How to Choose a Ventless Fireplace

Ventless Gas Fireplace

Choosing a ventless fireplace for your home involves more than aesthetics. These heaters are designed to provide supplemental heat for short periods, and are not intended as a primary heating source. Because the propane burner releases unburned combustion byproducts into the living area, operating instructions must be followed closely to prevent a buildup of carbon monoxide or a depletion of oxygen in the home. In addition, ventless fireplaces may raise the humidity level in the home, causing problems with mold or mildew.

Things You'll Need

• Tape measure

Instructions

1. Measure the room where you intend to place the ventless fireplace. Multiply the length of the room by the width to get the number of square feet in the room. You will need this number when choosing the appropriate model for your home.

2. Compare the square footage you have calculated to the manufacturer's recommendations. This insures safe operation of the fireplace and may prevent injuries. Installing a fireplace that is too large for the area may pose health risks.

3. Look for a model with an automatic shutdown in the event of a venting or combustion problem, in addition to an oxygen meter and carbon monoxide detector. These may avert potentially life-threatening issues with your ventless fireplace.

4. Check the safety standards of the ventless fireplace to find out it if is approved for your intended use. Using the ventless fireplace for an hour or two in the evening, to set the mood for rest and relaxation, may be safe, but running the heater for more than 6 or 7 hours typically is not. Pay close attention to any safety precautions listed in the manufacturer's operating instructions, along with suggested uses and special requirements.

5. Check the building codes for your city or town. Some states prohibit the use of ventless fireplaces, and some municipalities prohibit their use even if the state does not.

6. Consider the appearance of the ventless fireplace, once all safety issues have been addressed. Choose the ventless fireplace that best complements your decor.

Tips & Warnings

• Cracking a window to allow for air exchange reduces the risk of carbon monoxide buildup or oxygen depletion.

• Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for operating your ventless fireplace.

References

• National Association of Certified Home Inspectors; Ventless Fireplace Inspection; Nich Gromicko, et al.
• U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission: CPSC Warns Hazards from Heaters and Fireplaces; December 2004

Resources

• U.S. Fire Administration: Exposing an Invisible Killer: The Dangers of Carbon Monoxide