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Ventless Fireplaces - Protect Your Family from Possible Health Hazards
Submitted by jcstoner
The use of ventless fireplaces has become very popular in new homes and when rehabbing older homes. The reasons for their popularity are many. The primary reasons though have to do with ease of installation and the flexibility that you get when you don't have to worry about flues and chimneys. For multi-unit buildings such as condos, being self contained is a real advantage and very cost effective. It makes individual fireplaces practical when you don't need chimneys and flues for each unit.
They are also very popular when remodeling or rehabbing a home. They can easily be added to bedrooms, studies, dens or other rooms. But there are potential hazards that should be considered. We all know that when natural gas burns carbon monoxide is generated. That's why all gas furnaces and water heaters are vented through a chimney. So how is it that we can burn the same natural gas in a ventless fireplace and not worry?
Well part of the reason is that the technology of the burners is much better and burns cleaner than in your furnace or water heater. The amount of carbon monoxide is far less with a ventless fireplace. Nonetheless, since the fireplace is ventless, carbon monoxide and other gases are vented directly into the room instead of up a chimney to the outside.
Also remember that whenever natural gas is burned, water is produced as a by-product. The water that is produced goes into your home as water vapor adding to the humidity. In the dry winter months this added humidity can be good, but like anything, too much can cause problems. In this case mold and mildew can form. If the water vapor cools and condenses on cold surfaces in hidden places, additional damage can occur over time.
There is a way to protect your home and family from these hazards and still have that ventless fireplace anywhere you want. There are two types of ventless fireplaces that eliminate the toxic carbon monoxide and the excess water. The answer lies in the gel fuel fireplace or the electric fireplace. Both of these are safe, clean fireplaces that give the look of a real fire without all the potential hazards.
The gel fuel fireplace burns an alcohol based fuel in a can. It is clean burning and odorless. It will give you a real flame and the sound of a crackling fire. The best part is that this fireplace is portable with easy installation and very little maintenance. The fire while real won't give off much heat so don't count on this as an alternative heat source.
A second good option is the electric fireplace. It is also portable, has no maintenance to speak of and needs only an electrical outlet for installation and operation. You'll get a heating unit and a fan or blower with most models, allowing you to heat a small room. However, with these the flame is only simulated so there isn't the sound of a crackling fire. I personally miss that but if that is not a problem these come in beautiful styles and finishes that will be spectacular in any room or office.
With all these alternatives why risk the potential hazards of the gas ventless fireplace. Protect your home and family and enjoy that fireplace you've always wanted. These fireplaces will look beautiful and give you years of care free service.
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