Are Non-Vented Fireplace Inserts Safe?

Types

• Fireplace inserts are made of various materials, from cast iron to plate steel. They're usually very heavy and can be difficult to install. Most have glass doors so you can enjoy sitting and watching your fire. Inserts slide into the opening of your fireplace. Some are designed to be flush with the fireplace or stove opening, while others extend out at the sides and front. Blowers are inserted into some inserts, operated either manually or by thermostat.

Vented

• Vented fireplace inserts offer additional safety with fireplace use, as they reduce potential to build up fumes in a room or household. Vented inserts also use air pulled from more than just the room that's being heated. A vented insert draws combustion exhaust outside and away from the inside of a room or building. Vented fireplace inserts approved by the EPA provide safe draw of air and removal of combustion exhaust from the fireplace, regardless of the fuel source for fireplace operation.

Non-Vented

• Non-vented fireplace inserts don't allow combustion exhaust to flow outside through vents in the back, but vent exhaust or fumes caused by combustion into the room being heated. Increased risk of fumes or dangerous combustion from a non-vented insert is always possible, as are soot, carbon or carbon monoxide poisoning, especially in situations where gas or propane operates the fireplace. Non-vented fireplace inserts may also increase amount of smoke and air pollution indoors. Such situations may prove especially harmful to those diagnosed with lung conditions such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Codes

• Check your local building codes for installation of vented or non-ventilated fireplace inserts. In addition, check with the National Fire Protection Association regarding vented and non-vented fireplace inserts. The Environmental Protection Agency offers information regarding emissions. It recommends high-efficiency and environmentally friendly wood stoves for clean burns and reduction of emissions to 4.5 grams to 7.5 grams per hour. Whenever possible, choose vented fireplace inserts over non-vented for increased safety and efficiency.