Are Flueless & Ventless Fireplaces Safe?

Advantages and Disadvantages

• Ventless fireplaces are an inexpensive option that can heat homes quickly and contribute to a room's ambience. Ventless fireplaces are more efficient because the heated air cannot escape through a chimney flue or other venting. However, the carbon monoxide produced by the fire is released into living areas. The efficiency is reduced by the manufacturer's recommendations to open a window or door close to the heat source. Ventless fireplaces also increase humidity in the home that can create a mold-friendly environment.

Carbon Monoxide

• Small amounts of carbon monoxide (CO) are released into the home from even properly installed unvented fireplaces. The most dangerous aspect of CO is that it is odorless, colorless and toxic. CO can affect your health before you realize it is present. In smaller doses it can cause fatigue, chest pain, confusion and nausea. In higher doses, CO is fatal. The Environmental Protection Agency recommends vented fireplaces to reduce CO levels in the home.

Selection

• To ensure home safety and air quality, follow the manufacturer's recommendations closely. Do not buy a unit that is too powerful for the room. All units will have room size recommendations on their packaging. Select a unit with an automatic shutoff valve when air quality is compromised. However, do not depend on the unit's shutoff valve alone; make sure you have a carbon monoxide and smoke detector nearby. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission warns against using unvented heating in any room where people are sleeping.

Precautions

• Take precautions with any fire in the home. The National Fire Protection Association recommends keeping anything that can burn, and children, three feet away from the heat source. Get yearly professional service to keep ventless fireplaces in good working order. Invest in a carbon monoxide detector to ensure safe air quality in your home. Despite home improvement centers selling ventless fireplaces, the National Fire Protection Association recommends getting a professional installation of stationary heat sources.