A Quick Guide to Understanding Fireplace Venting
Fireplaces have different venting methods, primarily based on the fuel type you previously chose. There are six different vent types, and we'll discuss each one and what you can expect.
Different Vent Types
- Masonry: Masonry venting is designed as part of a UL-listed system. It is more reliable than traditional brick-and-mortar chimneys and easier to assemble—blocks cast from lighter-weight concrete than standard block or brick save time and weight. For safety, all masonry chimneys must be lined, and the liners must be separated from the chimney wall.
- Direct Vent: Gas fireplaces typically feature direct venting, utilizing inner and outer pipes. It brings fresh air in for burning while simultaneously exhausting the bad flue gasses out of your home. While it should be noted that some of the heat will be lost through the chimney, direct-vent gas fireplaces boast high-efficiency ratings and remain very adaptable to your home. One of our NFI-certified technicians wrote a buyer's guide for direct vent fireplaces if you'd like to learn more.
- B-Vent: Gas fireplaces can also use B-vent, a double-walled venting system that carries flue exhaust out of your home. B-vent fireplaces look similar to wood fireplaces but don't allow burning wood. They should also be considered decorative fireplaces, not heating sources. We have our B-Vent Fireplaces Buyer's Guide available if you'd like to learn more!
- Vent Free: Vent free (or ventless) fireplaces are exactly that – fireplaces that don't require venting. Vent free gas fireplaces are very popular, though some cities and states have prohibited them due to safety concerns. For more information about the safety of vent-free fireplaces, please read our article: Are Vent Free Fireplaces Really Dangerous?
- Wood Vent: Like the others, the name gives it away. Wood venting is for wood-burning fireplaces. This venting type uses a double—or triple-wall pipe to carry the smoke away from your fireplace or stove. Follow the manufacturer's instructions on what venting to use for your hearth! If you want to learn more, we have a Wood Burning Fireplaces Buyer's Guide just for you.
- Built-In Vent: Fireplaces with built-in venting are complete without adding additional venting. These are often outdoor fireplaces and may be mistakenly called vent-free.
If you have questions about a specific fireplace and what venting it needs or want to ensure that your home is suited for venting, don't hesitate to contact our NFI-certified technicians! But for now, let's proceed to the next step: selecting your view type.
