Distiguished Fireplace Covers For Every Decor
Heating the Home – Vented Gas Fireplaces vs. Vent-free Gas Fireplaces
Before electrical appliances were invented, the central part of the home was where the fireplace was.
The fireside was where people gathered to cook food, to get warm, to swap stories, and to keep each other company.
Initially, people used wood as fuel. Nowadays though, using gas is becoming more popular. This is because some countries have banned the burning of solid fuel such as wood, and using gas is more convenient – it is no longer necessary to gather and chop wood, there are no ashes to clean up, and it is easy to start a fire.
What are vented and vent-free gas fireplaces?
There are two types of gas fireplaces: those with vents and those without vents. Vents are pipes or other openings that allow fireplaces access to the external environment. For example, traditional fireplaces that are converted to burn gas instantly become vented gas fireplaces because of the presence of the chimneys.
On the other hand, fireplaces without vents are installed in homes where having vents are not possible: examples are in rented homes that do not allow creating holes on the walls or in high density residential buildings where the walls only separate different units and not the home to the outside environment.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of using these gas fireplaces?
The main disadvantage of using vented gas fireplaces is that part of the heat produced is just released outside the home. In some cases, most of the heat is expelled, causing more expense than is necessary. On the other hand, vent-free gas fireplaces release most of the heat inside the room making this model more energy efficient.
However, many will agree that having a vent is important for safety. Burning fuel such as natural or propane gas produces carbon monoxide as a byproduct. This substance is an odorless and colorless gas that can be deadly in substantial amounts. Releasing this outside the home is important to keep everyone inside the home out of harm’s way.
It should be noted, though, that many gas fireplaces without vents should be safe enough if the home is ventilated enough and does not to trap air inside.
How much do these fireplaces cost?
Bizrate.com can link you stores that sell vent-free models that cost between $63.90 and $1,006.20 and vented models at $971.10 to 2,707.20.
It is important to prioritize safety before price and comfort. Make sure that your home is well ventilated before installing a vent-free gas fireplace. Also, follow product instructions whether you are installing a vent-free or a vented model, and set up your fireplace only in places where the manufacturer said the product can be installed.