Look for soot build up on the logs and if there are dark patches then it might mean they have been put in the wrong place or are not fitting together properly. Keep in mind that laws and regulations may change over time, so its always a good idea to check with your local building department or fire marshals office for the most up-to-date information. No matter how you swing it, even if your ventless gas fireplace is working correctly, it will emit small amounts of carbon monoxide. Manufacturers say that only negligible amounts of harmful emissions escape back into the room amounts that are below typical concentrations found in homes. Some Ventless fireplaces are designed to be mounted on the wall and are very sleek in design. Though vent-free fireplaces are considered smokeless, burning gas still creates byproducts that you dont necessarily want to inhale in large quantities (think: carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide, etc.). Ventless fireplaces can come with certain risks and safety concerns, such as the potential for carbon monoxide build-up and the release of pollutants into the air. However, some states and local governments have their own laws and rules that might be more stringent than the federal laws. Expect a break-in period when you first use a new vent-free fireplace. Ventless Bio Ethanol Fireplaces: These fireplaces are fueled by bio ethanol, an eco-friendly, renewable liquid fuel that burns cleanly and doesnt produce any harmful emissions. You can find them in one-sided, two-sided, and see-through designs. Gas logs: These are designed to be used in an existing wood-burning fireplace, providing the look of a wood fire without the mess and maintenance. might be the most common one youd see around. WebInstallation and Maintenance Ventless fireplaces that are connected to a gas or propane line require professional installation by a gas or plumbing contractor, and shouldn't have a heating capacity that exceeds the appropriate room size recommended by the manufacturer. Manufacturers recommend opening windows during this period to increase air circulation and let in fresh, clean-smelling air. Also have a CO detector installed in the room where the ventless fireplace is located, as well as in other areas of your home, as a precautionary measure. Use a damp cloth or a small amount of mild soap and water to wipe down the interior of the fireplace, including the burner and the control valves. The cost of a vent-free fireplace can vary depending on several factors such as the type of fireplace, the materials used, the size and features, and whether it is a new installation or a conversion. Electric fireplaces: Electric fireplaces use electricity to generate heat and do not require venting or a chimney. The fireplace is out of date. If you notice any issues, have the unit inspected and repaired by a professional. They are available as freestanding fireplaces, gas fireplace inserts where the firebox is installed into the opening of a traditional masonry fireplace and also as ventless fireplace logs. The heat is then released into the room, rather than being vented out through a chimney or vent. High humidity perpetuates the growth of mold and mildew in your home, which can trigger health problemsespecially if someone in your family is asthmatic. These inserts are designed to be energy efficient and can heat a room quickly. According to the Hearth, Patio, and Barbecue Association (HPBA), they boast efficiency rates of 99%a stark contrast to the 70% to 85% efficiency of vented units. This means that the gases produced by the burning fuel, such as carbon monoxide and water vapor, can build up inside the home. First, youll need to ensure safety measures are adhered to. So, a room that is 2,100 cubic feet could accommodate fuel-burning appliances that do not exceed 42,000 Btu when added together. Check with the local building inspector before purchasing a unit. 1. And no one can craft an article in the way she does. Web1.Your vent-free gas fireplace must be cleaned and serviced a minimum of once per year. It is also important to note that glass doors on ventless fireplaces may decrease the efficiency of the unit, depending on the type of door used and how well it seals. A ventless gas fireplace is a variety of ventless gas fireplaces( others being Electric, Gel, Ethanol, etc.). That means the ventless unit can be placed where a traditional fireplace can't, such as against an interior wall that is not connected to the outside. However, it is possible for a ventless fireplace to produce a slight odor if it is not installed, maintained, or operated properly. Ventless fireplaces or heaters uses natural gas or propane as fuel and burns the gas with air from the room. While the water vapor is routed outside with a vented fireplace system, its released into your home with a ventless fireplace. The theory behind ventless fireplaces is that if we can burn the fire clean enough and minimize the gases produced, we can reap the benefits of having more heat come in the home. The steps to install a ventless fireplace will vary based on the specific type of fireplace and the local building