It is true that electric heat is of relatively good efficiency as none of the generated heat goes into waste. However, the entire space does not get evenly hit. This points to the need for a more effective and environmentally safer means of heat provision. Even though the fluctuation in natural gas prices is quite evident, gas fireplaces still feature as the most exciting choice in fireplaces.
Surprisingly, they far outsell their cordwood counterparts. In addition to maintaining the quality of indoor air and keeping your home clean, gas fireplaces are also known for creating less outdoor pollution compared to wood-burning places. It has become trendy that energy-conscious consumers are of late fueling the act of using gas fireplaces to provide sufficient zone heating for the spaces they tend to use mostly. These not only help them cut on cost but also provide them with a wide area of heating. Typically, an efficient gas fireplace insert is capable of heating up to 1,000 square meters of your living space at extremely low cost.
Excited? Well, we will not take that for granted. You could be the next person looking forward to benefiting from some of the latest gas fireplaces. In this article, we will take you through our review of the top 10 best gas fireplaces. Eventually, we shall also draw your attention to some of the factors you need to consider when buying a gas fireplace. Kindly set aside some time to allow yourself to read till the end.
Best Gas Fireplaces – [Reviews & Buying Guide]
The following is a list of the 10 best Gas Fireplaces reviews based on consumer report:
1. Napoleon GF36-2N
Napoleon GF36-2N is capable of producing up to 35,000 BTU which is sufficient for heating several large rooms. This appliance basically spoils gadget-loving customers. It has a fully programmable thermostat, enabling you to safely come home to a roaring fire upon being out on a cold day.
What We Liked:
- Ideal for heating large spaces
- Fully programmable
- Availability of oxygen depletion sensor
- Flame and heat adjustment options
What We Didn’t Like:
- Only burns natural gas
- Has an electric ignition only
2. Empire Comfort Systems DV-33IN-33LNG
This is an exceptionally well-made gas fireplace from Empire Comfort System brand which has been a key industrial player since 1932. It practically fits the bill of solid craftsmanship and generally has crowd-pleasing features.
What We Liked:
- High versatility
- Efficient heat output
- Variable burners
What We Didn’t Like:
- No essential safety barrier
- Noisy blower
3. Duluth Forge 170034
Forge 170034 comes in as our first reviewed Duluth product. It has a very high heat output which makes it an outstanding model from the Duluth brand. It features 32,000 BTU which allows you to heat several large rooms.
What We Liked:
- Runs on either propane or natural gas
- Easy to assemble
- A high output of heat
- Attractive finish options
What We Didn’t Like:
- No blower included
- Few contemporary designs
4. Pleasant Hearth VFF-PGHIMD-2H
This is a top-notch heating appliance which comes with a solid wood surround in addition to all the necessary components for putting out 27,000 BTU. It is priced much lower than most gas fireplace products within its range.
What We Liked:
- Easy to set up
- Pocket-friendly price
- Burns both propane and natural gas
What We Didn’t Like:
- No remote
- Moderate heat output
5. Superior Fireplace VCI3032 ZMN
Superior Fireplace VC1303 ZMN makes a variety of electric, wood, and gas units that come in both contemporary and traditional designs. This superb product comes with a millivolt ignition. It gives you a roaring fire even when your power goes out.
What We Liked:
- Has variable speed blower
- Works perfectly with a variety of decors
- Millivolt ignition
- 20-year warranty
What We Didn’t Like:
- No included accessories
6. Empire Comfort Systems VEP 28 IN 23LN
Empire Comfort Systems VEP 28 23LN lets you live in a smart home that practically takes good care of your daily tasks. You can easily set it and forget it thanks to its built-in thermostat. It also maintains a steady temperature on its own.
What We Liked:
- Comes with a blower
- Moderate heat output
- Energy efficient
What We Didn’t Like:
- Minimized customization options
- Only burns natural gas
7. Majestic MDVI35IN- CRDI35BK-5135-4832-BK
And here comes a lucrative product from the Majestic brand which can practically crank out 35,000 BTU of heat. It has a top vent which enables it to quickly distribute all the toasty warm air.
What We Liked:
- Programmable with remote
- Back-up ignition
- Intellifire ignition
- Sufficient heat production
What We Didn’t Like:
- Few customization options
8. Duluth Forge FDF300R
This gas fireplace from Duluth brand is true of simple design yet gets the job done effectively. It is ideal for users who don’t necessarily need lots of extras.
What We Liked:
- Good customization options
- Easy to set up
- Readily available replacement parts
What We Didn’t Like:
- Only produces 26,000 BTU
- Limited add-ons
9. Napoleon Plazmafire VF31
Napoleon Plazmafire VF31 produces 21,000 BTU. This is enough to keep you warm provided the external temperature does not drop too low. It is probably among the best variations for warm climates and small spaces.
What We Liked:
- Easy installation
- Easily hangs on the wall
- Eye-catching design
What We Didn’t Like:
- Electric-only ignition
- Not ideal for large spaces
10. Napoleon Hd35
Hd35 model of gas fireplace actually stands apart for all the variations from the Napoleon brand. It only weighs 12 pounds and is super ideal for use in smaller spaces such as mobile homes, bedrooms, and bathrooms.
What We Liked:
- Numerous design options
- Two Remotes
- Approved to be safe in small spaces
- Compact and lightweight
What We Didn’t Like:
- Produces only 25,000 BTU
- Few traditional design options
Buyer’s Guide How To Choose The Best Gas Fireplace
At the introductory part, we promised you that upon going through our reviewed list of top 10 best gas fireplaces, we would journey you through various factors to consider when purchasing a gas fireplace. Here we are, ready to fulfill our promise. Strait to the first point we go.
Type of Fuel
There are majorly two types of fuel commonly used with gas fireplaces: propane and natural gas. Propane is in most cases, known to be sued in the rural setup. It basically makes use of an independent tank and actually burns very well, producing plenty of heat. On the other hand, natural gas is commonly used in urban setups. This clean-burning fuel burns very effectively thus keeping the operating costs low.
Venting Type
The gas fireplaces are either vented or vent-free. Vented gas appliances tend to exhaust all the byproducts outdoors by use of installed venting. This ensures safe operation. Whereas the former variations of these appliances included natural venting/ B-vent, the current ones tend to be of a direct vent. Direct vent appliances have high installation flexibility. Vent-free units, also known as ventless or unvented units, are quite new in the industry. They are basically tailored for areas where venting is not quite possible. They have oxygen depletion sensors that automatically monitor the level of oxygen in the room thereby ensuring safe combustion.
Location of the Appliance
In terms of the appliance location, there are majorly three things to consider. These are the mobile home installation, venting configuration, and clearances.
Final Thought
Technology is fast advancing and believes me, gas fireplaces are a testimony to this fact. Having taken you through an extensive list of top 10 best gas fireplaces as well as buyer’s guide, we believe that you are good to go. Do yourself the very best by placing your order the soonest possible.