A fireplace is quite the regal looking addition to any room. It gives off many good vibes and can accentuate any decor if chosen appropriately. However, not all of us can bear to get a real one installed in their houses, for budget reasons, space constraints, as well as fire safety concerns.
A free standing ventless gas fireplace, is a cost-effective yet convenient alternative to traditional fireplaces. It doesn’t require any wood fuel, doesn’t have a chimney, and is easy to install.
These products run on propane or natural gas. They usually come with a supply line connected to free you from refueling worries. In the markets, you may find gel-fueled models, which do not need the supply of natural gas and are pretty much free from smoke and ash. It may require professional installation because of the supply line, but you can assemble the latter without much trouble.
Also, many free-standing ventless gas fireplaces have an automatic ignition. But the gel fueled models may need a match to light them up.
Do keep in mind that any free-standing ventless gas fireplace will require thorough cleaning at least once a year. If you are going with the gas-supply model, you may also want to install a carbon monoxide meter in the room to keep an eye on any fluctuating levels of the gas in the room’s air, which may indicate that the product has run its course and must be replaced or repaired.
While choosing a size, keep the area to be heated in mind, as the heat output of any model will directly be affected by the space it’s expected to warm up. The designs vary, with models that have linear and curved structures, pebble finish, and which look like a hearth, or a fuel stove. The cast iron models can be compact as well as large, and you can pick as per your room’s specifications.
The Comfort Glow Monterey vent-free gas stove offers a massive 30,000 BTUs per hour. The large open-face design offers maximum flame enjoyment from the large charred log set and dual yellow flame burner. Heating up to 1,250 sq. feet, this stove is an attractive and economical way to heat almost any room in the house. The dual-fuel design of the Monterey permits the unit to be installed almost anywhere a gas line is accessible. Check state and local codes for installation restrictions and requirements before purchase.
The heat output of this state-of-the-art vent-free technology is up to 30,000 BTUs. It does not require a flue or chimney. The stove functions with the option of Natural or LP Gas. Vent-free stoves are the ideal choice for bringing style and warmth to your home.
The state-of-the-art vent-free technology in this fireplace provides up to 30,000 BTUs of heat and requires no flue or chimney. This zero clearance model is easy to install almost anywhere. Please check your local codes regarding vent-free products before installation.
The Bluegrass Living vent-free natural gas fireplaces are an excellent alternative to traditional wood fireplaces. Designed as a zero-clearance firebox, this insert is suitable for custom, built-in installations. It features an arched design with a ceramic brick liner and hand-painted logs, while realistic logs and burner technology provide the look and feel of a real fire. These economical, efficient fireplace systems provide supplemental heat without skimping on style or ambiance. Perfect for your family’s living room, kitchen, or den, these fireplace systems bring warmth and a decorative accent to any home!
The Ventless Gas Stove has patented NextGen Dual Fuel technology, is supported by a solid, black-finished steel frame, and produces real flames and up to 23,000 BTUs of warmth to heat up to 850 square feet. The Ventless design is 99.9% efficient and does not require a vent pipe making installation simpler.
The ProCom ventless dual fuel arched fireplace includes a stylish mantel with distress marks, burnished edges, a multi-step furniture grade finish in a rich walnut color, and the only gas insert on our site that is approved for operation in your bedroom. Capable of producing 10,000 BTU of efficient heat, this fireplace features four ceramic fiber logs that are painted to mimic real wood, beautiful yellow flames, and a walnut mantel available in a straight or corner style that is sure to match your home dcor whether it be modern or rustic. Enjoying the light and heat of a fireplace is easy with the push of a button on the included thermostat.
The ProCom Ventless Fireplace offers realistic fiber ceramic logs for a stunning experience. The product is made with a Furniture Grade Quality Mantel, and can be used with a Full-Size Duluth Forge Dual Fuel Ventless Gas Fireplace Insert to produce up to 32,000 BTU of heat. The rich walnut finish complements any home decor.
