Brass Trimmed Gel Fireplaces

The Oakland

• The Oakland Fireplace in Brass Trim, manufactured by Sunjel, is a freestanding model with horizontal top and bottom brass trim. The steel frame is 26 inches high, 36 inches wide and 12 inches deep. A metal screen protects you from the flames generated by the fuel while decorative, nonflammable logs appear to burn. This model also comes in nickel

Sunjel Freemont

• Like the Oakland, the Freemont Brass Trim Corner Gel Fireplace, also by Sunjel, has ornamental brass bands across the top and bottom. As a freestanding unit, it can be placed anywhere, but its angled back makes it a especially good fit for room corners. The Sunjel Freemont is for indoor or outdoor use. As the fake logs burn, the unit produces a sound similar to that of wood splitting under high heat. This brass model weighs 46 pounds and reaches 25 inches high, 29 inches wide and 19 inches deep.

How It Works

• The gel that creates the flames in a ventless fireplace is made of alcohol. It burns into water vapor and does not produce smoke or harmful gases. The gel fuel is contained inside a can you place under the nonflammable logs, hiding it from sight. The fake wood has holes through which the flames rise through, creating the illusion that the logs are burning.

Pros and Cons

• Whether you are considering a brass-trimmed gel fireplace or one with another finish, consider that these self-contained units accumulate moisture because the fuel burns into water vapor. While that may not pose a problem if you live in the dry high desert, your fireplace may become a breeding ground for quick-growing mold if your home is in one of the humid Southern states. To counterbalance this drawback, the unit is portable and can be lit in any room. Besides, you don’t have to spend money on installation and on chimney or vent maintenance.