if you decide on this type of fireplace. Stone fireplace mantels may also look like river rocks, or slate. This provides a more rustic look, and is a great option for a cozy home or cabin.

Fireplace mantel designs vary greatly no matter what material you use to construct them. There are traditional designs and those that are more contemporary. Many of these designs have ornate carvings and detail work. The design you choose depends on the style of the room you put it. If you are starting from scratch you may use the mantel as inspiration for how you will decorate the rest of the room, or your entire home.

You still have more decided to do after you determine what material you want to use for your mantel. You have the option of purchasing a mantel that is already assembled and ready to be installed. One of the advantages of this is that you get to see the finished product before you purchase. You are able to know exactly what it will look like in your home.

Another option is to construct the mantel yourself. If you like home-improvement project you may like to do it that way. Just be sure you are familiar enough with the material you have chosen to work with. If constructing the mantle yourself seems to daunting of a task, there are kits you can purchase that just require assembly. These kits can save you money because you aren’t paying for the labor.

You may also decide to hire someone to build or install the mantel. One of the advantages of this is that you can see the construction every step of the way. It is easier to make alterations from what you have decided originally.

One thing is sure, fireplace mantels, add to the beauty of a home. They are a worthwhile investment and your mantel will be something you can enjoy for years to come.