The ProCom Ventless Fireplace features a gas fireplace insert that is designed to produce up to 32,000 BTUs of heat, enough to heat 1,500 square feet of living space. The fireplace provides a beautiful and realistic flame pattern with realistic fiber ceramic logs for a stunning home experience. This vent-free fireplace system includes many features like a T-Stat control, Oxygen Depletion Sensor with automatic shut-off, battery assisted piezo ignition, and much more. The fireplace mantel has been carefully created in slate gray furniture grade finish that accents the quality and excellence of this product.
The ProCom Ventless Dual Fuel fireplace system, generating up to 15,000 BTUs, is a beautiful addition to your bedroom and home. This gas log set includes four ceramic fiber logs painted with yellow flames and illuminated by LED lights. The set also includes an Avery mantel with beveled Pallisters, rounded trim molding, a beautiful apple spice finish, and our only gas fireplace insert approved for use in your bedroom.
The Bluegrass Living vent-free gas stove features a large viewing area allowing maximum viewing pleasure and a realistic fire-viewing experience. The thermostatic LCD programmable remote control allows you to control the heat for maximum comfort and efficiency. The built-in thermostat control will cycle the stove heater on and off to maintain your desired room temperature.
Danielle Colding notes that even though some might feel that a free standing ventless gas fireplace doesn't replace a traditional fuel-vented fireplace, they are actually very easy to install in most homes. You'll find a lot of black heavy-duty steel or metal box styles of free standing ventless gas fireplaces with specialized heat-protectant glass or mesh fronts that showcase the interior flames. There are also ones available with wood frames that showcase arched moldings with metal inserts that have ceramic or concrete brick liners. The logs are often made out of ceramic fiber and handpainted to look like authentic firewood. There will also likely be burner technology fuelled by gas that works the flames and interior heating.
Design expert, David Netto notes that depending on the overall build, materials, and ventilation method, a free standing ventless gas fireplace is able to add sufficient heat to living spaces of all sizes. One thing that's vital to remember is that there is no actual ventilation system on a free standing ventless gas fireplace as they burn clearly on specialized burners so they don't need a chimney flute. Even though there is no ventilation, they're still usually connected to a gas or propane line that is connected to a control panel that allows you to mediate the flames and pilot light. Free standing ventless gas fireplaces can be designed in traditional or more contemporary fashion with wood or steel frames, but they usually come equipped with artificial noncombustible logs that allow the flames to pass through them to emit heat.
According to Katie Ridder, free standing ventless gas fireplaces make an eco-friendly heating option for contemporary homes as they're more sustainably designed than wood-burning fireplaces. You can find a number of different styles whether you're looking for something more traditional looking like a black heavy-duty steel model that sits on four turned legs. Another economical and classic option is those with a wood frame with intricate carvings and even a mantlepiece to set home goods on. There are also sleeker options available such as a compact all-white or grey wall-mounted style that leaves room for other necessary furniture. For an extremely cozy feel, you might even find some elongated horizontally designed styles that feature glass side panels that allow you to see all of the hypnotizing flames.
Neal Beckstedt suggests opting for a free standing ventless gas fireplace if you're looking for a heating option that's very low maintenance with lots of extras. For example, always check out the stats on how much heat coverage it emits, but free standing ventless gas fireplaces usually come with an adjustable thermostat to control the heat or even a remote control. There's often an electronic ignition for starting and stopping the heat flow as well as optional blowers to help circulate the air. For added safety purposes, you may find an automatic shut-off as well as oxygen depletion sensors that turn off the unit when low oxygen levels are detected. There could be interior or even exterior LED lighting to add even more glow and ambience.
Homeowners have reported these practical benefits of a gas fireplace:
Save $ - Active users say you can run a gas fireplace for just $60 annually!
