Information on Natural Gas Fireplace Inserts

Fireplace Insert Design

• Gas fireplace inserts consist of a metal firebox equipped with decorative fake logs and gas jets. When the gas from the jets is ignited, the insert sucks in fresh air and warms it.
  The firebox is enclosed by a layer of air and a layer of metal that keeps the warm air produced by the inner box trapped before releasing it into the atmosphere for warmth. The air needed for combustion is drawn in from the room or a second vent pipe. Certain fireplace inserts have blowers or fans that force the air into the room to uniformly distribute the heat. Others have glass doors that radiate heat into the room.

B-Vent Fireplaces

• Also called natural vent fireplaces, these inserts draw air from the room for combustion and pass the pollutants from the gas outside through a roof chimney or wall vent. They generate less heat than direct vent models but normally have more decorative and ornate designs. Often preferred for homes in warmer climates, B-vent fireplace inserts come in several styles, including one-sided; left- or right-side open; see through, which displays the from two sides; and peninsula, which provides a three-sided view of the fire.

Direct View Fireplace Inserts

• If you don’t have a chimney in your home, a direct vent fireplace is a good choice because it uses a vent in the back of the unit to expel the pollutants outside. They have zero-clearance with no exposed hot surfaces, so they're good for homes with pets or small children. The fire in direct view fireplaces burns steady, utilizing outside air to keep the flames constant and uniform. They're available in the same styles as B-vent fireplaces.

Ventless Fireplaces

• Ventless fireplaces produce the most realistic-looking flames and produce the greatest amount of heat. The heat of the flames is so intense that the gas burns with nearly 100 percent combustion and nearly no emissions, which makes it safe to use in any room in the home without fear of air pollutants. Like direct view fireplaces, certain ventless models have cool exteriors that pose no burning hazards. Ventless fireplaces are only available in one-sided styles.