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 Photo: amazon.com There are several different types of fireplace inserts, but gas models are a favorite because they offer the ambiance of a real fire while being effortless to light. With no soot or ash to deal with, they are also easy to keep clean. Gas fireplace inserts are often fitted as a replacement for existing masonry fireplaces, offering much more efficient and economical heating. They are also a popular installation for new builds and remodels. The gas insert buyer will find plenty of choices, but some of the technical aspects can be daunting. After researching the best gas fireplace inserts currently available, this guide was created to clarify the key features to help you choose the right model for your needs.
Photo: amazon.com What to Consider When Choosing the Best Gas Fireplace InsertsGeneral questions relating to selecting a gas fireplace were explored in a previous article, and you may find that useful. Here, the focus is specifically on selecting a gas fireplace insert. An understanding of the different technologies will be invaluable in making the right choice for your home. Types of Gas Fireplace InsertsGas fireplace inserts can be divided into several types according to how they are vented. They can also be separated by their gas use: either natural gas or propane. The majority of gas fireplace inserts are designed for natural gas, but not every location has availability. The solution is a propane fireplace insert (also called a Liquid Petroleum Gas or LPG fireplace insert). Propane actually burns hotter than natural gas, but it’s more expensive and needs to come in bottles or a bulk tank. Natural gas is piped directly to your home, so it is a cheaper and more convenient option. In fact, the majority of gas fireplace inserts that can use propane are called dual-fuel. They are primarily manufactured to use natural gas but are also compatible with propane or come with a conversion kit if needed at the time of installation. Fireplace Inserts vs. Traditional FireplacesWhile traditional fireplaces have undeniable charm, there are many reasons to upgrade to a fireplace insert. Although they look attractive, open fires are remarkably inefficient and a huge amount of energy is wasted as the heat goes up the chimney instead of into the room. Soot and smoke can cause staining and ash has to be cleaned up regularly. Removing hot ash is a fire hazard. Fireplace inserts provide an enclosed combustion chamber with a heat efficiency rating of between 70 percent and 99 percent. That compares with 5 percent to 10 percent for a traditional fire. This means more of the heat generated warms the room, and bills are reduced. A gas fireplace insert is also very easy to keep clean. Vented vs. Vent-FreeWhile gas insert fireplaces are usually divided into vented or vent-free, there are actually two types of vented models: natural vent (also called B-vent) or direct vent. Natural vent fireplaces use an existing chimney and thus are a convenient replacement for traditional fireplaces. However, the majority of these are open, rather than closed inserts, and are less efficient. A direct vent is more common and can vent horizontally as well as vertically. As a result, they are ideal where there is no existing fireplace. Vented systems must vent to the outside, which can be impractical. A vent-free insert, also known as a ventless gas fireplace insert, solves the problem. They are easier to install and more efficient (because no heat is lost through the vent). However, they do release potentially harmful carbon monoxide into the room. To ensure they are safe, a device called an oxygen depletion sensor (ODS) is fitted. This shuts the fire down if levels become dangerous. Nevertheless, it’s important to check local building codes because some states restrict or ban their use. Heat Efficiency and CoverageHeat efficiency ratings of gas insert fireplaces depend on vent type. Vented models are usually between 70 percent and 85 percent efficient, while vent-free models can be up to 99 percent efficient. In terms of heating performance, the BTU (British Thermal Unit) rating should be checked. This tells you the actual heat output of the fire. Given that the usual recommendation is for 20 BTU per square foot of living space, it is a simple task to work out the coverage of a particular model. However, while this is a good general guide, some models quote lower or higher figures than the average. An air circulation system is also a factor. Some inserts include a blower that helps push heat into the room, spreading warmth more rapidly. On other models, it may not be standard, but provision is made for one to be fitted. FeaturesA variety of additional features make individual models more user-friendly.
