In recent years ventless gas fireplace have been the subject of much attention – from potential buyers as well as from fireplace professionals and experts. Most people first hear about the incredible efficiency attributed to these fireplaces, followed by the ease of installation and operation. A ventless or vent free gas fireplace, as it is often also called, does not require the most troublesome part of installing a fireplace: it does not need a chimney, a flue or a vent. Combined with the fact that technological breakthroughs in gas fireplace development have made it possible to create gas burners which produce a natural looking yellowish flame closely resembling a traditional wood fire without sacrificing the efficiency of gas burning, it is not surprising that by 2010, many new gas fireplaces purchased in North America have been ventless devices.
Which types of ventless gas fireplaces are available on the market? The product range includes heaters, stoves, vent free gas logs, fireplace inserts and full-blown fireplaces. Heaters and stoves usually are not counted as fireplaces, but should definitely be considered when deciding what kind of heating device best fits the individual requirements. Both are typically used when generating heat is the main goal of installing a gas-fueled fire rather than visually enjoying the fire itself. Ventless gas logs are similar to their more well-known vented counterparts and are installed in much the same way, but without the requirement of external venting. A ventless gas fireplace insert is designed for use in an existing fireplace cavity, but is usually open to the front to ensure a continuous air supply. They sometimes include an additional blower to improve the distribution of heated air. Prefabricated, fully assembled ventless gas fireplaces are self-contained units which can be installed in any location in the house where a gas supply is available, as limitations from venting requirements do not exist. Like their vented counterparts, all ventless units come with several options for automating their operation, for example thermostats, on/off switches or remote controls.
The important advantages of ventless gas fireplaces naturally include the general advantages associated with all gas fireplaces: their independence from electric power, their convenience in use and cleaning and their environmental friendliness. Apart from these, ventless models have significant additional benefits to offer: first, due to their “ventlessness”, they are the least expensive gas fireplaces on the market regarding purchase and operating costs. Often, they can be as much as $1000 cheaper than corresponding vented fireplaces. Second, they can be installed into existing wood-burning fireplaces without the usual chimney modifications, saving additional installation costs. The fireplace damper is simply kept closed during operation. Second, the efficiency of vent free models is the highest among all gas fireplaces, often surpassing 99%. Third, they are installable in any location in the home, either using natural gas or bottled liquid propane depending on availability. The certifications achieved by all modern ventless gas fireplaces guarantee a low level of emission and an air quality which is sufficient for all requirements.
A final word needs to be said regarding the safety concerns often associated with a vent free gas fireplace. The lack of venting in principle increases the risk of oxygen depletion in a room where such a fireplace is burning. However, as their outstanding safety record during recent decades shows, the burners with oxygen depletion sensors (ODS) used in all ventless gas burners effectively addresses this concern by immediately shutting off the gas supply if the level of oxygen in the room drops below a set limit. Consequently, ventless gas fireplaces are currently allowed for installation in most locations in North America. Still, it is important to check local building codes and requirements before making a final purchase decision.
As the arguments listed above show, there are many facts that lead people to decide in favor of a ventless gas fireplace. Combined with the huge variety of available products, most prospective buyers are likely to find a model which will suit their individual requirements and tastes – be it a ventless gas fireplace insert or ventless gas logs.
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