We dont care: where you purchased your fireplace; the make of your fireplace; the model of your fireplace; the age of your fireplace; when your fireplace was last serviced; Our Goal is to FIX your Fireplace! 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. 20. However, when used in a vented fireplace, the byproducts of combustion (such as carbon monoxide) will not be properly vented to the outside of the home, which could create a dangerous situation. Every fireplace needs regular cleaning and maintenance. Use a new paintbrush to scare up dust buried deep in the logs so you can get it with the vacuum. 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. No matter how you swing it, even if your ventless gas fireplace is working correctly, it will emit small amounts of carbon monoxide. You can determine if you have a vent-free fireplace by looking for certain characteristics and features. Due to safety concerns, several states and municipalities have outlawed the use of ventless fireplaces, while others have placed limitations on it. The fireplace is out of date. Some jurisdictions prohibit the use of vent-free fireplaces or fireplace log sets, but even areas that allow them may not allow them in bedrooms. Its like a warm hug from the inside out. But wood-burning fireplaces can be inefficient and messy, not to mention a health hazard. You want to use your fireplace more. Have a look at one of my previous articles on How to Convert a vented fireplace to a ventless Fireplace [In 6 Steps] for the detailed possess. So, what fuels burn clean? Plus general maintenance is necessary but minimal. Are you sick and tired of having drafts come down your chimney and waste your money on heating? There should be a diagram in the instructions, but its probably wise to install a carbon monoxide detector near your fireplace, anyway. These holes, as they draw in air, can become clogged with dust, dirt particles and even lint. This is although the only air needed to keep the flame burning is within the room. WebVentless gas fireplaces work by burning natural gas or liquid propane. Whats the best way to maintain it and is it safe to dismantle and do some repairs or maintenance yourself? Additionally, ventless fireplaces must be installed and used in accordance with the manufacturers instructions and local building codes to ensure safe operation. Well, why not convert it to a vented fireplace? While a regular, log burning fire requires daily attention, a ventless model doesnt need quite as much cleaning. Generally, we dont recommend combustion products for people with health problems, says Angela Tin, the American Lung Associations vice president of environmental health. The only way to do this is by doing the needful; maintenance. High humidity perpetuates the growth of mold and mildew in your home, which can trigger health problemsespecially if someone in your family is asthmatic. Gel fuel fireplaces: These fireplaces use gel fuel canisters to generate heat and do not require venting or a chimney. Use a chimney balloon: A chimney balloon is an inflatable device that can be inserted into the chimney to block drafts and odors. Supplementary heating in this sense doesnt refer to ventless fireplaces playing second fiddle to any other fireplace type. WebTo properly maintain your ventless fireplace, have a qualified professional perform an annual cleaning and maintenance check to reduce carbon monoxide emissions. There are several different kinds of ventless fireplaces currently available on the market, although gas might be the most common one youd see around. In this case, it is important to have the unit inspected and serviced by a professional to identify and correct the problem. The fireplace needs to be properly connected to a gas line and electricity for ignition. 2. These help to detect oxygen drop as well as carbon monoxide presence. Without a chimney, carbon monoxide and other fumes are vented right into the room (albeit in small amounts, as long as everything is working properly). 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. Its worth noting that ventless fireplaces are not legal or permitted in some places and it is important to check with local building codes before installing any type of ventless fireplace. Check the air flow: Make sure that the unit is getting the proper amount of fresh air and that the exhaust is properly vented. These fireplaces have a gas line that runs to the unit, and a control valve that regulates the flow of gas to the burner. Ventless Electric Fireplaces: These fireplaces use electricity as a heat source and can be easily installed in any room of the home. If yours doesn't come with one, install a carbon monoxide detector nearby to alert you if levels become hazardous. Keep the area around the unit clear: Keep the area around the unit clear of flammable materials, such as curtains, furniture, or rugs. Can You Use Ventless Gas Logs in a Vented Fireplace? Most ventless gas fireplaces have an oxygen-depletion sensor (ODS) that shuts down the fireplace if oxygen levels in your home become dangerously low. They release a small amount of moisture and carbon dioxide into the room, which is why they are considered safe for use in vent-free fireplaces. The reason for this is obvious; there are no chimney flues to be cleaned of combustion byproducts. WebVentless fireplaces are a type of residential gas heating device. 24. In addition, you can check with your local home builders association or professional trade organization for information on the use of ventless fireplaces in your area. Vented gas logs release combustion by-products, such as water vapor and carbon dioxide, through a chimney or flue, while ventless gas logs release the same by-products into the room where the fireplace is located. Use a soft-bristled brush or a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to remove any loose debris or ash from the interior of the fireplace. Rather, it points to the possibility of adding more ventless fireplace units to other areas or rooms within a home. Use a dry cloth to remove any remaining moisture. The typical vent-free fireplace consists of a firebox, a burner that produces the flames, and ceramic logs and embers to provide the look of a wood-burning fire. 