Easy availability of gas fuel - Today, over 66 million US homes have an uninterrupted natural gas supply
Pan-USA gas fuel network - No matter where you live, availing cheap and uninterrupted gas supply is not an issue
Consistent heating without fluctuations as in the case of real logwood fire
No manual effort needed to stoke or kindle the logwood fire
You control the fire with various features such as a thermostat, remote control, and many others
Great aesthetics - if you choose a fireplace appropriately matching your décor, it becomes the focal feature of your living room. Advanced models enrich the visual effects with features such as LED lights, dancing fire-flares, and attractive lighting effects.
Incredibly real-looking fireplace, full of old-world charm but minus its labor and toil
Gas fireplaces hardly require maintenance or have any recurring cost
It's official: you get great value for money, great aesthetics, and consistent heating from these fireplaces. Seven million homeowners can't be wrong!
Direct vent (vented) gas fireplaces
These modern fireplaces use direct-vent logs for burning. Although synthetic, they burn like real wooden logs and produce smoke (carbon monoxide), which has to be managed in two ways:
It has to be removed from the fireplace compartment. For this, a coaxial (2-layer) exhaust pipe is fitted at the rear of the fireplace body. Its other end is connected to a vent. The coaxial pipe works this way - its outer layer lets in fresh air to enable combustion, while the inner layer throws out the exhaust air in the atmosphere.
Prevent the exhaust air from spreading in the room. For this, manufacturers provide a high-temperature front glass panel that needs to be kept closed or only slightly open while the logs are burning.
The direct-vent logs burn much like the natural logwood. And the contemporary designs manage the exhaust process quite efficiently. Hence, if you want an ambiance of an authentic, almost-real fireplace, choose this type. On the flip side, they produce less heat than the ventless models since the smoke produced during the combustion process "eats up" some heat.
You would want this model if:
You have toddlers and/or pets. The front glass panel will prevent their direct contact with the fire compartment.
You are remodeling your home. With the coaxial pipe vent, you can prevent extensive masonry that can damage the house's structure. This is of particular importance for apartments with common walls.
You want a higher-level installation. It gives the fireplace a classier look.
Endearing designs and fire effects that create an ethereal ambiance that is not only warm but heart-warming too.
Plus, of course, fuel-efficiency. Contemporary designs are smart energy-savers.
Ventless (vent-free) gas fireplaces
They use fire-logs that don't produce carbon monoxide during combustion. They also produce more heat than the direct-vent models, and hence they are more energy-efficient. Because vent-free models don't have the front-sealing glass panel, they transfer 99.99% of the heat produced into the room.
However, these fire-logs do produce carbon dioxide and moisture (water vapor) as byproducts. Hence, you cannot use a vent-free fireplace for very long, or you will begin to feel humid and stuffy. Also, indoor moisture can breed mold, mildew, and other bacteria. You will have to keep a window open to let out the byproducts. This will also cause some heat-loss.
Ventless gas fireplaces are popular because:
They are affordable. Compared with direct-vent models (upward of $2,000), they are over 50% cheaper ($600-1,000).
They provide clean heating, without releasing any micro-particles of dust, soot, or ash in the room air.
They are more energy-efficient than the direct-vent models
Modern designs are every bit an art-piece! No less alluring than their direct-vent cousins.
These are versatile designs that will adapt to many types of decors. Traditional solid wood or avant-garde light furniture, abundant indoor greenery or more of wall-art, soft, concealed lighting or luminous chandeliers, there is a bespoke ventless gas fireplace design for all decors.
Please note:
Ventless gas fireplaces are not legal in California and Massachusetts
They cannot be used at altitudes above 4,500 feet because the oxygen-deficient thin air will be unable to burn the logs.
Due to the moisture factor, these models are not advisable for persons with asthma, cough and cold, and respiratory disorders. On the other hand, they double up as humidifiers, which is great for indoor plant-life.
