Northern tool vent free gas fireplaces

Unlike b-vent models that must vent vertically, you have more freedom with direct vent models. As stated, direct vent models can vent at a vertical or horizontal angle. Some manufacturers also offer a pressurized vent system. These systems allow the pipe to be vented downward for short runs. This is perfect for fireplaces centered above a basement. You can direct the vent down to the basement. From there, you can route the vents horizontally along the basement ceiling and out an exterior wall.

The best part about it is that it doesn't disrupt the floor plan above. The option of horizontal venting also means you can save a lot of floor space. You can run the vent pipes against an outside wall or build them into a bumped-out enclosure. The termination, or end of the venting pipe, does need some clearance from surrounding structures to allow for proper venting. But, the versatility of both rigid and flexible direct vent systems means you can find a solution for virtually any scenario.

To read more about fireplace venting systems, check out our article on how to choose the right fireplace venting. The smaller models work well for warmer climates or small rooms such as bathrooms, where too many BTUs would create stifling heat.

For more about low heat options, you can read our guide on low-BTU fireplaces. The BTU rating lists the heat output. But, the efficiency rating tells you how well the fireplace converts fuel into heat. After all, you don't want to waste money on lots of fuel for only a small amount of usable heat. However, not all efficiency ratings are equal , so here's a quick guide to the common ratings you might see:. It measures how well your fireplace converts fuel into heat.

For example, consider a vented propane fireplace that is given 10, BTUs of fuel. During the burn, some of those BTUs are lost up the chimney, so you may end up with only 8, BTUs converted to useful heat. Now, just because the fuel produces 8, BTUs of heat doesn't mean that your room will receive all 8, BTUs of heat. That's where thermal efficiency ratings come in.

In the case of our example, we'll take this figure of 8, to measure how much of that heat actually makes it into the room. After all, some of the heat is absorbed by the chassis of the fireplace or lost before it gets to the room. It's easy to see how these ratings get confusing. So, it's important to know which is which and keep them straight when comparing fireplaces.

Good news! Direct vent fireplaces come in a huge array of style and size options, so you can pick the right look for your home. If you're looking for the appearance of a wood-burning fire, you'll be drawn to traditional styles such as the Superior DRT series.

These units feature a square or slightly rectangular opening with a ceramic fiber or refractory cement log set and glowing embers. The construction of these units simulate the look of a real fire. They usually range in size from 32 inches to 60 inches.

They also have various accessories like door overlays, decorative fronts, and remote controls. Most of their interior liners mimic the look of brick or stone, although a few models offer a reflective porcelain liner. These models feature a low, wide viewing area, characterized by a "ribbon" burner with a shallow row of flames. The smallest linear units are usually around 36 inches wide. But, some manufacturers offer custom models that are inches wide and more.

The striking designs lend themselves to contemporary or modern decor. These models tend to favor the use of fire glass, ceramic stones, fire art metal matrices, coils, cannonballs, etc. Some models do offer log sets but as an accent. The liners themselves are generally reflective and give off a modern vibe. You can find options with fluted or corrugated metal. Specialty models offer a compromise between the modern and traditional aesthetic.

Models like the Napoleon GD19 and the Empire Loft are very popular for small houses or condos with limited floor space. The Napoleon GD19 is a narrow width fireplace. Its design allows it to be elevated in the wall in smaller rooms.

The Empire Loft has a modern style with the shape of a traditional model. This makes it more suitable for installation in a smaller space. Direct vent fireplaces offer two different ignition systems.

These include the millivolt ignition and intermittent pilot ignition. By far the most common, this ignition consists of a standing pilot light and a gas valve. Very basic models may only offer manual control at the fireplace. But, the vast majority include a switch block as part of the valve. The standing pilot generates electricity for the fireplace valve. This means outside power or batteries are not required for operation.

So, these are excellent choices for people who live in remote areas. This fuel-saving ignition system uses a spark ignitor, an electronic valve, and a control module.

The control module sends an electrical signal to the spark ignitor only when the unit is turned on, sparking and lighting the pilot. When the system is turned off, the burner and the pilot assembly shut down. This saves gas by not keeping a pilot light burning at all times. Many of these models come with the remote control included. These systems require power to operate the electronics.

So, we recommend supplying a volt power supply when framing in this unit for installation. Most systems offer a battery backup as well. But, it's always better to supply line power rather than rely on batteries for normal operation. Ideally, you would use the battery system only during power outages. The newest trend in direct vent fireplaces lets you control your fireplace from your smartphone.

You can do this via Bluetooth connectivity. An app, developed by a 3rd party, controls a module in the fireplace. The app allows you to turn the unit on and off, raise and lower flame height, and control circulating fans.

You can even control interior lighting or program these features on a set schedule. If your direct vent fireplace does not come with Bluetooth capabilities, there's no need to worry.

Manufacturers such as Flametec offer the i-flame series of devices as an add-on. These add-ons offer smartphone control on various models millivolt and IPI models. Installing a direct vent gas fireplace can be a tedious task. But, each installation follows specific guidelines.

Always start by framing the opening to the manufacturer-specified framing dimensions and to the required size and design of the enclosure. Northern Tool. Rockler Woodworking and H…. Harbor Freight Tools.

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Customers should expect to clean the unit to prevent dust build-up on important parts. Dust-sensitive areas include intake vents, circulating blowers, and the space within the chassis. If dust becomes caked on the blower, you may experience a vibrating or clicking sound.

It also causes the appliance to operate poorly and fail prematurely. High energy demands make electric fireplaces an undesirable primary heating source. Ventless Gas Fireplaces Offering up to 40, BTUs, a vent free gas fireplace is best known for its heating efficiency. Keeping Your Air Quality Safe Ventless gas fireplaces come in two primary variations - push-button and automatic.

