Debunking the Vent-Free Gas Fireplace Myth

Expert Contributor

Scott Magness of Scott's Fireplace Products, Newtown Square, PA www.ScottsFireplaceProducts.com

Scott’s Fireplace Products Debunking the Vent-Free Gas Fireplace Myth

by Scott Magness

Vent-free appliances are similar to other space-heating and hearth products, with one exception – they don’t have a vent. There is a large misconception when it comes to vent-free gas, but the truth is there are many valuable benefits to this type of heating.

Today, vent-free gas appliances include heaters, fireplaces, fireplace inserts, stoves, and log sets, and every year manufacturers introduce new designs and styles of vent-free products. Converting your wood-burning fireplace to a vent-free gas log set eliminates the hassle and mess of hauling in wood, disposing of ashes, lighting uncooperative kindling, tending the fire, and guarding against stray embers.

Additionally, installation costs of vent-free products are up to 60 percent less than the cost of installing vented heating appliances, as there is no need to cut through exterior walls or creating an expensive chimney or vent system. Any of the 62 million homes that are supplied with natural or propane gas can inexpensively have a professional install a vent-free heater, fireplace, stove or log set. A certified installer familiar with vent-free products and local building codes can help you choose the right-sized product for your home and install it properly within an hour.

The most common myth about vent-free gas heat is that they are unsafe. First, vent-free appliances feature an automatic safety shut-off device (Oxygen Detection System or ODS). The ODS turns off the gas in case of a malfunction. Second, with 17 million units installed in the U.S. alone since 1980, the Consumer Product Safety Commission has stated that it is not aware of any documented incident in the CPSC In-Depth Investigation (IDI) database of fatal carbon monoxide poisoning associated with an ODS-equipped vent-free gas heating product. Vent-free gas heaters, fireplaces, stoves and log sets meet all of the most relevant indoor air quality standards and guidelines and have an outstanding safety record.

In addition, in 1996 the Vent-Free Gas Products Alliance, members of GAMA, an Association of Appliance and Equipment Manufacturers, commissioned an independent research project to be conducted by the American Gas Association Research Division (AGAR). The researchers concluded that “vent-free gas heating products performed well within nationally recognized guidelines for indoor air quality. This research proves that vent-free gas heating products meet applicable emissions requirements even when used over extended time periods, among sensitive populations, and with units whose maximum heat output exceeds the requirements of the space.” This landmark research has been extensively peer-reviewed and has served as the basis for acceptance of vent-free gas products by national code groups and state regulatory agencies.

Vent-free gas heating has been proven time and again as a safe option, and for many people it is a cost-efficient and hassle-free alternative to other heating options.

Value, at the end of the day, is what bridges the gap between low price desires and the premium products we offer at Scott’s Fireplace Products.

Direct Vent Inserts & Fireplaces, Contemporary & Electric Fireplace, Glass Doors, Grates and Log Rings, Vented & Vent-Free Gas Logs, Gas Stoves & Accessories, Outdoor Living Fire Pits

3137 West Chester Pike Newtown Square, PA

484-422-8334 www.ScottsFireplaceProducts.com