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Ventless Fireplaces - Considerations before You Purchase
Submitted by jcstoner
Your choice in fireplaces used to be very limited. The homeowner basically had a choice between the vented wood burning or gas fireplace. But now there are definitely more options. The ventless fireplace has opened new options for the homeowner, condo owner and even apartment dwellers. There are, however several things to consider when buying.
For starters, the ventless fireplace can be permanently installed or can be portable. What is best for your particular situation needs to be carefully considered. If you're renovating an existing fireplace than installing a ventless fireplace insert is a good option. If you're not into tearing out walls and running flu pipe, than a portable ventless fireplace is the way to go. For apartments, condos, offices or anywhere else there is limited space the portable fireplace is usually the best choice.
If you opt for the permanently installed ventless gas fireplace here are some things to consider. In years past the technology only allowed for a vented gas fireplace because of the massive amounts of carbon monoxide generated as a by-product of burning. Today the technology has been improved so there is more efficient burning of the gas, producing very minimal carbon monoxide. It's all in the burners that are used. And while they burn more efficiently they just don't look quite as good as the vented gas fireplace. This is because with the vented fireplace the burners could be covered with silica sand making it look like the whole area around the logs was burning, giving a much more realistic fire. Because these high efficiency burners can't be covered with anything, you won't get the burning embers effect. If this isn't a big deal for you, than this option may be a very attractive way to go.
In addition, other safety features have been added such as oxygen depletion sensors (ODS). These sensors monitor the amount of oxygen in the air around the floor. If carbon monoxide builds up, these sensors are activated and the gas is shut off. This would happen long before you would start to feel any effects from the carbon monoxide.
There is something else that you should be aware of with the ventless gas fireplace. That is moisture. When you burn natural gas, water is produced as a by-product. This moisture can become trapped in your home especially in the winter. Sometimes this moisture will condense on cold surfaces. If this happens where it can't be easily seen, damage can occur. On the other hand, if you have radiant heat you may want or need the added moisture.
If you don't want the ventless gas fireplace, there are other alternatives. The gel fuel fireplace is a great option. It is portable, easy to install and burns gel fuel in cans placed behind the logs. Just light and you're ready to go. The fire is real and can be made larger or smaller depending on how many cans of fuel you burn at one time. But this is not an alternative heating source. It really is only a decorative fireplace.
The electric fireplace is another option to consider. It is easy to install and is maintenance free. The technology has improved to where they can be operated in different modes - flame only, heat only or both flame and heat. Add a remote control and you're ready for any occasion. Most come equipped with a fan or blower that will help heat a small room. With these you only get a simulated flame and no crackling fire. But still this is a good option for apartments and offices.
With a little thought and planning, you can find a ventless fireplace option that will meet your specific needs and situation. Whatever the choice, ventless fireplaces will give you years of pleasure and provide a spectacular gathering place for family and friends.
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