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. It is not recommended to change vented gas logs to ventless. Manufacturers say that only negligible amounts of harmful emissions escape back into the room amounts that are below typical concentrations found in homes. In general, you should turn off the unit and the pilot light and wait for the fireplace to cool down completely before cleaning it. Wood-burning fireplaces: These fireplaces burn wood to generate heat and require a chimney to vent the smoke and combustion gases outside. However, a slight odor may be present when the fireplace is first turned on, as the unit is burning off any dust or debris that may have accumulated during storage or transportation. With nowhere to go, could end up making your room fill humid. This is normal and should dissipate quickly. 1. You want the latest gas hearth features. 7. Remove the logs to expose the burner assembly. Ventless logs, also known as vent-free logs, are not typically designed to be used in a vented fireplace. If your logs arent in the right place, it can create black soot, and the logs will produce carbon monoxide. If you have a fireplace, you may know or have heard about vented and ventless fireplaces. First American Home Warranty does not assume any responsibility for losses or damages as a result of using this information. These sensors will automatically shut off the fireplace if the oxygen level in the room drops too low, preventing the buildup of soot. Its always best to consult the manufacturers instructions or check with your local authorities before using your ventless fireplace. Remodeling is often required for vented fireplaces as youll need to use a flue. this will ensure that the fireplace is running efficiently and safely, and that any issues that may be contributing to bad smells are addressed. A custom ventless gas fireplace can cost between $2,500 and $4,000, whereas a vented fireplace can cost between $5,000 and $6,000. This website is presented for information only and is not intended to substitute for professional or medical advice. And it is always a good idea to consult with a professional before making any changes to your fireplace. Electric fireplaces typically come with a remote control that allows you to adjust the temperature and flame settings. Manufacturers spell out ways to achieve adequate ventilation, such as installing grilles between adjoining rooms or grilles connected to the outside. Its important to use the correct type of gas logs for your fireplace to ensure safety and proper operation. Instead, the gases are released into the room in which the fireplace is located. Its important to check the regulations and safety guidelines of the use of ventless fireplaces in your area, and consult with a professional before installation. These log sets must also be frequently cleaned. There are several benefits when it comes to using or installing a ventless fireplace in your home. As the NACHI points out, this is why vent-free fireplaces have been met with safety complaints from numerous watchdog groups, including the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the Mayo Clinic, and the American Lung Association. 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]. What is a vent free fireplace insert? Ventless fireplaces are designed to burn cleanly and efficiently, which minimizes the risk of CO production. Its important to keep in mind that these prices are for the fireplace unit only and do not include installation costs, which can vary depending on the complexity of the installation and the location of the fireplace in the home. Since theres no chimney flue, all the heat produced remains within your home. Vent-free fireplaces are zero-clearance units, which means the unit can be placed near combustible building materials, but check the installation requirements for your fireplace carefully because most units do require a few inches of clearance around certain parts of the housing. Both indoor and outdoor units are available. Venting a ventless gas log could allow dangerous gases, such as carbon monoxide, to enter your home. One of the main benefits of having a ventless fireplace installed is because it burns clean. That makes them easier and less expensive to install. You can buy a ventless gas fireplace at home centers and fireplace dealers. So, vent-free fireplaces come equipped with oxygen depletion sensors that shut down the fireplace if the oxygen level falls below 18 percent. A ventless gas fireplace relies on room air for combustion. The goal is to keep air inlet tubes on the burner and the pilot free of dirt, hair, lint, and any other debris that can clog them. What are the safety mechanisms in a ventless fireplace? Wait for the fuel to ignite and adjust the flame to your desired height. Ventless fireplaces work by using a gas or electric (or other fuel type) burner to produce heat and flames. They include keeping a functioning fire extinguisher close by for safety purposes. The National Fuel Gas Code (NFPA 54/ANSI Z223.1) and the International Residential Code govern the usage of ventless fireplaces in the US (IRC). However, some states and local governments have their own laws and rules that might be more stringent than the federal laws. 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. However, if the ventless fireplace is installed and used correctly, it can be safe to use. Here are the advantages. The inserts of a vent free fireplace typically includes a burner, a log set, and a control valve. Because they rely on room air, ventilation is important when operating a vent-free fireplace. Ordinarily, fuels such as firewood and pellets will produce smoke when burned. If you dont maintain your ventless fireplace, you could find it will stop working properly or even become clogged, hazardous and even start to smell. Next Post . But how do you make sure your new fireplace stays efficient and clean for years to come? Some contractors recommend that a new home have ductwork installed to manage emissions, while others state that partially opening windows is sufficient. When the fireplace is turned on, the gas flow is increased, and the burner produces a flame. The main catch is that they aren't an option everywhere some states and municipalities have strict rules against them for safety reasons. Ventless fireplaces or heaters uses natural gas or propane as fuel and burns the gas with air from the room. This post may contain affiliate links. Press the igniter button and wait for the pilot light to ignite. Others include avoiding direct contact with hot areas, positioning the log set correctly is necessary. 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