Choosing a Ventless Gas Fireplace
If you don’t have a fireplace already in your home, you make think you can’t install one without a hefty price tag. A ventless gas fireplace can make having a fireplace a reality without too much of an expense. The fireplace simulates wood burning. Although the flame does not exactly replicate that of a wood burning fire, it can still bring the homey feel only a fire can provide.
This type of fireplace does not require a chimney, flue, or external venting ducts. Ventless gas fireplaces use either natural gas or propane as fuel. So the only necessary component is a line to deliver either the propane or natural gas to the fireplace. Even if you are limited on space a corner ventless gas fireplace can be installed. This makes for a very effective use of space, and you can still reap the benefits of a fireplace.
The fireplace needs more than just the propane or natural gas to create a flame; the air from the room is also used as fuel. Because it uses the air from the room, the size of the room is important. If you install a ventless gas log fireplace in a room that is too small for the fireplace, the flame will not last.
There are some health concerns related to ventless fireplaces. Some states don’t even allow you to install a ventless gas fireplace insert. The health concerns are related to the by-products created when burning gas in your home. These bi-products include carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, and sulfur dioxide.
Another bi-product of a ventless gas fireplace is water vapor. This is much less of a concern than the other bi-products, but it could cause structural damage, or wallpaper to peel.
If you do decide to get a ventless fireplace despite the concerns aforementioned, be sure to size it properly, and follow all other manufacturer’s recommendations. Most manufacturers recommend running ventless gas fireplace inserts for only four to seven hours maximum. Taking these precautions will ensure that your safety is not compromised. Ventless gas fireplace logs have what is called on Oxygen Depletion Sensor, which will turn of the gas before carbon monoxide reaches are dangerous level. However, it would also be wise to install a carbon monoxide detector near the fireplace. You may not be able to determine the presence of carbon monoxide since it is odorless and colorless, but the detector will be able to.
If you have a room in your home that is a little colder than the others, you may want to consider installing a ventless fireplace as an additional source of heat. Also, because a ventless fireplace does not require electricity to run, it can be used for heat in an emergency situation.
Whether you choose to install a ventless gas fireplace for looks alone, or to use it for additional heat, it can be a valuable asset to your home.