Q&A Buying Gas Insert

  • Active since 1995, Hearth.com is THE place on the internet for free information and advice about wood stoves, pellet stoves and other energy saving equipment.

    We strive to provide opinions, articles, discussions and history related to Hearth Products and in a more general sense, energy issues.

    We promote the EFFICIENT, RESPONSIBLE, CLEAN and SAFE use of all fuels, whether renewable or fossil.
Status
Not open for further replies.

QandA

New Member
Staff member
Nov 27, 2012
0
Question:

hello- I-m in the process of buying a gas fireplace insert. I have been somewhat confused by some of the dealers. Some tell me should go with a direct vent insert which 2-4inch pipes go up my chimney and that this unit has a sealed chamber which doesn't allow gases to come back in my house. Some dealers say that this is new and the conventional fireplace is just as safe. what should i do? thank you in advance- Gilles



Answer:

Gas Fireplace inserts area available in "direct vent" which is the two pipe system you mentioned- and "b-vent" which is a one pipe system. The b vent takes it's combustion air from the home and sends it up the chimney..The direct vent takes combustion air from the outside and exhausts back outside. Both are fine- but a properly installed direct vent may be a bit more efficient. Also- if you live in a very cold climate the direct vent may be better - draft wise.
 
Status
Not open for further replies.