Note: It’s important to check what is and isn’t included in the price. Items like louvers, screen doors, blowers, remote controls, etc., may be an additional cost, so the final price can be quite different from what was initially advertised. Our Top PicksAfter this discussion of the qualities to look for in gas fireplace inserts, it’s time to look at some top picks. Photo: amazon.com Napoleon is a long-established company with a reputation for quality and reliability. Their Grandville VF (vent-free) is a large gas insert capable of producing 30,000 BTU of heat, which is sufficient for 1,500 square feet of space. With no loss of heat through a vent or chimney, energy efficiency is rated at 99 percent or better. Ignition is piezoelectric, so starting and stopping is as simple as flicking a switch. Phazer glowing logs look realistic next to the flames, which are adjustable. To combat the danger posed by carbon monoxide, an oxygen depletion sensor is fitted that automatically cuts the pilot light if safe levels are exceeded. A screen is also included as an additional safety feature. While it isn’t heatproof, it should reduce accidental burns and prevent items from falling into the fire. Product Specs
Pros
Cons
Get the Napoleon Grandville fireplace insert on Amazon and at Appliances Connection. Photo: woodlanddirect.com Empire fireplace inserts are high-quality units with a range of options that make them suitable for a wide variety of installations. They can be fitted at floor level, in existing fireplace openings, or recessed into a wall (with appropriate vertical or horizontal venting). The 20,000 BTU output is sufficient for a 1,000-square-foot area, with remarkably high efficiency for a vented model. It comes with either millivolt pilot (always on) or intermittent pilot (switchable), though the latter costs extra. Remote control and an automatic thermostat are also options at an additional cost. A blower is included to accelerate the spread of heat. Either natural gas or propane can be used. Decoratively, there is a choice of the surround and five different colors of crushed glass. Product Specs
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Get the Empire Loft Series fireplace insert at Woodland Direct. Photo: woodlanddirect.com The Superior DRI2000 can be configured for natural gas or propane. It comes as either a 27-inch or 32-inch model, with respective outputs of 25,000 BTU or 28,000 BTU. The included variable-speed blower spreads warmth rapidly, covering areas of 1,625 square feet and 1,800 square feet, larger than many rivals. Primarily designed to be fitted into an existing fireplace, there are different facade sizes to conceal previous openings. It can be vented horizontally as well as vertically, so new installations are also possible. There is electronic ignition for trouble-free lighting and the option of a remote control, though no thermostat. Product Specs
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Get the Superior fireplace insert at Woodland Direct. Photo: amazon.com The Empire Tahoe gas fireplace insert is another quality model from a company renowned for reliability. The 20,000 BTU output is sufficient for 1,000 square feet of space, and the millivolt ignition gives near instantaneous heat. Efficiency of 83 percent is comparatively high for a direct vent insert. “NG” in the product title indicates this model runs on natural gas. A propane version is also available. At 16 inches deep, the Empire Tahoe is particularly suited to shallow fireplace openings. It can vent from the top or the back. Remote control is an option, but at an extra cost. To maximize safety it is also necessary to buy a screen or door set. Some may find it frustrating that these are not included. Product Specs
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Get the Empire Tahoe fireplace insert on Amazon. Photo: homedepot.com Ashley Hearth Products is another highly regarded manufacturer with a range of electric and gas models. This powerful 34,000 BTU model benefits from being vent-free and as such has an efficiency rating of 99 percent. It’s something of a surprise then that the quoted coverage area is 1,200 square feet, which is less than might be expected. The outstanding feature of this Ashley Hearth model is its flexibility in terms of installation. As standard, it is intended to be used with a surround as a traditional gas fireplace with a mantel. However, with the proper fitting kit, it can be used as an insert. What’s more, there is also a leg set, enabling it to be used as a stand-alone stove. A thermostat can be fitted but is not included. Product Specs
