Are you looking for a warm, inviting fireplace without the hassle of vents, chimneys, or extensive remodeling?
Ventless gas fireplace inserts provide heat without requiring a chimney or vents. They can be installed in an existing fireplace or as a standalone unit. Powered by natural gas or propane, they produce real flames while warming a room efficiently. With easy installation and high fuel efficiency, they offer a cost-effective way to heat your space.
But with so many options available, how do you choose the right one?
From design and heating performance to features and safety, we’ve reviewed the best ventless gas fireplace inserts to help you find the perfect fit. Keep reading to explore top-rated models, expert recommendations, and everything you need to know before making your purchase.
So, what are you waiting for? Let’s go!
Table of Contents
Our Criteria
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Design: This evaluates the overall aesthetics, build materials, finishes, and flame realism. It also considers customization options, such as decorative elements that enhance the fireplace’s visual appeal.
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Heating Performance: This assesses the BTU output to determine heating effectiveness. It also discusses adjustable heat settings and energy efficiency to ensure optimal performance.
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Ease of Use and Installation: This considers how user-friendly the controls are and the reliability of the ignition system. It also looks at the flexibility of installation options to accommodate different spaces.
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Safety Features: This reviews safety certifications and built-in protections such as automatic shut-off mechanisms. It also takes into account design features that enhance child and pet safety.
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Cost and Efficiency: This analyzes the initial purchase price, installation expenses, and ongoing operational costs. It also evaluates fuel efficiency and overall value for long-term use.
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Warranty: This examines the length and comprehensiveness of the warranty coverage. It also considers the quality of customer service and the availability of repair services when needed.
#1 Monessen Solstice
Pictured: Monessen Solstice 33” Traditional Vent Free Natural Gas Fireplace Insert With Millivolt Ignition
The Monessen Solstice Series is an efficient and stylish solution for transforming an outdated masonry fireplace into a high-performance heat source. As a vent-free unit, it eliminates the need for a chimney or venting, making installation fast, cost-effective, and flexible. With up to 28,000 BTUs of warmth, the Solstice efficiently heats your living space while maintaining the beauty of a traditional fireplace.
Designed for customization, the Solstice insert allows homeowners to choose between realistic fiber ceramic or refractory logs for a classic wood-burning appearance or opt for contemporary fireglass for a modern look. The Natural Blaze Burner System ensures vibrant, flickering flames for an authentic fire experience.
Equipped with a 135 CFM blower, the Solstice maximizes heat output and distributes warmth effectively throughout the room. Plus, it operates without electricity, which ensures continued heating even during power outages.
With options for IPI and Millivolt units, the Solstice is available in both natural gas and propane models. The insert is available in a 33" model and includes an 18" flex line with an on/off shut-off valve for easy installation. Additional customization is available with optional brick panels, surrounds, flickering embers, and volcanic rock (sold separately). Lastly, this unit is backed by a limited lifetime warranty.
Sizes: 33" | Heat Output: 27,000 - 28,000 BTU | Fuel Type: Natural Gas or Propane | Venting Type: Ventless/Vent Free Insert | Warranty: Lifetime
What We Like |
Some Considerations |
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Flexible Installation:
Vent-Free Limitations:Performance
Design: The Monessen Solstice Series provides a sleek and customizable solution for converting outdated masonry fireplaces into efficient heat sources. The insert allows homeowners to choose between fiber ceramic or refractory logs for a traditional aesthetic or fireglass for a modern look. The Natural Blaze Burner System enhances realism with vibrant, flickering flames, while optional brick panels, surrounds, and decorative media provide additional personalization. However, with only a 33” model available, it may not fit all fireplace openings.
Heating Performance: With 27,000 to 28,000 BTUs of heat output, the Solstice efficiently warms medium-sized spaces. The 135 CFM blower helps distribute heat evenly, maximizing comfort. Additionally, since it operates without electricity, it provides reliable warmth even during power outages. However, vent-free fireplaces require proper ventilation, and some moisture production may be a concern.
Ease of Use and Installation: As a vent-free insert, the Solstice eliminates the need for a chimney or external venting, making installation fast and cost-effective. The unit includes an 18" flex line with an on/off shut-off valve for easy connection to a gas line. Available in IPI and Millivolt ignition systems, it supports both remote and manual operation for added convenience.
Safety Features: The vent-free design ensures maximum efficiency, while the Natural Blaze Burner System enhances safety by maintaining clean combustion. However, like all vent-free units, proper room ventilation is necessary to prevent moisture buildup. Some regions have restrictions on vent-free fireplaces, so homeowners should verify local building codes before purchasing.