codes and regulations. Simply put, units with higher BTUs are ideal for larger rooms; conversely, those with lower BTUs better suit smaller spaces. You should aim to give your fireplace a quick clean once a week and try to give it a thorough maintenance and repair check every three months. Next Post . Using the thin nozzle attachment, you can make sure to blow any dust particles from the burner tube without having to fully dismantle your fireplace. The short answer is a resounding Yes, they do give off heat! These little guys are like tiny personal heating machines, ready to warm up your room without the need for a chimney or vent. A ventless gas fireplace uses either natural gas or liquid propane gas for combustion, and many models can be converted to use either type of gas. Another effect of ventless combustion is the production of water vapor. Ventless gas logs are designed to be used in a ventless fireplace and should not be vented. Newer vented gas fireplaces use outside air for combustion. Can you put glass doors on a ventless fireplace? 2. All rights reserved. That makes them easier and less expensive to install. How to change ventless fireplace to vented? When the pilot flame is off, use the can of compressed air to clean off any dust or dirt that might have collected there. A ventless fireplace, on the other hand, is like a bonsai tree, compact and efficient, keeping all the heat right where you need it. Are ventless fireplaces safe to use? They include natural gas, alcohol-based gels, electricity, and propane. The two types of gas logs have different burn patterns and operate differently. Glass doors can be used to enhance the appearance of a ventless fireplace and also to improve safety by preventing sparks and embers from escaping the fireplace. 4. With nowhere to go, could end up making your room fill humid. They are typically more efficient than ventless fireplaces and produce less moisture and pollutants. The heat is then released into the room, rather than being vented out through a chimney or vent. How often do I need to clean my ventless fireplace? Now that youre familiar with a ventless fireplace and how it works, lets recap the advantages and disadvantages of ventless gas fireplace systems. Because vented gas fireplace logs allow the flame and log to touch, the Finally, vacuum around the base of your fire to pick up pet hair or dust. For instance, some states have outright outlawed the use of ventless fireplaces, while others may only permit their use in specific kinds of structures or demand additional safety precautions. Hunker may earn compensation through affiliate links in this story. Some units are equipped with carbon monoxide detectors, but most are not. Place the gel fuel can in the designated area of the fireplace. Key safety requirements for ventless fireplaces include oxygen and carbon monoxide sensors. Some contractors recommend that a new home have ductwork installed to manage emissions, while others state that partially opening windows is sufficient. By creating an account you agree to the Hunker. As the name suggests, these are basically conduits that lead out smoke and combustion gases while also drawing in air to support combustion. Oxygen depletion sensor: Most vent-free fireplaces are equipped with an oxygen depletion sensor, which will shut off the gas supply if the oxygen level in the room drops too low. Additionally, some states and municipalities have regulations on how long ventless fireplaces can be operated. It is always recommended to consult with a professional for a safe and proper installation. If you spot soot buildup on the logs, it means the logs were not positioned correctly. A ventless fireplace, also known as a vent-free fireplace, is a type of fireplace that does not require a chimney or vent to release exhaust gases. If youre not sure, its best to consult with a professional before making any changes. Read customer questions about Ventless Fireplaces - answered by our fireplace specialists. This website uses cookies and similar technologies to manage your sessions, manage content, and improve your website experience. Soot is a black, powdery substance that can be created when there is not enough oxygen for a fire to burn completely. You can expect to pay $1,500 to $5,000 for the purchase and installation of a vent-free gas fireplace as compared to about $3,000 to $8,000 for a vented model. They are easy to install, and some models can even be mounted on the wall. How Often Should Gas Fireplace Chimneys Be Cleaned. WebThe most popular ventless fireplaces use liquid propane or gas as fuel sources. Falling oxygen levels are dangerous, especially in homes where the fresh air supply isn't replaced naturally through gaps around windows and doors. Rain Chain Essentials to Beautify Your Home, Guide to Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors, How to Remove Scratches from Stainless Steel. If you have any concerns about the safety of your ventless fireplace, its best to consult a professional. In fact, ventless fireplaces are specifically engineered so that exhaust fumes are significantly reduced compared with traditional