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Get the Ashley Hearth Products fireplace insert at The Home Depot. Photo: woodlanddirect.com The Montigo Illume 30FID is a stylish gas insert that would perhaps best suit contemporary decor, but thanks to vertical or horizontal venting, it can be used to replace an existing open fireplace if required. Output is 24,000 BTU. Efficiency varies slightly: 77.6 percent if natural gas is chosen and 79 percent for propane. That’s lower than vent-free models but competitive for a vented gas insert. The included log set with its hot ember effect is particularly realistic. Adjustable flames can be set by remote control, and LED accent lighting enhances the real fire effect. An integrated door screen is fitted for safety. A blower is available, but it costs extra. Product Specs
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Get the Montigo Illume fireplace insert at Woodland Direct. Our VerdictThe Napoleon Grandville fireplace insert is powerful, easy to install, and competitively priced, though trim and louvers raise the cost. Unfortunately, that’s typical of most gas fireplace inserts and the advertised price is seldom what you actually pay. For dual-fuel capability, we recommend the versatile Superior DRI2000 Gas Fireplace Insert. How We Chose the Best Gas Fireplace InsertsPersonal taste is a major factor when choosing things like gas fireplace inserts, but we have tried to remain objective and include a broad range of styles. We researched products from as many different brands as we were able to find, from major retailers to less well-known suppliers. We have been careful to avoid focusing only on the leading brands and to include a varied model lineup. We looked at heating performance, flue type (which impacts ease of installation), and a variety of user-friendly features. The result is a balanced selection for different-size spaces and budgets. The Advantages of Owning the Best Gas Fireplace InsertsReal wood fires will always have a certain appeal. Electric models are the ultimate in ease of use, but the lack of real flame means they are not to everyone’s taste. For many people, a gas fireplace insert is the perfect compromise.
FAQsThe information provided up to this point provides a good understanding of the technical aspects involved in choosing a gas fireplace insert. It also showcases some of the best models currently available. However, a number of questions crop up regularly. Read on for answers to these and other common inquiries about gas fireplace inserts. Q: Does my gas fireplace need to be powered by electricity?Some need a standard household electricity supply for the pilot light, though they may also have a battery backup in case of a power outage. Gas fires fitted with a millivolt system or piezo only need a battery. If a blower is fitted, it will need electricity, though the fireplace can usually be used without it. Q: Can I install a blower or fan kit on my gas fireplace?Many gas fireplaces make provision for a blower to distribute heat more effectively, but it’s important to check specifications. Q: Do fumes from gas fireplace inserts hold any toxicity levels?Yes. Carbon monoxide (CO) is a potentially lethal gas that is a byproduct of burning fossil fuels. These are usually vented harmlessly outdoors. Vent-free gas inserts should have sensors fitted that automatically turn off the gas if fumes reach harmful levels. All gas fireplace inserts should be inspected annually by a qualified professional. They are very safe, and accidents are very rare, but an electric fireplace is an alternative for those who find this a concern. Q: How deep are gas fireplace inserts?They vary considerably. While researching products for this guide, the smallest we found was 9 inches, whereas the deepest was almost 27 inches. Can you put a blower on a ventless fireplace?The answer is, yes — there are many gas fireplace models that have louvers (grilles) on the front where a blower kit can be easily installed. Blower kits are accessories that can enhance both the efficiency and the coziness of your vent-free fireplace.
Is a ventless gas fireplace worth it?Ventless fireplaces are more energy efficient than vented fireplaces because no heat escapes up the flue, so you'll save money on gas utility bills. A vented gas fireplace uses more gas to create the same level of warmth because some of its heat escapes through the flue.
Are there ventless gas fireplace inserts?With professional installation and any remodeling that needs to be done, direct vent gas inserts will cost you around $3,500 – $8,000. Vent free gas inserts, on the other hand, will cost between $1,000 and $5,000.
How much does a ventless gas fireplace insert cost?Price of Gas Fireplace Installation by Vent Type
A ventless fireplace costs between $800 and $2,600.
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Ventless gas fireplace insert with blower and remote
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