Freestanding fireplaces
These are not part of a wall, but independent fireplaces placed along a wall, much like a cabinet. Not having a venting system, they offer all the benefits of a vent-free fireplace in a smaller version. The decorative elements include:
Freestanding fireplaces will be your natural choice if:
Freestanding gas stoves
They are the design variation of the freestanding fireplaces with these features:
Available in many retro and modern designs, hence they can match and enhance diverse interior spaces
With care, you can also transfer them from one room to another
Depending upon the room size, they can function as a primary or secondary heating source
Some models have dual power input options - electric and battery, hence you can temporarily transport them even to your patio or porch
Weighing around 70-90 lbs, they can be lifted and moved by two persons
Heating capacity equivalent to that of a fireplace - around 1,100 - 1,200 square feet at about 30,000 British Thermal Unit (BTU). It is a universal unit of heat defined as the amount of heat that can increase the temperature of one pound of water by 1 degree Fahrenheit.
Freestanding gas stoves are good for you if:
You need a modular fireplace to heat different areas at different times
You live in cold climates where you need a secondary heating source in extreme weather
You want an outdoor heating source for those chilly evenings in your patio or garden
Styling is a vital selection criterion for gas fireplaces. Over 60% homeowners choose a fireplace for its emotional and aesthetic warmth as much as for its ambient warmth. Search for these particular trending styles:
Rustic
The very term evokes a faded, royal, but roughened and weather-bitten imagery. Asymmetry and intentional chaos are its design principles. Look for these characteristics in rustic gas fireplace designs:
Ancestral photo-frames, sports trophies, solid wood sitting, bare wooden stools, weather-bitten carpet, and full-length curtains of heavily embroidered fabric - such a setting will be ideal for the rustic fireplace. The idea is to go backward in time and blend the past with the present.
Classic/traditional
They invoke nostalgia and glory of the wood-log fireplaces and transport their timeless charm into modern homes. They are characterized by these visual elements:
Classic/traditional gas fireplaces capture the retro mood and its rugged, sturdy outlook. Do you have a living area with wood-textured vinyl flooring or a ceiling with wooden beams? A wood-dominated décor will happily accommodate this style.
Modern
On the other hand, this fireplace will be characterized by:
Overall, the modern fireplace is of a single tone with subtle variations, if any. You will do well to complement it with contemporary low-height furniture and minimalistic décor. Add a deep-cushion but mellow-tone carpet to accentuate the floor. That's it.
Modern teakwood cabinets
They are not standalone fireplaces but a multi-purpose cabinet that offers storage, TV-top, and display of artifacts along with a center fireplace. Complete with shelves and drawers, you will instantly like this style for its smart space-management, especially if you own a compact home.
This style will fulfill multiple needs of singles, live-in couples, and nuclear families. The sharp angles, wood-batten profiles, and the French polish teakwood finish will match many types of decors.
A super freestanding ventless fireplace featuring a mushroom-like metal enclosure. It has a wide flat black foot but a short stem and a cap-like firebox (with a semi-oval glazed panel) are white. It's gas-fueled and equipped with faux logs.
An aesthetic freestanding fireplace with modern styling. Its base, recessed gas bottle compartment and firebox are octagonal. A ventless remote-controlled firebox is equipped with a glazed door, faux logs, flame effects, a regulated heater.
This free standing ventless gas fireplace constitutes a classic decor proposition to add your living room a charming, warm character. Ideal proposition for a loft or urban interior.
Antique design for a traditional-looking free standing ventless electrical fireplace with a heater underneath. The fireplace itself is made out of white-painted wood with decorative carvings over its frame.
An aesthetic contemporary freestanding fireplace. A tall cuboidal metal enclosure has a grey front panel and white walls. A chimney is dark grey. An efficient ventless gas fueled firebox has a glazed door and contains faux logs.
Resembling the 19th century, classic English fireplaces, this iron construction is actually a ventess gas contemporary interpretation. A smooth transition between the traditional design and modern mechanisms.
This freestanding ventless gas fireplace catches the attention with its refined, classic design, resembling traditional stoves. A proposition, which shall warm up any decor.
Old-fashioned design for an antique, Napoleon-style Arlington fireplace powered by natural gas, which alleviates the need for a vent. The fireplace is made out of wrought iron with a black color, giving it a traditional vibe.