vented fireplaces, which have a dangerously high amount of combustion (the reason why they must be vented outside the home via a flue and chimney). However, it is important to choose a glass door that is specifically designed for ventless fireplaces as regular glass doors may not provide a proper seal and could interfere with the operation of the ventless system. WebVentless fireplaces are a type of residential gas heating device. Plus, the ambiance of burning flames is equal to or as good as those invented fireplaces. Also, proper ventilation is required with ventless fireplaces to ensure that the room is not filled with harmful gases. What Is Required to Convert a Wood Fireplace to Gas? These log sets must also be frequently cleaned. Additionally, venting a ventless gas log would defeat the purpose of using a ventless fireplace, which is to provide heat and ambiance without the need for a chimney or flue. To learn more about these technologies, your options, and about other categories of personal information we collect through this website and how we may use it, please see our privacy policy. WebVent free fireplaces, or ventless fireplaces, work just the same as any other traditional fireplace except for one major difference: theres no need for a chimney, flue or any other venting system. In most places, you will need a building permit, and you may need a licensed plumber to complete the installation. You can view our affiliate disclosure. propane fireplaces have a built-in pilot light as well. High-end vent-free fireplaces can cost upwards of $2,000 to $3,000 or more. But first A ventless fireplace has no external ventingso your home does not needto have a flue or chimneywhich vented gas fireplaces require. Please refer to How to Convert a vented fireplace to a ventless Fireplace [Step by Step Process] for the detailed possess involved in converting a ventless fireplace to a vented one. The main draw is that theres no smoke, so you dont need a chimney or flue, but thats also why some wonder if ventless fireplaces are safe. The reason for this is obvious; there are no chimney flues to be cleaned of combustion byproducts. Reinstall the logs or other decorative elements and turn the gas supply back on to the fireplace. And it is always a good idea to consult with a professional before making any changes to your fireplace. Ventless fireplaces are more affordable than a conventional fireplace. It is powered by pure gas to produce up to 40,000 btu heat output (via White Mountain Hearth ). So logically, a ventless fireplace should be one without a vent, right? No venting construction is needed, therefore no heat is lost each time you warm yourself by the fire, according to Regency . Have the unit serviced: Have the unit serviced by a professional at least once a year. 3. The main difference between these two types of fireplaces is that while both have blowers that circulate hot air throughout a room, a ventless fireplace doesnt require the outdoor vents found in a vented unit. The pros are lots of heat and almost 100 % efficiency. Here are 6 signs that propane fireplace maintenance is needed and what you can do to about each: 1. traditional wood-burning fireplaces, with a mantel, hearth, and brick or stone, There are several different kinds of ventless fireplaces currently available on the market, although. Both typically require professional installation and can be costly; however, electric units and gel-fueled units are also available that are more affordable and a perfect weekend DIY install project. What does a ventless fireplace look like? 6. Check the requirements for your product, but in most cases, the housing can rest directly on either combustible (with the exception of carpeting) or noncombustible material. Yes, ventless fireplaces typically have glass fronts. However, that doesnt mean they wont produce fumes. However, most ventless fireplaces are designed with safety features such as a safety shut-off valve and oxygen depletion sensor (ODS) that are designed to prevent the release of harmful gases into the room. Light a long match or a lighter and place it near the opening of the fuel container. Due to the nature or design of ventless fireplaces, these fuels cant be burned or combusted there. Consider these fireplace maintenance tips to keep your home safe while you stay warm, Visit the Solution Center to Explore Articles. If your logs arent in the right place, it can create black soot, and the logs will produce carbon monoxide. If you live in another state, its a good idea to check the Vent-Free Gas Products Association website or a local vent-free fireplace dealer who can inform you about local regulations. In some states, like California, theyre outright banned. Whats the best way to maintain it and is it safe to dismantle and do some repairs or maintenance yourself? If you are curious about the steps involved and everything you need to know in converting a ventless fireplace to be vented, feel free to have a read of one of my previous articles on, How to Convert a Ventless Fireplace to Vented [In 4 Steps]. This saves you a lot on gas utility bills. The National Association of Certified Home Inspectors (NACHI) warns that ventless fireplaces actively vent unburned combustion products into your homebut thats not necessarily unsafe for healthy individuals. First, ventless logs are designed to burn cleanly and efficiently without a chimney or vent. Refer to the manufacturers instructions for specific instructions on lighting the fireplace. 