What Type Of Vent Free Fireplace Is Right For You?

Ventless fireplaces are one of the most misunderstood hearth products on the market. Many myths have formulated over the years that created doubt about the safety and efficiency of ventless gas fireplaces.

Out of all the things our NFI certified techs consider when giving advice to our customers, safety is at the top of the list. Our promise is to never sell you something we wouldn't install in our own home.

Because we are confident in the reliability of ventless fireplace products, for this article, we will skip the spill on the reasons you can trust them and move straight on to discussing how to know which one is the best fit for you.

It's important to note, that before you begin looking for a ventless fireplace, they are not meant to be used as a main source of heat for your home. They should only be used for four hours or less continuously and work best in larger spaces.

So, don't get any ideas about leaving these things on all night while cuddling your fur children in bed.

Three Types of Ventless Fireplaces

The term vent free, or ventless fireplace, is used to describe fireplaces that do not require venting for installation. This modern wonder occurs because they don't produce combustion by-products like a traditional wood burning or gas fireplace. In most cases, vent free fireplaces produce little to absolutely no emissions at all.

If the idea of having a fireplace without having to install a venting system sounds like a dream, then a ventless fireplace may be perfect for you. Keep reading as we discuss the three types of vent free fireplaces you can choose from.

Ventless Ethanol Fireplaces

The biggest perk to a ventless ethanol fireplace is the fuel it burns. Manufactured from renewable resources such as corn, beets, or potatoes, ethanol produces a very clean-burning fuel that excites environmentally conscious people around the country.

ethanol chart

The second bonus is a ventless ethanol fireplace can be installed just about anywhere. Due to their low heat output, these models are great for people in warmer climates who want to enjoy the beauty of flames without an overpowering experience of heat. Not to mention, their low output gives them many options for placement, as they can be installed next to flammable objects.

Ventless Electric Fireplaces

Ventless electric fireplaces are in a category all their own. Many people rave over the modern adaptation to a traditional fireplace because of the flexibility of the unit. Vent free electric fireplaces come in linear or traditional styles.

The adaptability of flame height, color, and option to deactivate the heating component make these units so much fun to work with. Staring at the same style of flame night after night is a thing of the past when you buy a vent free electric fireplace.

vent free electric fireplace

Also, many of these units are portable, so it is OK to get attached because you can take them from house to house as you move and enjoy new experiences.

Ventless Gas Fireplaces

Ventless gas fireplaces are very efficient heat sources for your home. Because they don't have traditional venting that allows heat to escape through a chimney flue, they maintain a higher BTU that can be approved for use in bathrooms, bedrooms or small living spaces. Just remember, don't let the appliance burn for more than four hours at a time.

vent free fireplace with white mantel

In addition to being an excellent source of heat, ventless gas fireplaces also come in a variety of designs. They can be wall-mounted, linear or traditional shaped or double-sided.

The only downside with vent free gas fireplaces is they produce more combustion by-products than their ventless counterparts (the electric and ethanol models).

Conclusion

If you are looking for another source of heat in your house, and don't want to reconfigure your entire HVAC, then a ventless fireplace may be a great option for you. They produce very little combustion by-product.

There are several models available for under $1000, so you can warm your home without breaking the bank. Vent free fireplaces are way less of a pain to install as well. So, keep these things in mind when considering what heating appliance to buy for your home.

If you have specific questions, please reach out to our NFI certified technicians Monday to Friday 8:30a to 5:30p CT.