This Stove Oyster model is a freestanding ventless gas fireplace, which enchants with its gentle, shabby chic finish. Apart from it, its efficient construction can heat up to 1,200 sq. ft.
If you’re looking for a vintage vibe in your living room that will keep you warm during the cold winter nights, take a look at this elegant gas-powered vent-less fireplace, made out of solid wood with a white coat of paint.
A free-standing, vent-less gas fireplace made out of black-painted stainless steel with electronic control system on the bottom and a glassed door with vintage, decorative pattern of the glass pieces, providing a nice finish.
Old-fashioned appearance for a traditional, ventless gas fireplace made out of vibrant cherry wood with a dark tint. The fireplace is carved in a decorative fashion with ornate engravings and symbols all over the body.
An interesting antique style freestanding ventless fireplace. It's made of metal with embossed ornaments and finished in dark brown shades. It has 4 curved legs, a glazed door with a large handle, a moulding top.
Providing charm and coziness, as well as the contemporary chic to the space, this ventless gas fireplace will help you warm up your living room decor. It distinguishes itself with a programmable remote ValorStat Plus system - cruise control for your fireplace.
A pretty efficient freestanding gas-fueled ventless fireplace featuring an enclosure finished in colours typical for red-hot iron. It has a rectangular moulding top and 4 curved angle legs. It's equipped with a glazed arched door with a meshy screen.
An aesthetic freestanding gas-fueled ventless fireplace with an enclosure finished in browns with reddish undertones. It has a moulding top, ornate posts, a protruding base. A black metal firebox has a glazed door with a screen of vertical rods.
A modern approach to a free-standing gas-powered fireplace made out of stainless steel with a black coat of metallic paint and a fireproof screen on the front, fitted with decoratively carved legs to finish the piece off.
Creative idea for a DIY, self-made fireplace spot in a spacious living room, made with the use of an old-fashioned stove fireplace with wooden frames placed around it, decorated with a couple of vintage decorations.
Providing a bit of the contemporary chic to your living room, this modern-looking freestanding fireplace will add charm and warmth to the space, enhancing any meetings or gatherings.
Industrial style for a free-standing fireplace powered by gas with a built-in tiny vent on the top. The fireplace is made out of steel with a black coat of matte paint and it has a top made out of slate stone.
A cool efficient freestanding gas-fueled fireplace. Its hexagonal frame is of dark finished metal with strips in golden shades. A base has a compartment for a gas bottle. A firebox, equipped with faux logs, has 3 glazed walls with meshy screens.
Antique look for an old-fashioned, free-standing fireplace operated with gas, alleviating the need for a vent. The fireplace is made out of wrought iron with a bronze coat of paint, giving it an old-fashioned vibe.
A free-standing fireplace made out of solid wood with a white coat of paint and decorative engravings to give it an old-fashioned style. The fireplace inside is powered by electricity, alleviating the need of a vent.
A contemporary take on an unusual standing fireplace made out of solid wood with a black coat of paint. The fireplace is fitted with a fireproof glass on the front and back and has an additional screen on the front.
A free-standing electric fireplace with a vent-less structure, which makes it mobile and easy to install. The fireplace is made out of oak wood with a dark tint and a fine finish and is fitted with engravings along its frame.
Contemporary take on a futuristic, free-standing ventless fireplace made out of stainless steel with glass elements and a glossy stand. The fireplace is powered by special gel, which makes it safe and cost-efficient.
An attractive stylish standing ventless corner fireplace fueled with gas. Its grey coated metal body features an arched glazed front panel adorned by a metal fence at the bottom and a fluted top part. It has 4 curved angle legs and a black chimney.
A cool freestanding gas-fueled ventless fireplace featuring an enclosure finished in a light blue shade. It has a rectangularish moulding top and 4 curved angle legs. It's equipped with 2 glazed arched doors with big handles.