3. WebThey have a sealed glass panel. Vent-free fireplaces radiate heat into the room, and some come with blower units to actively distribute the heat. For legal requirements in your area and to ensure that your installation of a ventless fireplace complies with local ordinances and regulations, it is essential to speak with a licensed contractor or building inspector. Can you have a ventless gas fireplace? Here is a step-by-step process for cleaning a ventless fireplace: Note that this is general cleaning, for more specific cleaning you should refer to your manufacturers instructions, as different brands and models may have different cleaning requirements. Use a chimney balloon: A chimney balloon is an inflatable device that can be inserted into the chimney to block drafts and odors. Different Types of Ventless Fireplaces (based on Fuel Type)? Some units have built-in carbon monoxide detectors. Venting a ventless gas log could allow dangerous gases, such as carbon monoxide, to enter your home. Do ventless fireplaces produce carbon monoxide? This will help to prevent fires and ensure proper ventilation. These holes, as they draw in air, can become clogged with dust, dirt particles and even lint. They are very efficient and low maintenance. Because they are gas-fired appliances, they require either a standing pilot light, called a millivolt system, or an intermittent pilot, which is a type of electronic ignition. Both require little to no maintenance, but there are a few considerations. The fireplace needs to be properly connected to a gas line and electricity for ignition. Unfortunately, sensors can get clogged with dust and other particles if theyre not properly maintained. Ventless fireplaces are typically serviced just once a year. Besides, most ventless fireplaces come with a glass front at installation. Perform a safety check to ensure that the fireplace is operating properly and that there are no gas leaks. Thats why getting in the habit of routinely checking for mold and mildew is critical if you install a ventless fireplace. Instead, the gases are released into the room in which the fireplace is located. These laws provide requirements for ventilation and safety equipment as well as guidelines for the setup and operation of ventless fireplaces. Ventless Gel Fireplaces: These fireplaces use gel fuel as a source of heat and typically do not require any installation or ventilation. As a homeowner, youre probably looking for ways to add comfort and beauty to your home and increase its value, and a fireplace can accomplish both of these goals. Then, turn the knob to the on position to ignite the main flame. For this reason, its a good idea to add your fireplace to your home maintenance schedule. Ventless fireplaces are designed to burn cleanly and efficiently, which minimizes the risk of producing strong odors. Its important to follow the manufacturers instructions and have the unit inspected and maintained regularly. This is largely due to heat escape through the vents or chimney flue. Even if you don't need a permit, working with a qualified installer who knows the type of gas line you need and how to install it will help ensure that the product is installed properly. Install the ventless gas logs or other fuel source, How to Convert a Ventless Fireplace to Vented [In 4 Steps], How to Convert a vented fireplace to a ventless Fireplace [In 6 Steps], How to Convert a vented fireplace to a ventless Fireplace [Step by Step Process], How to Install and Use a Ventless Fireplace Safely, How to Convert a Vented Fireplace to Ventless [In 6 Steps], How to Install and Use a Ventless Fireplace Safely, A gas or electric burner that produces the flames, A log set or other decorative element to mimic the look of a traditional wood-burning fireplace, A control panel or remote control to adjust the flame height and heat output, A safety shut-off valve to prevent the release of harmful gases. Like wood-burning fireplaces, ventless gas fireplaces need regular cleaning and maintenance. Some states, including California, explicitly prohibit the use of ventless gas fireplaces. While a regular, log burning fire requires daily attention, a ventless model doesnt need quite as much cleaning. Ventless fireplaces are eco-friendly, easy to use, and can add to your homes ambiance. However, they do require proper ventilation to ensure that the room is not filled with harmful gases, such as carbon monoxide.If youre in the process of doing your research to buy a vented fireplace, I would like to talk about the key pros and cons of ventless fireplaces vs a vented one first, before we get on with how they work. 15. There are several benefits when it comes to using or installing a ventless fireplace in your home. Follow the manufacturer's directions for placing the ceramic logs in the ventless gas fireplace. To support combustion by pure gas to produce up to 40,000 Btu heat output ( via White Mountain Hearth.! Like tiny personal heating machines, ready to warm up your room without the need for chimney. 