Choosing the right gas heater insert can improve comfort, efficiency, and the look of your fireplace. Below is a quick comparison of selected ventless and insert-style gas heaters that fit common fireplace openings and heating needs.
| Product | Fuel Type | BTU / Coverage | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Comfort Glow 24″ Highland Ember | Dual Fuel (LP/NG) | Heats Up To 1,400 Sq Ft | Remote With Thermostat |
| Duluth Forge 32000 BTU Insert | Dual Fuel (LP/NG) | Heats Up To 1,500 Sq Ft | Ventless, Remote With LCD |
| Comfort Glow 24″ Black Forest | Dual Fuel (LP/NG) | Heats Up To 1,250 Sq Ft | Ventless With Electronic Ignition |
| Duluth Forge System With Mantle | Dual Fuel (LP/NG) | Heats Up To 1,500 Sq Ft | Mantle Included, Thermostat Option |
| ProCom 10000 BTU Fireplace System | Dual Fuel (LP/NG) | Heats Up To 500 Sq Ft | Lower BTU, Mantle Style |
Comfort Glow 24″ Highland Ember Insert
This vent-free gas fireplace log insert is a 24″ dual fuel set designed for both natural gas and propane. The kit includes an 8-piece deep textured oak log set with an ember bed for a realistic flame appearance. It is intended to heat up to 1,400 square feet and features a remote-controlled thermostat that lets users adjust temperature settings from a distance.
Key technical points referenced from the product listing: dual fuel compatibility reduces installation limitations, the remote receiver is redesigned for extended battery life, and the realistic log arrangement aims to replicate a real wood fire without ash or wood handling. As a ventless design, the unit relies on room air for combustion and does not need a chimney or outside ducting.
Duluth Forge 32000 BTU Ventless Insert
The Duluth Forge ventless insert uses patented dual fuel technology for natural gas or liquid propane and delivers up to 32,000 BTU, with claimed coverage up to 1,500 square feet. The unit is described as 99.9% efficient as a vent-free heater, meaning nearly all heat is delivered to the room.
The system includes a remote control with LCD and a standing pilot so the remote can operate the flame. Manual flame adjustment and a realistic 6-piece ceramic fiber log set are highlighted. The insert includes mesh double doors and a sprayed brick liner for a finished appearance. As a ventless option, it removes the need for outside ducting or a chimney.
Comfort Glow 24″ Black Forest Insert
This 24″ Comfort Glow model features a 6-piece Black Forest log set and is marketed as a ventless insert with electronic ignition and an adjustable thermostat. It supports both propane and natural gas configurations for flexibility during installation.
Design notes from the product listing emphasize realistic textured logs and a vent-free layout intended to simplify retrofits into existing fireplaces. The thermostat control provides automated temperature cycling to maintain comfort without constant manual changes. The ventless design makes this insert suitable when chimney access is limited or when homeowners prefer a sealed setup.
Duluth Forge System With Mantle And Insert
This Duluth Forge kit pairs a ventless gas insert with a furniture-grade mantle and decorative finishes. It uses the same dual fuel ventless technology as the other Duluth Forge insert and offers up to 32,000 BTU heat output for coverage up to 1,500 square feet.
Highlighted features include a remote control with an LCD, an option to toggle between manual and thermostat control, hand-painted ceramic fiber logs, double doors, and a sprayed brick liner. The inclusion of a mantle provides a complete visual focal point for installations where aesthetics are a priority along with heating capability.
ProCom 10000 BTU Mantle Fireplace System
The ProCom system is a lower-BTU, ventless dual fuel fireplace insert designed for smaller rooms or supplemental heat. With a 10,000 BTU output, the product is suggested for spaces up to about 500 square feet. It includes a thermostat control to automatically cycle the fireplace for temperature maintenance.
Design elements include a 4-piece ceramic fiber log set, a furniture-grade mantle, and a mesh screen. The lower BTU rating reduces overall heat output compared to larger inserts, which can be an advantage when precise temperature control and modest heating are desired.
Buying Guide: How To Choose A Gas Heater Insert
Selecting the right gas heater insert requires matching unit specifications to your space and installation constraints. Use the checklist below to compare options effectively.
Fuel Type And Compatibility
- Dual Fuel (LP/NG) units provide flexibility if switching fuel types or when natural gas is not available.
- Confirm whether conversion kits or professional conversion are required for switching between propane and natural gas.
Ventless vs Vented
- Ventless (Vent-Free) inserts deliver nearly all heat to the room and do not require chimneys, but they exhaust combustion byproducts into the living space; this may affect indoor air quality and requires adequate ventilation and adherence to local codes.
- Vented units send combustion gasses outdoors and may be preferred in tight spaces or where indoor air concerns exist; vented systems typically need a chimney, flue, or direct vent.
BTU Output And Coverage
- Match BTU ratings to room size: higher BTU values heat larger areas. For example, 10,000 BTU suits small rooms, while 30,000+ BTU targets open-plan or larger spaces.
- Consider insulation, ceiling height, and existing HVAC zones when estimating coverage.
Controls And Thermostat Features
- Remote And Thermostat controls allow temperature setpoints and automated cycling, improving comfort and reducing manual adjustments.
- Check whether the remote uses a standing pilot or electronic ignition; standing pilots can enable remote on/off operation but may use more fuel over long idle periods.
Safety And Regulations
- Verify local building codes and any restrictions on ventless appliances. Some jurisdictions limit ventless installations due to indoor air quality concerns.
- Look for built-in safety features like oxygen depletion sensors or auto-shutoff valves where included.
Installation Considerations
- Measure your fireplace opening precisely to ensure a proper fit. Some inserts require minimal modification, while others need more extensive framing or mantles.
- Professional installation is often recommended for gas appliances to ensure correct connections, leak testing, and code compliance.
Visuals And Materials
- Ceramic fiber logs and hand-painted finishes provide realistic visual appeal; check whether the product includes a brick liner, mesh doors, or mantles if aesthetics matter.
- Durability of logs and burners influences long-term appearance and performance.
Efficiency And Operating Costs
- Ventless units often advertise high efficiency because heat isn’t lost through a flue. Consider that continuous pilot lights or high BTU settings will affect fuel consumption.
- Balance desired warmth with operating costs by using thermostat cycling rather than constant high output.
Room Air Quality And Ventilation
- Ventless combustion releases water vapor and combustion byproducts into the room; ensure adequate ventilation and monitor moisture buildup or odors.
- For households with respiratory sensitivities, consider vented systems or alternate heating approaches.
Comparison Perspectives
- From a heating capacity perspective, 30,000+ BTU models serve larger areas; 10,000 BTU models work best as supplemental heat.
- From an installation perspective, ventless dual fuel inserts are typically faster to install but may face local restrictions; units with mantles offer a turnkey visual solution for living spaces.
- From an economy perspective, compare thermostat control and remote features that can reduce fuel use by avoiding constant high-output operation.