What Are Direct Vent Fireplaces?
It’s a dream for many people of keeping their home all warm and toasty on cold winter days and nights using a direct vent fireplace. And nothing is more comforting than a roaring fire with the subtle hint of wood smoke in the air. Open flame fireplaces can add a touch of rustic charm to almost any room not to mention all the heat a direct vent fireplace can produce!
If you have ever wondered if you could experience the joys and beauty of open flames yet you don’t want the expense of installing a standard fireplace then you need to read this article on vent fireplaces.
Why Direct Vent Fireplaces?
Lots of homeowners want to enjoy the benefits of a fireplace but due to size constrictions, limited budgets or other problems, they simply are unable to build a traditional wood burning unit with wood burning fireplace inserts. This is where a direct vent installation can save the day for them.
A direct vented unit can be a direct vent gas fireplace or it can burn wood and pellets. A direct vent doesn’t have to use a flue or chimney. It uses a simple duct or vent to expel exhaust gases from the unit through a wall into the outside air.
What to Look for in a Direct Vent Fireplace
1 Zero Clearance Tech.
The biggest advantage to buying this fireplace is that all units use a form of zero clearance technology. These devices are made from fire proof metals at the factory and are designed so that they can safely be installed against combustible materials like the wooden frame of your house.
2 Fits Any Room Layout.
And without the need for a chimney or flue, almost any model of fireplace can be installed anywhere you have an empty space along a wall or nook. Certain models of fireplaces can be recessed inside a wall or in a bump out. No matter what size room you have or its floor plan, there is probably a fireplace model that will fit.
3 Can Be Retrofitted To Old Fireplaces.
Say you have old brick fireplaces but you haven’t used it in years. With a fireplace insert, you can easily put to good use that old masonry fireplace or factory-built firebox. A quality direct vent insert can be fitted to slip into place quickly, allowing you to use that old firebox without worrying about fixing or remodeling the chimney or flue.
4 Easier To Use And Operate.
A modern vented fireplace be it wood or gas burning, is a lot simpler to operate and use. Each factory-built unit is properly sealed against drafts and flare ups, so you can burn the fuel of your choice without all the hassle of an old smoky fireplace.
5 Cheaper to Use direct vent gas fireplaces work well as secondary heat sources for spare bedrooms, workshops and home offices. Not to mention that in case of power outages many gas fireplaces allow you to manually override the electrical igniter switch so you can turn it on without power.
The only direct vent fireplace problems may be local building codes in your area. Most homeowners are not allowed to install these systems without the help of licensed professionals. So make sure you check out the installation services of the local dealers before you buy and see if you need additional contractor help.