Featuring a dual-fuel technology (LP or NG) and electronic spark ignition with an overheat safety switch, this fuel ventless gas fireplace constitutes a perfect proposition for a contemporary living room.
Standing against a brick wall, this free standing ventless gas fireplace presents even more fabulous, gaining a more contemporary and refined appeal. Of course, it also warms up every interior.
A small, free-standing fireplace operated by gas with a frame made out of solid wood with a black coat of paint and metal elements. The fireplace has a handy screen on the front which prevents embers from falling out.
Contemporary setup for a stylish living room with a unique, modern fireplace powered by gas. The fireplace is made in a square shape out of granite with a glass panel in front of it, nicely matching the glass coffee table.
The free-standing gas-powered fireplace provides this living room with a unique vibe and a cozy corner to relax near. The fireplace itself is made out of stainless steel with a galvanized finish, giving it a modern look.
Contemporary composition of furniture in a spacious living room, furnished with a free-standing gas fireplace and an elegant couch upholstered with a beige colored cotton fabric and decorated with a few throw pillows.
This free standing ventless gas fireplace constitutes a perfect way to add your living room some traditional charm and warmth. Its small surface will be a good solution for smaller interiors.
Covered with a solid, dark-stained wood, this freestanding ventless gas fireplace embodies class and style. Its densely grained wood will fit well into traditional or rustic interiors.
An efficient compact freestanding propane fueled fireplace. Its black metal casing has a rectangular top and an open base with low angle legs. It has a glazed door adorned with simple grooves. Artificial logs and flame effects are very realistic.
An industrial take on a minimalistic and small compact free standing ventless gas fireplace, made out of stainless steel with a silver coat of metallic paint, with a front fitted with a wire mesh to protect the room from embers.
Simple yet good-looking style for a low-profile, small gas-operated fireplace with a front fitted with a metal fence. The fireplace is made out of wrought iron and has an additional stand made out of wood with a padded top.
This free standing ventless gas fireplace will add a bit the of contemporary refinement to any living room space. Sleek, minimalistic appeal shall fit well into modern lofts or studios.
Vintage look for an old-fashioned, free-standing fireplace made out of wrought iron with a white coat of paint, the fireplace inside is powered by gas, which alleviates the need for a vent and makes it cost-efficient.
An aesthetic contemporary standing fireplace. A hexagonal black enclosure and a long chimney are of metal. A curved glazed front features golden horizontal stripes. A ventless firebox contains faux logs. Floor is cladded with black and grey tiles.
Industrial design for a unique and interesting fireplace made out of a smooth and slick stainless steel with a galvanized finish. The fireplace has a handy compartment on the side, perfect for storing firewood.
An old-fashioned, wood burning fireplace made out of stained ceramic with a crack-like pattern on the white frame. The fireplace is firmly placed in a stand made out of wrought iron, making it stable and safe.
Offering a built-in blower, an extra large heat exchanger, easily accessible controls and a solid body construction, this charming Napoleon gas Fireplace is designed to add a long-lasting value to your home!
Embodying the best features of the classic design, this freestanding ventless gas fireplace will be a charing, elegant addition to any living room, enhancing the space with its warmth.
A cool contemporary freestanding ventless fireplace fueled by gas. Its hexagonal body with a recessed base is finished in black but a silvery frame of glazed front and side panels. It's equipped a.o. with a chimney, faux logs, flame effects.
A pretty rustic style standing ventless gas fireplace. A tall rectangular cast iron frame is brown. It has a moulding top, ledges, fluted posts. It's equipped with a regulated heater, electric ignition, a night light, ceramic logs, a glazed front.
An elegant traditional standing ventless gas-fueled fireplace. Its rather squat rectangular body is finished in mid brown. It has a moulding top, a prominent base, ornate rounded posts. A black metal firebox has a glazed panel and a safety rail.
If you’re looking for a perfect addition to a cozy living room, take a look at this large, free-standing fireplace made in a modern fashion with a stone top surface and a frame made out of stainless steel in a black color.
