Choosing the Right Gas Fireplace
Gas fireplaces have come a long way; instead of fake flames and only a handful of choices, homeowners now have a wide variety of realistic gas heating appliances to choose from. As the National Association of Homebuilders has found that fireplaces are the second most popular home feature, installing one in your home can add significant value. 
With so many kinds of gas fireplaces on the market today, however, it can be difficult to find the right fit for your family. By working with true fireplace experts instead of employees at a big box store, you can rest assured that your new fireplace will fit your home’s style and heating needs.
The kind of fireplace you choose will be determined by any existing fireplaces in your home, your heating needs, as well as personal preference. There are three main categories of gas fireplaces: vented, direct vent, and vent free.
Vented
Vented gas fireplaces use a traditional chimney or venting system for exhaust. Gasses and other byproducts of combustion [http://homebuying.about.com/cs/gaslogs/a/vented_gas_logs.htm] from the fire travel up the chimney and vent safely to the outside of your home; this makes them the ideal choice for homes with existing hearths. Vented gas fireplaces are often the best choice for homeowners who have a wood burning fireplace but want to switch to the efficiency and ease of use that gas provides. Because the byproducts of combustion for a gas fire are much different than those for wood burning fires, your existing chimney may need to be relined in order to vent efficiently.
Direct Vent
Direct vent fireplaces also vent the byproducts of combustion from your gas fire to the outside of your home; in these fireplaces, as two-layer pipe goes directly from the exterior of your home to the fireplace without drawing any air from inside your home. This unique venting system [http://www.hgtv.com/remodel/mechanical-systems/advantages-of-a-direct-vent-fireplace] virtually eliminates any chance of gas or carbon monoxide backing up into the home. Direct vent gas fireplaces are typically installed on exterior walls for easy venting.
Vent Free
Vent free gas fireplaces are unique in that they are not permanently installed in one place; because they do not require venting systems, these fireplaces can be moved around as needed and installed anywhere in the home. This allows homeowners to heat specific rooms or areas as needed without committing to installing a permanent gas fireplace.
As with many heating appliances, there are recommended usage rules for vent free gas fireplaces. Because the oxygen for the fire is drawn from your home, most manufacturers recommend keeping a nearby window open when the vent free fireplace is in use. Likewise, these fireplaces should not be used for long periods of time and should be serviced regularly to reduce the risk of gas or carbon monoxide leaks.
Picking the right gas fireplace can help keep you and your family warm and cozy this winter. For more information on what fireplace is right for you, visit the fireplace store at Clean Sweeps of Michigan today!