Direct Vent Fireplace
Key Characteristics
- ✓Sealed combustion draws only outdoor air
- ✓Coaxial venting through wall or roof
- ✓No traditional chimney required
- ✓Safe for bedrooms and bathrooms
- ✓Efficiency ratings of 70 to 85 percent
- ✓Sealed glass front prevents indoor air contamination
Types & Variations
Common Materials
Works Well With These Styles
Placement & Usage Tips
Direct vent fireplaces offer the most flexibility for placement. They can be installed on interior or exterior walls, with horizontal venting being the simplest installation. Ensure vent termination clearances meet local codes.
💡 Pro Tip
When selecting a direct vent fireplace, pay attention to the BTU rating and match it to your room size. An oversized unit will cycle on and off uncomfortably, while an undersized unit will run constantly. Most manufacturers provide room size guidelines for each model.
Related Terms
Gas Fireplace
A fireplace that burns natural gas or propane to produce flames, offering convenient heat and ambiance without the need for wood storage or ash cleanup.
Ventless Fireplace
A fireplace designed to operate without any external venting, burning fuel so completely that the byproducts are safely released into the room, though regulations vary by location.
Fireplace Flue
The interior passage or duct within a chimney through which smoke and combustion gases travel from the firebox to the exterior of the building.