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Home Contact Us Interesting Links Disclaimer		FireplaceGuide.com » Ventless Fireplaces Pros and Cons of Ventless Fireplaces Over the years many sources of heating homes have been introduced to the consumer. One of these was ventless fireplaces and along with it came many controversies regarding the disadvantages of using a gas ventless fireplace. This controversy may have merit, but if this type of fireplace is installed properly and maintained, it can prove to be a very beneficial source of heat in your home. Ventless fireplaces can be used in a single room or used as a second source of heat in a larger room depending on the room size. They do not require a flue or a chimney or any external venting ducts making them economical to install compared to the traditional gas or wood fireplace. They burn gas or propane and feed off the existing air in the room. These fireplaces are made with such taste, that they add to the look of any room and can really help in any room that stays chilly. They can also give any room a very cozy and even romantic feeling and all you need for hook up is a line from your gas company and you're on your way. The best way to choose what type of ventless fireplace you want is to determine how you will use it. Each fireplace will tell you how much energy it consumes and how much heat it gives out. This way you can judge where you need it and what you expect out of it. The BTUs are very important as this tells you exactly how much heat the fireplace will give off. It is best not to put an oversized fireplace into a small room. When they say a ventless fireplace, of course it can't be completely vent less as all fire needs oxygen to create the flame. What ventless means is that you don't need a chimney direct venting system to use it, but as with all that we use in heating inside the home you will need some type of ventilation with this. That is why the volume of air within the room is very important. The safest way to use a ventless fireplace is as a secondary heat source, such as on an especially chilly night or for a quick heat in a room that feels cool. There is a great advantage of having this type of fireplace if you use electric heat for your primary source of heat and the power happens to go out. This is one time when it will really come in handy. There are some disadvantages to owning a ventless fireplace and one of the greatest concerns are health issues. Some countries have banned the use of these altogether because of their potential to build up carbon monoxide while it depletes the oxygen, which can lead to unconsciousness or suffocation. There is also an issue of these fireplaces causing an increase of humidity in a room. With burning gas or propane, it causes vapors to build up and this can lead to mold or mildew. A working carbon monoxide detector is absolutely essential. Anyone suffering with allergies is discouraged from getting one of these ventless fireplaces, as it could make the person very sick. It is your own decision to purchase one of these and it is completely up to the individual as long as they are not banned where you live. If you think you can live with this fireplace, it can be a very big asset at times when it is extra cold outside and you run it for a short period of time. It can prove to be quite cozy as the wind howls outside your window. Back to top
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