Potential Risks of Ventless Fireplace Installation

What Is a Ventless Fireplace?

Many people want to enjoy the warmth and ambiance that a fireplace offers, but some homes are not built with chimneys. Instead of paying to install a brand new chimney and fireplace, many people simply opt for a ventless fireplace. A ventless fireplace is a freestanding appliance that burns propane, natural gas, or a type of combustible gel to generate flames. Instead of the gas being emitted to the outdoors via a chimney flue, the gas is redirected inside the home. While many view ventless fireplaces as a convenient and affordable alternative to a complete chimney system, these appliances are not without safety hazards. At ChimneyTek, we want you to have all the facts so you can make a sound decision. Of course, you can always call us if you have questions about any kind of fireplace system.

Risk Factors of Ventless Fireplaces

ChimneyTek want to make sure that you are able to enjoy safe warmth, which is why we offer services like chimney repair, chimney rebuilds, chimney sweeping, and masonry repair. However, we also want you to be well-informed about the leading safety hazards of ventless fireplaces. If you are considering buying a ventless fireplace, please consider the following safety risks.

• Compromised Indoor Air Quality – Since ventless fireplaces direct gases into your home, there is an increased concern about indoor air quality. Depending on the type of fuel you are burning, ventless fireplaces can emit nitrogen dioxide, hydrocarbons, and sulfur dioxide into your home. Long-term exposure to these gases can cause respiratory issues. Even short-term inhalation of these gases can cause problems for people with existing allergies or respiratory issues like asthma.
• Mold and Mildew Growth – Normal, ventilated fireplaces release water vapor into the chimney flue so it can be expelled from the home. With ventless fireplaces, the water vapor escapes into the home. The increased water vapor in the air creates a greater potential for mold and mildew growth. Mold can cause serious damage to your home and respiratory issues.
• Fire Risk – Because emissions are released into indoor air, ventless fireplaces may pose a fire hazard inside the home. The emissions that get into your home could trigger a hidden gas leak or a faulty burner. Also, placing furniture too close to the ventless fireplace can pose a fire hazard.
• Carbon Monoxide Leaks – Last but certainly not least, ventless fireplaces have been known to produce carbon monoxide. Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that can cause a variety of symptoms and can be fatal with enough exposure. If you have a ventless fireplace and are experiencing symptoms like dizziness, nausea, or labored breathing, exit the home and call an ambulance immediately.

ChimneyTek Is Here to Help

If you want to avoid these serious safety risks, but still want to increase the comfort and enjoyment of your home, talk to ChimneyTek! We provide our customers with a variety of safe options like prefab chimneys and pellet stove installation and sales. Find out how we can help today!