Ventless gas fireplaces are great for home that are small and do not have the room for regular fireplaces. Just like with anything else that you have to purchase there are pros and cons that come with it. They are inexpensive and easy to use but there are also some pitfalls to having them installed in your home. Knowing about these will help you to make the right decision for you and your family.
Pros. Unvented models are less expensive to purchase and install than vented fireplaces, and they’re sometimes the only option if you want to add a fireplace to an existing two-story home. Because heat is not leaving the house through a chimney or duct, ventless fireplaces also make very effective heaters.
The vent-free gas fireplace lives up to its name: it does not need any type of chimney or hole in the exterior of the home through which to vent the fireplace. The burning by-products are vented back into the room, which is also where the air to fuel the fire is drawn from. This makes a vent-free fireplace installation easy to achieve in most homes, including smaller ones, because installing the fireplace doesn’t require any extra building, digging or renovations to the exterior of the home.
Cons. Ventless fireplaces have stirred up some controversy, because of the fear they’ll release harmful combustion by-products into the home if they aren’t installed and maintained correctly. Since there is no vent, they can release trace amounts of carbon monoxide, other chemicals, and water vapor into your living area. Manufacturers recommend keeping a window partially open when this kind of gas fireplace is in use or even installing separate ductwork.
Combined with the condensation and moisture problems in the home, the smells of gasoline and soot are also redirected straight into the home, creating an uncomfortable situation for some homeowners. Those with sensitive respiratory senses or with problems such as asthma may suffer discomfort or difficulty breathing with repeated use of a vent-free fireplace. Many manufacturers recommend ensuring proper air circulation when using the vent-free system, but opening a window or having ducts installed take away from the advantages of heating efficiency and ease of installation, respectively.
Cost. Smaller, basic models are available for less than $300, while custom ventless fireplaces tend to be in the range of $2,500-$3,000.
Conclusion: It is important to know both the pros and cons when it comes purchasing a ventless fireplace for your home. Take the time to learn more about them and some of the safety precautions that need to be taken before you have one installed. You do not want to create any dangerous situations for you or your family.