If you do not have a chimney in your home, choosing from a variety of ventless gas fireplaces may be your best option. Ventless gas fireplaces are gas burning, energy efficient models that create heat through specially designed logs and effective oxygen combustion. With the ventless gas fireplace, you can enjoy constant and steady heat with a very low energy cost. Since there is no venting done through a chimney, the ventless fireplace will need to be installed in a home where there are plenty of windows and vents available.

Many people choose a ventless gas fireplace for their energy efficiency and cost savings in the long-term. A professional installer will need to measure and install your space, and building codes will need to be followed in most cases. Some states and regions do not allow ventless gas fireplaces in any home, so it is important to check with a professional inspector before proceeding with your investment. Most are installed with an oxygen depletion sensor, which can help detect the amount of carbon monoxide present in the air. When this reaches a dangerous level, the burner can shut off automatically.

The main difference in this type of fireplace and others is the amount of heat it produces. The ventless fireplace will generally provide more heat than all other types and models, simply because the heat does not escape anywhere but into the home itself. You can find very realistic logs and embers to decorate and use this fireplace, and it is recommended to burn for short periods of time since the output of heat is so high. These are generally recommended as supplemental heat sources because they are a risky type of heating system. They will come with a thermostatic control system, but will generally warm up your room and living space within a few hours.

Fireplace doors need to be kept open during use, as they serve as a form of natural ventilation. Keeping a couple of windows open is recommended, as the heat can become overwhelming very quickly since it is so concentrated. Flammable materials and furniture need to be kept at least three feet from the fireplace itself, since embers and ash may lead to a house fire.

If your building inspector can approve it, a ventless gas fireplace may be a great investment for short term, heat-intensive use. These fireplaces are cost-effective, energy efficient, and can increase the value of your home with minimal upfront investment.