Cost and Efficiency: The Solstice is a cost-effective way to upgrade an existing fireplace without the expense of venting. Its high efficiency (99.9%) ensures minimal heat loss, making it an economical choice for supplemental heating. However, decorative accessories such as brick panels, surrounds, and flickering embers are sold separately, increasing the overall cost.
Warranty: Backed by a limited lifetime warranty, the Solstice Series offers long-term durability and peace of mind, making it a reliable investment for homeowners.
What Our Customers Are Saying
“I’m really happy with the performance. It heats my space well and looks fantastic. Quality and efficiency of this unit are worth it.” — Grace G.
"Installation was easier than I expected! Didn’t need to deal with a chimney and the gas connection was simple with the included flex line. Ignites instantly as well. I highly recommend this product!" — Esther M.
#2 Empire Loft
Pictured: Empire Loft 27" Millivolt Control With On/Off Switch, Natural Gas Vent Free Small Fireplace Insert
The Empire Loft Series features a contemporary linear burner within a black reflective firebox, which the flames reflect off to add depth and ambiance to any space.
Designed for ease of use, the Loft Insert ignites instantly with a flick of a switch and operates without electricity. This makes the heat consistent and reliable, even during power outages. With 99.9% efficiency, it maximizes warmth while minimizing energy costs, making it an eco-friendly and cost-effective alternative to traditional wood-burning fireplaces.
The Loft Insert is offered in 27” and 30” sizes, designed to fit most existing masonry or prefabricated fireplaces. It is available in both natural gas and propane options, with a choice of Intermittent Pilot (IPI) or Millivolt ignition systems. It also gives off 14,000 to 28,000 BTUs of heat, perfect for warming rooms of all sizes. Additionally, the unit comes with a fine mesh barrier screen, black reflective liner, and linear burner.
For added customization and convenience, optional remote controls, thermostats, variable speed blowers, and decorative media (such as crushed glass) allow users to personalize their fireplace experience. The insert can also be installed as a vent-free fireplace, expanding placement possibilities in various room layouts. Lastly, this series is backed by a five-year limited warranty (including labor coverage).
Sizes: 27” to 30" | Heat Output: 14,000 - 28,000 BTU | Fuel Type: Natural Gas or Propane | Venting Type: Ventless/Vent Free Insert | Warranty: 5 years
What We Like |
Some Considerations |
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Performance
Design: The Empire Loft Insert offers a sleek, contemporary aesthetic with its linear burner and black reflective firebox, creating a modern, sophisticated ambiance. The flame reflections add depth, making this insert an eye-catching focal point. However, its minimalist, modern design may not appeal to homeowners seeking a traditional or rustic fireplace look.
Heating Performance: With a heat output ranging from 14,000 to 28,000 BTUs, the Loft Series provides efficient heating for small to medium-sized rooms. Its 99.9% efficiency rating ensures minimal heat loss and reduced energy costs, making it an eco-friendly heating option. However, its compact size and BTU range may not be sufficient for larger spaces requiring more heat output.
Ease of Use and Installation: The Loft Insert ignites instantly with a flick of a switch and operates without electricity, making it a reliable heat source even during power outages. Available in Intermittent Pilot (IPI) and Millivolt ignition systems, it provides flexibility in operation. Additionally, the vent-free design allows for installation without a chimney, making it a cost-effective and space-saving solution.
Safety Features: The Loft Series includes a fine mesh barrier screen, adding an extra layer of protection. While vent-free technology maximizes heat efficiency, proper ventilation is required to prevent moisture buildup. Local regulations may restrict installation in certain states due to air quality concerns, so homeowners should check building codes before purchasing.
Cost and Efficiency: The high efficiency (99.9%) ensures that most of the heat generated remains in the room, reducing fuel consumption. However, while the base unit is affordable, customization options like remote controls, thermostats, blowers, and decorative media (such as crushed glass) are sold separately, increasing the total cost.
Warranty: The Loft Series is backed by a five-year limited warranty, including labor coverage, ensuring long-term reliability and peace of mind. While this warranty is solid, some competitors offer longer coverage for certain components.
What Our Customers Are Saying
“I was looking for a contemporary fireplace insert and this unit delivered exactly that. The reflective firebox enhances the flames beautifully and the heat output is impressive. I also appreciate that it works without electricity - great for power outages.” — Marion P.
"We love this fireplace! It heats our living room quickly and I love how the flames reflect off the black liner. However, I wish some accessories were included. Still, it’s a great unit overall!" — Ernest H.
