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Suitable for in-wall installation, the Empire deluxe direct-vent fireplace insert has clean, modern lines and a broad opening to put out enough heat to cover 782 square feet. At 37 inches wide, this model ships with seven ceramic logs, a burner, a barrier screen and a blower. Plus, it’s remote-ready, so you can add on a remote to sit back, relax and watch that big, beautiful flame. To sweeten the deal, this Empire insert comes in at a lower overall price than many smaller units.
Pros
- Generates up to 25,000 BTUs
- Flame height is adjustable
- Minimalistic, clean style
- Four liner designs available
- Comes with ceramic logs, a burner, a barrier screen and a blower
Cons
- You need to buy the remote separately
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One drawback to gas fireplace inserts: They don’t all look like real logs. Even when the fireplace is turned off in the warmer months, logs that look too fake will spoil anyone’s view. Choosing your logs, whether you’re updating an existing fireplace insert or upgrading a new insert, is important. Peterson Real Fyre offers several options, from birch to red oak. These logs are hand-painted and include glowing ember beds that look so real, you expect to smell smoke.
Pros
- Includes six realistic logs
- Features dual-fuel vented burners that produce flames
- Logs are reinforced with steel rods
- Comes with silica sand for an ember glow
- Comes in 18- and 24-inch options
Cons
What to Consider When Buying a Gas Fireplace Insert
Be sure to check code requirements for gas fireplaces where you live. Many states and municipalities have specific regulations for venting and clearance that will impact your selection. Like you would any other fireplace, it’s important to service and maintain gas fireplaces to keep them safe and working properly. Here are other considerations when shopping for the best gas fireplace insert for your space:
- Size: Will the insert provide enough heat to the room or area you want to warm up?
- Design: Do you want a basic model or something with a little more flair?
- Budget: How much are you willing to spend on an insert?
Why You Should Trust Us
This article was produced by Kathleen Purvis and Dan Stout. Purvis is a freelance writer who specializes in consumer research. Stout is a former residential remodeler, commercial site supervisor and maintenance manager, and has written a wide range of Family Handyman content for many years. Because of his extensive experience in building and DIY, he knows what products work best in a home.
We consulted with Russ Dimmitt, the director of education at the Chimney Safety Institute of America, on this story. Dimmit has nearly three decades in the chimney and venting industry. He educates chimney sweeps and professionals on the latest products, safety protocols and all other aspects when it comes to chimneys. Dimmitt knows the ins and outs of how fireplaces work and need to be maintained, so he’s able to properly advise homeowners on the best options for them.
How We Found the Best Gas Fireplace Inserts
To settle on the best gas fireplace inserts, we looked at the top brands in the space and scoured reviews by real-life consumers who have used them. To make sure we were focusing on industry standards, we spoke with Russ Dimmitt, the director of education at the Chimney Safety Institute of America. After considering sizes, designs and budgets, we landed on the top five picks.
FAQ
What is the difference between a gas fireplace and a gas fireplace insert?
A gas fireplace is an existing fireplace built into your home that runs off natural gas or propane. A gas fire insert is designed to fit inside an existing wood-burning fireplace. It produces flames like a wood-burning fireplace, but it’s safer to use, more environmentally friendly and more heat efficient than wood fires. Like a built-in gas fireplace, an insert can be fueled by natural gas or propane and is tied into your home’s existing gas supply line.
Do gas fireplace inserts need to be vented?
Gas fireplaces, including inserts, can be direct-vent or ventless. Direct-vent systems are usually more expensive and less energy-efficient since heat escapes up the chimney. Unvented or vent-free systems are usually less expensive, but they aren’t designed to provide heat. They also pose the potential risk of depleting indoor oxygen levels. While some come with oxygen depletion sensors that can shut off the fire for safety, ventless systems are illegal in many states and jurisdictions, even when equipped with sensors.
Dimmitt says a direct-vent insert is the best. “Those are much more efficient, and you’re not paying for heat that’s going up the chimney,” he says.
Is propane or natural gas better for fireplace inserts?
Natural gas is generally cheaper and safer than propane, but propane is more energy efficient at producing heat and easier on the environment because it burns more cleanly.
Dimmitt says the type of fuel you use for your gas fireplace depends on the availability in your area or what is already set up in your home. “Generally, natural gas is the usual option available in urban and suburban areas. Liquid propane is an option available in some suburban areas and rural areas,” he adds.
Additional information was contributed by Family Handyman writer, Dan Stout.
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