In this article, we will discuss if a vented or ventless gas fireplace is better. Are you considering purchasing a gas fireplace in your home and are wondering if you should choose a vented or a ventless one? Both of them have their pros and cons. To help you get started, we have discussed the difference between the vented and ventless gas fireplaces below.
Which is better vented or ventless gas fireplace? The better type of gas fireplace is the one that your home requires. On the other hand, a lot of people choose vented gas fireplaces because they are more advantageous when it comes to functionality and safety. Before choosing, you need to check with your local laws because some areas do not allow the use of ventless fireplaces.
What is a vented gas fireplace and what are its pros and cons? Are ventless gas fireplaces safe? What is a ventless gas fireplace and what are its pros and cons? How long can you run a ventless gas fireplace? These are some of the questions that we will discuss. Find out more about the topic by reading the rest of the article below.
What is a Vented Gas Fireplace?
A vented gas fireplace is a type of fireplace that can be fueled with the use of propane or natural gas. It features two vents that run on the exterior of the house which is the intake and exhaust vents. The intake vent work by drawing in fresh air to the fireplace and the exhaust vent work by removing fumes from the fireplace.
The cost of installing vented gas fireplaces will have to depend on a few factors like the quality of the fireplace and if remodeling needs to be done. Take note that some areas require a certified gas contractor or a licensed plumber for the gas line installation. Hence, installing a vented gas fireplace is not considered a DIY project.
What are the Advantages of a Vented Gas Fireplace?
By choosing a vented gas fireplace, you do not have to worry about carbon monoxide poisoning. Carbon monoxide poisoning is a rare occurrence, but it still happens and some have fall victim to this. This can happen because gas from the fireplace can escape through the roof and into your home. Moreover, there are a few restrictions when it comes to burning vented gas fireplaces.
What are the Disadvantages of a Vented Gas Fireplace?
Vents can be expensive depending on what your gas fireplace requires. Aside from that, you also need to pay for its care and maintenance. The heat can still escape from the chimney so vented gas fireplaces are not that energy-efficient. When it comes to comparing a ventless and vented gas fireplace when it comes to gas usage, the vented ones need to use for gas to produce the same amount of heat.
What is a Ventless Gas Fireplace?
A ventless gas fireplace is a type of fireplace that features a regulator. This regular creates a mixture of gas and air to cleanly and efficiently burn gas. As a result, it lessens the fumes as compared to a traditional gas fireplace. Take note that there are regulations that require you to test your ventless gas fireplace to make sure that it functions safely. Ventless fireplaces cost about a thousand to five thousand dollars or more depending on the type that you choose and the installation.
What are the Advantages of a Ventless Gas Fireplace?
One of the advantages of a ventless gas fireplace is that it does not need to have the combination of chimney and flue combination. This saves money as compared to a vented gas fireplace. Moreover, this makes it easier to place a ventless gas fireplace in a lot of areas in your home. You can also save money on heating because it is energy-efficient. You can also read this article that discusses if gas fireplaces are worth the money. We have shared helpful information that you can refer to.
What are the Disadvantages of a Ventless Gas Fireplace?
The disadvantage of a ventless gas fireplace is that it does not have any fire and only heat. Many refer to it as an imitation fireplace. Moreover, some states do not allow the use of the ventless gas fireplace. Installing one in an area where it is not allowed can lead you to pay fines. Hence, it is very important that you check your location if a ventless gas fireplace is allowed or not. You can also check out this article that discusses if LED fireplaces give off heat. We have shared an in-depth discussion about the topic.
What are the Differences between Vented and Ventless Gas Fireplaces?
The difference between vented and ventless gas fireplaces is in how they function. Vented gas fireplaces function with the use of ductwork so that they can efficiently expel dangerous fumes outside. On the other hand, ventless gas fireplaces function by burning gas in a way that does not create a lot of fumes. By doing this, a vent is not required. Let us learn more about the differences between a vented and ventless gas fireplace below.
How They Function
When it comes to function, vented gas fireplaces should be vented outside of the house so a chimney or a pipe is required. On the other hand, ventless gas fireplaces do not need venting because it burns cleaner. You can also check out this article that discusses if you can have 2 fireplaces on one chimney. We have shared an in-depth discussion about the topic.
How They Look
The flame produced by vented gas fireplaces looks the same as that of a wood-burning stove. However, ventless gas fireplaces have a blue-looking flame which is the same as that of the flame in a gas range.
Vented Gas Fireplaces and Safety Installed with a high-temperature gas panel, the vented fireplace draws the air from the outside to fuel the fire inside. A vented gas fireplace will not alter the air condition inside. Moreover, valves installed in the vented fireplaces regulate the gas flow to the furnace. Another safety feature is the gas immediately turning off as soon as the pilot light is also turned off.
✅ Video – Vented or Ventless Gas Fireplace (Which One is Better?)
Embers Fireplaces & Outdoor Living shared the video below on YouTube. It discusses if vented or ventless gas fireplaces are better. In the video, the pros and cons of each type of gas fireplace are discussed. Watch the video below for more information.
Is it Safe to Use a Ventless Gas Fireplace?
Ventless gas fireplaces are safe to use because they undergo various tests to make sure that they pass the safety and health standards. However, they are considered to be less safe as compared to the vented ones. Take note that ventless gas fireplaces can release small amounts of carbon monoxide which can be a safety and health risk for consumers. The good thing is that a lot of ventless gas fireplace features carbon monoxide and oxygen sensors to detect the fumes that are emitted by the fireplace. On the other hand, there are still some states that ban the use of ventless gas fireplaces due to health and safety reasons.
How Long Can You Run a Ventless Gas Fireplace?
When it comes to running a ventless gas fireplace, it is recommended that you run them for about three hours and then turn them off. On the other hand, some recommend running it for only about two hours. You should ask your manufacturer regarding the running time of the ventless gas fireplace that you purchase. You can also check out this article that discusses if LED electric fireplaces are any good. We have shared an in-depth discussion about the topic.
Is Gas Log Fireplaces Safe to Use?
With proper care and maintenance, gas log fireplaces are safe to use. Make sure that you have a professional inspect and clean the chimney before you light up the logs. While fireplaces do not increase the level of carbon monoxide inside your home, it is recommended that you install detectors especially if you have a gas appliance.
Is Gas Log Vented?
A gas log can either be vented or ventless. Vented gas logs need a wood-burning fireplace. On the other hand, ventless gas logs can be installed in both wood-burning fireplaces and ventless fireplaces. Take note that ventless gas logs can be able to produce more heat than the vented ones. We have also shared this article titled, does a wood-burning fireplace need a chimney liner? You can check out the article for more tips and information.
Do Ventless Gas Fireplaces Emit Bad Smell?
Ventless gas fireplaces can emit a bad smell because it does not have a vent. It can create a chemical smell that can be annoying and uncomfortable. If you have a sensitive smell, then this could be an issue for you. Hence, if you do not want to deal with this issue, you should install a vented gas fireplace for your home. You can also check out this article that discusses if an electric fireplace needs a vent. We have shared an in-depth discussion about the topic.
Conclusion
You have reached the end of this article that discusses if a vented or ventless gas fireplace is better. We have found out that the one that you choose will have to depend on your preferences, budget, and what is best for your home. Moreover, we have shared the differences as well as the advantages and disadvantages of both vented and ventless gas fireplaces. Thank you for reading!