Stage 2 As gas travels through the valve, the ODS pulls air from the room through small holes in the side of the pilot tube. Stage 3 If the surrounding space begins to run low on oxygen, the pilot flame will begin to lift away from the thermcouple or thermopile.

Gas: Benefits A ventless propane fireplace or one fueled by natural gas does not use traditional venting methods that allow heat to escape. Because of this, they offer more efficient heating for your home. They maintain higher BTU outputs, keeping the home warmer for frigid nights. They offer the appearance of an authentic flame. They come in several configurations, including wall-mounted, linear, traditional, and double-sided.

They operate as a supplemental source of heat. This makes them ideal for homes with open floor plans and higher ceilings.

In large open spaces, by-products disperse better. They add moisture to the air, reducing stuffiness that may dry out your throat or nasal passages. Gas: Disadvantages Vent free gas fireplaces have extreme installation restrictions and limitations.

This is due to their consumption of oxygen and release of exhaust back into the home. It's important for homeowners to follow manufacturer guidelines precisely. Make sure to research county, state, and municipality restrictions as well. We'll cover more details on specific restrictions in a separate section.

We don't recommend ventless gas fireplaces for people suffering from allergies or asthma. You can't use them as a primary heating source. They produce larger amounts of combustion by-products that circulate in the air. Installation Restrictions for Ventless Gas Fireplaces In this section, we'll cover common installation restrictions for ventless gas fireplaces.

Care and Maintenance Most ventless fireplaces are low maintenance, for the most part. Expected Lifespan Beyond maintenance concerns, other factors contribute to its lifespan as well.

Shipping Information A small to medium-sized vent free fireplace will ship parcel if it's electric or ethanol-fueled. Key Takeaways We hope this article helps you on your journey to buy a new vent free fireplace and spark up the ambiance of your home.

Articles You May Also Like Are Vent Free Fireplaces Dangerous? BY Cortney Owens BY Amanda Hurd Ask a Question. Ken B. There is a wealth of information discussing this topic posted here. Submitted by: Will M. Mildred M. What is the double-sided fireplace at the end of the article? Is it vent-free or electric? Submitted by: Tyler M. Rita W. Yes, ventless appliances are not allowed in the state of California. Submitted by: Aaron D. J Gilbert. Are there any gas, ventless fireplaces that have doors that open while the fireplace is being used?

Ventless fireplaces do not offer glass doors as the fireplace must be completely open-faced to operate properly and doors are not needed to guard against drafts.

Submitted by: Kelsey C. Ken M. Hello, I need a ventless gas fireplace insert. My rough opening is 36 w x 33 and I can go 25 deep. Do you have anything close to those rough in dimensions? The Empire Vail should fit those dimensions. Other options may be found by sorting by size on the left had side 32" then checking framing requirements in unit description.

Submitted by: Jason W. John P. Ventless fireplaces do not have a glass front installed. Doors are not allowed on vent free appliances. Pete R. Since ventless gas fireplaces are Subsequently, there are quite a few higher-tier direct vent gas fireplaces that would provide a substantial amount of heat and outperform any ventless gas fireplace. Ventless is allowed in WI. There is no state law prohibiting it. There are some local requirements usually, regarding the square area of the room it is installed in.

Submitted by: Owen O. Larry K. Vent-free gas fireplaces are not permitted for installation indoors in California. In Chiloquin.

Ventless gas appliances are not designed to be a primary heat source. Glenn A. With certain models, yes.

Lynn J. What is the see thru-unit with the grand piano in the background on this page? Please note that this fireplace is fueled by ethanol and not natural gas or liquid propane. New fireplaces will have a break-in period where oils from manufacturing and paint are cured.

That may be the odor you are smelling. Submitted by: Brian L. Jerry K. Are there any vent-free freestanding natural gas fireplaces or stoves? Terry L. The GCUF36 is a firebox only. You would need to purchase the logs separately. It is compatible with Propane and Natural gas logs. Richard W. Can the gas valve and flexible gas line be within the fire box? Is this safe? Yes, it can, and it usually is. Tom K. What might be the potential limitations be for custom surround in things such as quartz, granite, marble, other stone or ceramic tile?

Any of these materials are acceptable, as they are all noncombustible. The limitations you would be concerned with would pertain to distances to combustibles such as adjacent walls, the ceiling, or a mantel shelf. Bonnie P. Yes, both the Vail and the Buck have blower options. Debbie S. You can, but this is not ideal. Any location where there will be wall-to-wall carpeting will likely produce odors while a ventless gas hearth system is in use. Alice S. This is what allows these appliances to be operable without venting, as this kind of "complete" combustion does not produce any gasses which would require exhausting outside the home.

How much of the heat produced by the gas logs efficiently circulates into your room, however, would be determined by other factors, like whether blowers or other fans are assisting distributing the heat. Submitted by: Cortney O. Is it safe to use a ventless fireplace unit inside a masonry fireplace with the flue closed?

If you are referring to a ventless fireplace insert , this is perfectly acceptable so long as local code does not prohibit ventless systems and the insert you are considering will fit into the opening.

John Z. Yes it can provided the size will fit the unit. Melanie G. Made out of glass reinforced concrete this propane fire pit works on liquid propane. This fire pit is built to last and will stay in great condition year around.

It also includes Add this to your patio furniture to enhance your backyard. It's the perfect accessory to relax around on the cool summer and fall nights. The propane fire table is built with high performance cast concrete making it safe and fun. No outside duct or chimney needed Environmental Protection and Energy Conservation.