Fireplace & Hearth

Direct Vent Fireplace

A direct vent fireplace is a sealed combustion gas fireplace that uses a coaxial or dual-pipe venting system to simultaneously draw combustion air from outside and exhaust gases through the same wall or roof penetration. This sealed design means the fireplace never uses indoor air for combustion, making it one of the safest and most efficient gas fireplace options available. The sealed glass front prevents any combustion gases from entering the living space while allowing full enjoyment of the flame display. The versatility of direct vent fireplaces has made them the most popular gas fireplace type for new construction and renovation projects. They can be vented horizontally through an exterior wall or vertically through the roof, with vent runs of up to 40 feet in some models, providing exceptional installation flexibility. Because they do not require a traditional chimney, direct vent fireplaces can be installed in virtually any room of the home, including bedrooms and bathrooms where building codes prohibit ventless appliances. Their efficiency ratings typically range from 70 to 85 percent.

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

Top vent direct vent fireplace
Rear vent direct vent fireplace
Linear contemporary direct vent
See-through direct vent fireplace
Corner direct vent fireplace

Common Materials

Heavy gauge steel fireboxTempered ceramic glass front panelStainless steel coaxial vent pipeCeramic fiber log sets and embersReflective refractory panel liningDecorative trim in multiple finish options

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.