Pros & Cons of Vented & Unvented Gas Fireplaces

Vented Gas Fireplace Pros

• Direct vented gas fireplaces are constructed in a prefabricated metal casing with metal standoffs above the unit. This construction provides ease of installation because no complex foundation or masonry is required. The metal casing can be set directly on a plywood floor. Vented gas fireplaces are easy to operate and can be started with the touch of a button. Advanced artificial logs provide the appearance of a real wood fire and the unit can produce significant heat. Direct vented gas fireplace units can achieve up to an 88 percent Steady State Efficiency rating, according to the Fireplaces Now website.

Vented Gas Fireplace Cons

• Vented gas fireplaces are limited to locations that offer access to an outside vent. They may be vented through a traditional fireplace chimney. Direct vented gas fireplaces may be vented through a side or rear wall. Some gas logs have an appearance that is less than realistic. Some models have a continuously burning pilot light which can waste energy and increase your operating cost. Vented gas fireplaces are less efficient than their unvented counterparts and tend to cost more to purchase and install.

Unvented Gas Fireplace Pros

• Unvented gas fireplaces can be placed almost anywhere, since they are not tethered to a vent. Unvented gas fireplaces tend to cost less than their vented counterparts, according to the Custom Fireplaces and More website. Since there is no chimney or vent to allow the heat generated by an unvented gas fireplace to escape, the heating capacity for these units is excellent.

Unvented Gas Fireplace Cons

• The flames produced by unvented gas fireplaces tend to be less realistic than vented models. While unvented gas fireplaces have a high efficiency burn rate, they do not burn 100 percent of their fuel, resulting in indoor air pollution, which may include measurable levels of carbon monoxide and nitrogen dioxide. Some consumers may experience irritation of the eyes and throat. You may need to open a window an inch or two to provide sufficient fresh air. The Accurate Inspections website recommends installing a carbon monoxide alarm if you operate an unvented gas fireplace in your home.