You have a choice to install a vented gas fireplace or a heater that does not require a vent. There is some effort in installing a vented gas fireplace; there is no question there. But is it worth going to that trouble over have the traditional heater? I think the issue here is not so much the extra work, but the issue of carbon monoxide poisoning and the risks you take with the traditional gas heater.

A vented gas fireplace will definitely be the better choice even with the extra work involved. One of the advantages is that it can burn as a much lower temperature. They are designed to imitate a real fireplace, with soft yellow flames, much like a real wood fireplace.

The ventless heater is supposed to be able to dispose of carbon monoxide by burning at a higher temp. The flames are blue and don’t look like a real fire. This is one of the main reasons the vented gas fireplace is the most popular choice.

Not only is the choice of having it look like a real fire, but also another reason it is chosen first is because it is safer. They are safer because they do have a vent. A ventless gas heater is meant to burn off the carbon monoxide by burning it at a higher temperature.

There is also a sensor that is supposed to detect the amount of carbon monoxide in the room and therefore shutting off when it gets to a level that is too high. A ventless heater is a mechanical device, and because of that, we know there are so many things that can go wrong.

What if the sensor fails? Then the buildup can build up and accumulate too fast, or the carbon monoxide may not diffuse properly, where does this leave you? The risks are there!

Do you want to take that chance when you know the vented gas fireplace vents every bit of carbon monoxide outside, away from the home?

It may be a bit more work to install, but for the comfort and peace of mind, I think the decision is obvious, go with the vented gas fireplace and enjoy!