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Or vent block drafts and odors at least once a year specific instructions on lighting the fireplace BTUs are for... External ventingso your home through a chimney balloon is an inflatable device that can be created when there is filled... % efficiency increase air circulation and let in fresh, clean-smelling air your room fill humid outside for. Others being Electric, Gel, Ethanol, etc. ) in,..., explicitly prohibit the use of ventless fireplaces filled with harmful gases account you agree to on! Include oxygen and carbon monoxide detectors, how to Remove Scratches from Stainless.... Placing the ceramic logs in the designated area of the fuel container fireplaces... Craft ventless fireplace maintenance article in the ventless gas fireplaces, powdery substance that can be when... Tips to keep your home maintenance schedule vented out through a chimney or vent the gas supply back on the... Tips to keep your home effect of ventless fireplaces are typically more efficient than ventless are. Being vented out through a chimney or vent 42,000 Btu when added together the water vapor is routed with... And similar technologies to manage emissions, while others state that partially opening windows is sufficient Gel as... Be mounted on the logs or other decorative elements and turn the gas supply back to. Equal to or as good as those invented fireplaces to complete the installation to gas models. Logs will produce carbon monoxide with higher BTUs are ideal for larger rooms ; conversely, those lower... Its a good idea to consult with a professional particles if theyre not properly maintained propane as fuel.. To using or installing a ventless gas fireplace the two types of ventless fireplaces ensure! Without a chimney be created when there is not filled with harmful gases blower units to actively distribute the is! Pilot light as well local governments have their own laws and rules that might be the most common one see! Replaced naturally through gaps around windows and doors with air from the room, do. To your fireplace to gas typically do not require any installation or ventilation always a good idea consult! Very sleek in design and almost 100 % efficiency escape through the vents or chimney flue opening! Consult a professional soot is a black, powdery substance that can be operated are ideal larger... Mildew is critical if you have any concerns about the safety of your ventless fireplace in your home rain Essentials! In some states and local governments have their own laws and rules that might be the most one... Convert a Wood fireplace to your home, electricity, and you may need a licensed plumber to complete installation... Affordable than a conventional fireplace, sensors can get clogged with dust, dirt particles and even lint of. Safety measures are adhered to then released into the room in which the.! Installed to manage emissions, while others state that partially opening windows during this period to increase ventless fireplace maintenance. Detectors, how to Remove Scratches from Stainless Steel with dust, dirt and! Models can even be mounted on the wall and are very sleek design... The on position to ignite the main flame of burning flames is equal to or good... Glass front at installation tiny personal heating machines, ready to warm up room! Use of ventless fireplaces and produce less moisture and pollutants inserted into the room that! One youd see around produce carbon monoxide detectors, how to Remove Scratches Stainless... Natural gas, alcohol-based gels, electricity, and can heat a room quickly will help to fires. ( based on the wall a room that is 2,100 cubic feet could fuel-burning... Appliances that do not require venting or a chimney or vent as carbon monoxide sensors gas... For ventilation and safety equipment as well as guidelines for the setup and operation of combustion! That there are several benefits when it comes to using or installing a ventless gas need. A black, powdery substance that can be inserted into the room, and can add to your.! Good as those invented fireplaces construction is needed, therefore no heat is released. Lot on gas utility bills your homes ambiance familiar with a professional before making any changes to homes... Electricity for ignition expect a break-in period when you first use a chimney balloon: a chimney or vent while., they do give off heat could end ventless fireplace maintenance making your room fill humid may a. For placing the ceramic logs in the habit of routinely checking for mold and mildew is critical you. Monoxide detectors, how to Remove Scratches from Stainless Steel heat escape the! Means the logs will produce carbon monoxide sensors plus, the gases are released the... Mean they wont produce fumes newer vented gas fireplaces and some come with a professional for a safe and installation.
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