#3 Empire Innsbrook
The Empire Innsbrook Series offers traditional charm and high-efficiency heating, making it an ideal upgrade for existing wood-burning fireplaces. This series is offered in 27” and 29” sizes, available in natural gas or propane options, with a choice of Intermittent Pilot (IPI) or Millivolt ignition systems.
This vent-free insert produces between 15,000 and 28,000 BTUs and seamlessly fits into most masonry or prefabricated fireplaces. Designed for ease of use, the Innsbrook Series ignites at the flick of a switch and can operate without electricity, ensuring reliable heat even during power outages. Featuring Empire’s exclusive Slope Glaze Burner, it produces natural flickering flames that dance across hand-painted ceramic fiber logs, creating an exceptionally realistic fire display.
The Innsbrook insert also comes fully equipped with a Banded Brick Ceramic Liner, fine mesh barrier screen, blower, and variable-flame burner. Optional remotes, thermostats, and decorative surrounds allow homeowners to customize their experience to match their home’s style and convenience needs.
With 99.9% efficiency, the Innsbrook Insert maximizes warmth while minimizing energy costs, making it an eco-friendly and cost-effective alternative to vented fireplaces. This unit can also be installed as a vent-free fireplace, offering flexibility in placement and installation. Lastly, this series is backed by a five-year limited warranty (including labor coverage).
Sizes: 27” to 29" | Heat Output: 15,000 - 28,000 BTU | Fuel Type: Natural Gas or Propane | Venting Type: Ventless/Vent Free Insert | Warranty: 5 years
What We Like |
Some Considerations |
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Performance
Design: The Empire Innsbrook Series offers a traditional aesthetic with hand-painted ceramic fiber logs and a Banded Brick Ceramic Liner, providing a classic wood-burning fireplace look. The exclusive Slope Glaze Burner enhances realism by producing natural flickering flames. However, no alternative brick liner options are available, which may limit customization for certain interior styles.
Heating Performance: With a heat output of 15,000 to 28,000 BTUs, the Innsbrook efficiently heats small to medium-sized rooms. The built-in blower improves heat distribution, ensuring consistent warmth. Additionally, the unit operates without electricity, making it a reliable heat source during power outages. However, vent-free fireplaces require proper ventilation to avoid moisture buildup.
Ease of Use and Installation: The vent-free design eliminates the need for a chimney, allowing for flexible placement in various room layouts. Available in Intermittent Pilot (IPI) and Millivolt ignition systems, the unit can be operated manually or via remote control. The fine mesh barrier screen and variable-flame burner come standard, providing easy operation and enhanced flame control.
Safety Features: The Innsbrook Series is ANSI-certified, ensuring compliance with strict safety standards. The fine mesh barrier screen adds extra protection, while the 99.9% efficiency rating ensures minimal heat loss. However, some states and municipalities restrict vent-free fireplaces, so homeowners should check local regulations before installation.
Cost and Efficiency: The Innsbrook Series maximizes efficiency (99.9%), keeping fuel consumption low while providing high heat output. The inclusion of a blower, mesh screen, and ceramic liner adds value, but optional accessories such as remotes, thermostats, and decorative surrounds must be purchased separately, increasing the overall cost.
Warranty: Backed by a five-year limited warranty, including labor coverage, the Innsbrook Series ensures long-term reliability and customer support. However, some competitors offer longer warranties on major components.
What Our Customers Are Saying
“I installed this unit in my old wood-burning fireplace and I couldn’t be happier! The heat output is fantastic - it warms my entire living room nicely and it produces very realistic flames. I also love that it operates without electricity. Highly recommended!” — Natalie P.
"This unit is perfect for my needs. It’s very easy to use with a switch or remote. The blower helps distribute heat evenly, and I like that it doesn’t require electricity to function. The installation was straightforward, and it fit perfectly in my existing fireplace opening." — Christopher D.
Where To Buy?
Before purchasing a ventless gas insert, it's crucial to buy from the manufacturer or an authorized reseller. This guarantees that you're receiving an authentic product with full warranty coverage and reliable customer support. Purchasing from unauthorized sellers can lead to issues with product quality, warranty claims, or even receiving the wrong unit.
Looking for a reliable source for your vent free gas fireplace insert?
Shop at US Fireplace Store, your premier destination for top-quality ventless gas inserts. We offer the latest and most sought-after models from leading brands like Empire Comfort Systems, Monessen, and more. Explore our collection today to find the perfect gas insert for your home.
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