5 Things You Need To Know Before Buying a Direct Vent Fireplace

With many gas fireplaces on the market, you might ask yourself, what type of fireplace is right for you? While we have already written an in-depth guide to understanding gas fireplaces article will explore five things you need to know before purchasing a direct vent gas fireplace.

direct vent flue collars on an insert

How is a direct vent fireplace different from the rest?

A direct vent fireplace is best described as a vented gas fireplace with a sealed glass firebox. Because of its venting and setup, it is super efficient for heating. Coaxial pipes draw air from the outdoors for combustion instead of sucking air and heat out of the room you're sitting in.

coaxial venting diagram

Direct vent fireplaces are a great option for people needing a venting system outside the typical vertical chimney. As with direct vent gas stoves, venting can be vertical, horizontal, or combined.

As of 2015, all manufacturers are required to put a barrier screen on all direct vent fireplaces to shield the viewer from the glass. This safety measure helps prevent unnecessary burns for children, pets, and the occasional clumsy guest. However, you can remove the barrier if you're feeling risky.

Is it expensive?

A direct vent fireplace can be less expensive than a B-vent fireplace. Coaxial pipes are more expensive than galvanized piping found in B-vent. However, B-vent chimney systems require vertical venting through the roof that ends along the roofline. Since direct vent piping can terminate horizontally on an outside wall, you may spend less on more expensive materials because you use less of those materials than you would if you installed a B-vent system.

direct vent flue collar and pipe

So, keep in mind that though direct vent chimney pipes are more costly than B-vent, your bill may be lower because direct vent piping installation is more flexible.

Will it heat as good as other gas fireplaces?

B-vent fireplaces may appear to heat better because the open firebox allows for more flame visibility. Though, it is worse than a direct vent gas fireplace because it sucks the air out of the room for combustion. So, with a B-vent fireplace, all you end up with is radiant heat that warms up the objects in your room.

On the other hand, vent-free fireplaces heat efficiently and release limited by-products into the air around you. However, they have limited output and are banned in many states due to concerns about exhaust fumes being released into the room. So, direct vent gas fireplace inserts and fireplaces are a great happy medium where you get heat efficiency and good air quality.

Is there more than one style?

While some consider gas-fueled fireplaces fake, the benefit of artificial-flame models is a wide variety of styles. So, if you must give up the authentic look of a wood-burning fireplace for a vented propane fireplace, you won't have to skimp on the overall aesthetics of your appliance.

Traditional:

Like the Empire 35 inch Tahoe , offered as a direct vent propane fireplace (or natural gas if preferred), the traditional fireplace style usually has a square opening with a cement log set and the appearance of real flames. They range from 32 to 60 inches in size. Most have fake brick, stone, or porcelain liners, but don't let this fake fireplace fool you; it will put off beautiful, realistic flames.

traditional direct vent fireplace

Linear / Modern:

You won't have to compromise flame visibility with this one. Linear models range from 36 to 100 inches wide because of their unique rectangular shape. Fire glass, stones, or pebbles often complement modern models like the Superior 60 inch DRL4000 instead of traditional logs.

linear direct vent fireplace

Specialty:

The Napoleon 38 Inch Allure Vertical Electric Fireplace is the perfect example of a specialty fireplace. Its narrow width allows it to squeeze into tight spaces in kitchens and smaller rooms where fireplaces aren't usually available. These models are also handy for condos or small apartments (where regulations allow).

kitchen direct vent fireplace

How do I care for my new fireplace?

Installation:

While the owner's manual will give you invaluable tips for maintaining a direct vent fireplace, you must contact an electrician to run a gas line and help you complete the installation. There are clearances required for installing a venting system and specific framing dimensions to be aware of when creating the opening for your new fireplace. This is not a job you want to tackle alone unless you have significant experience in home renovation.

Cleaning:

Thankfully, cleaning a gas fireplace is easier than installing one. Exhaust fumes escaping through the chimney from a vented gas fireplace insert or fireplace aren't nearly as tough on the flue as gases released from a wood-burning fireplace. So, you won't have to worry about creosote build-up in the chimney and only need to inspect the system termination occasionally. You'll want to check for yard debris or bird nests in the venting system about once a year. Remember to clean the glass 1-3 times yearly with water and a soft cloth.

Shipping:

I can't stress this point enough. You are responsible for checking for damages when your fireplace arrives at your home via a freight carrier. Before you allow the driver to leave, take a few moments to unwrap the package and look for cracks or dents. Freight carriers tend to heavily wrap these products and strap them down for extra protection, but at the end of the day, it is up to you to ensure you receive a fully intact fireplace.

Conclusion

Direct vent fireplace inserts and fireplaces are a happy medium between cost, efficiency, and air quality. For more info on direct vent fireplaces and comparisons between b-vent and vent-free fireplaces, click here for a full-length article or contact our NFI certified technicians.