Difference Between Direct Vent & B Vent

Direct Vent

• Direct vent flues can run vertically through the roof or horizontally through a wall. They are closed units that pull outside air for combustion through one pipe, and send the byproducts of burning back out through another.

B Vent

• B vent flues are smaller in diameter and must run vertically through the roof. They draw the room's air for combustion.

Comparison

• Because direct vent fireplaces are closed units, they eliminate loss of heat through the flue. They're also more expensive than B vents. B vents, while less efficient, are better for smaller rooms where direct vent units could create too much heat. Both are available with electric starters or pilot lights. Electric starters are more convenient, but a pilot light ensures that you'll still have heat if you lose power.

Advantages

• Direct vent and B vent fireplaces require no clearance to combustibles, need no existing chimney and can be used in any part of the home.