Considering the Ventless Gas Fireplace

Fireplaces are very popular right now. Home improvement is another hot topic. If you are considering adding a fireplace to your home or replacing an old fireplace, you may be considering a ventless gas fireplace. Gas burns more cleanly than wood or coal. Gas burns with a real flame unlike electric fireplaces. If you have no chimney or if you want to use your fireplace for heat and don't want to lose heat through a chimney, you may want to think about a ventless gas fireplace.

Things to Think About

If adding a fireplace means constructing or repairing a chimney, a ventless gas fireplace may seem like an easy fix. However, a gas fireplace is a real fireplace. You have to consider the whole picture. Even though you don't need a chimney with a ventless gas fireplace, you do need a safe line from your propane or natural gas source. Connecting to an existing line may be a do it yourself project, though just barely. If a line needs to be installed, you should get an expert to do it.

Although the ventless gas fireplace doesn't require a flue to draw the fire, it still needs a source of air to fuel it. If you are looking for a secondary heat source, you may be tempted to place a large fireplace in a small room. This won't work and could be dangerous. The fireplace needs sufficient air and so do the people in the room.

Oxygen is consumed by the fire and is replaced with carbon monoxide. This isn't a problem in a well ventilated area, of course. There is no question that a ventless gas fireplace would be an asset to an outdoor deck or an airy beach house. Because of the concerns for sufficient air circulation, a ventless gas fireplace should not be used as the primary heat source. Some areas have building codes that may prohibit or limit the use of a ventless gas fireplace, so check on that before committing to one.

When gas is burned, moisture remains and is released into the air. Another problem that occurs when there is insufficient circulation is the build up of moisture which can cause mold or mildew. This can damage furniture and fabric and cause problems with anyone who has allergies. Again, this will not be a problem if a room is properly aired.

On the plus side, if a ventless gas fireplace is right for you, there are many styles to choose from, they are easy to find and the necessary information is readily available. The ventless gas fireplace may not be for everyone, but it may be perfect for you.

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