5 Best Gas Fireplace Inserts In 2024 | Reviews & Buying Guide

While a traditional fireplace delivers a graceful appeal to your space, a gas fireplace insert is more cost-effective and efficient. Apart from that, burning natural wood can lead to a tedious cleaning routine, and purchasing wood logs can be a costly endeavor. 

So, having a gas-powered fireplace insert saves energy and costs and cuts off labor-intensive cleaning tasks. Plus, most modern gas fireplace inserts render a natural log appeal. 

However, with so many options on the market, selecting an ideal model for your home might be difficult. Hence, we took it upon ourselves to select and review some of the best options. Now, without further ado, let’s get to know more about them. 

Best Gas Fireplace Inserts 

Here is the list of the 5 best gas fireplace inserts that you can use to create a warm and cozy atmosphere in your home.

1. Peterson Real Fyre Live Oak Log Set - Best for Natural Appearance & Safety

The Peterson real fyre live oak log set is a premier example of craftsmanship that captures quality and tradition with natural realism. Its bark is hand-painted to deliver the look of natural wood and it’s made of superior refractory ceramics to deliver radiant heat, even if the burner is turned off. And its vented design means it won’t affect the air quality while burning. 

Why Did We Like It?

There are several reasons to like this gas fireplace insert by Peterson. For one, the logs are meticulously hand-painted to give a realistic and natural look. They are made of refractory ceramic with steel rods inserted to make them more robust. And their unique design allows them to burn for some time even after the burner is switched off. 

This unit is a low-maintenance fireplace, and the burner comes with a 10-year warranty, while the logs are covered for a lifetime. Plus, the vent-free design means you don’t need to install a separate chimney to eliminate the flames. Apart from that, it generates a maximum heat of 90,000 BTUs, which is enough to heat any large-sized room, and this ventless fireplace saves a lot on fuel consumption. 

Last, but not least, it comes with an ODS (Oxygen Depletion Sensor) safety system and a safety pilot valve to control the use of natural gas. 

What Could've Been Better?

Installing this gas fireplace insert can be challenging if you’re a first-timer. Hence, we suggest following the detailed step-by-step instructions provided in the user manual. And if you’re still not confident enough, it’s always a good idea to call a professional. 

2. Peterson Real Fyre Split Oak Log Set - Best for Aesthetics & Realism

This is yet another gas model by Peterson on our list, and its exquisite design, heat output, and other features make it one of the most desirable products. Although it has many features in common with its sibling product, it also has some notable differences. 

Why Did We Like It?

Starting with its design, the split logs are painted to capture the texture, realism, and subtle nuances found in nature, adding an aesthetic look to your home. And the split pieces and their ends are colored differently than the bark, including a detailed red feather painting, giving the logs the most authentic appearance. 

The Peterson Real Fyre comes with a vented G45 burner designed in a T-shape and with a smaller pipe running through the ember bed and a large one through the center of the pan. Such a design allows for the flames to “dance” both at the center of the ember bed and logs set, thereby forming a more realistic fire pattern. 

Apart from that, with a maximum heat output of 90,000 BTUs, it’s sure to heat every corner of your house. So, you can just sit practically anywhere in the room to feel the warmth. 

What Could've Been Better?

Like its sibling product, it doesn’t come with any safety feature or control knob to regulate the flow of natural gas. As a result, you don’t have much control over the fire and heat generated from it. 

3. Empire Flint Hill Log Set - Best for Affordability & Versatility

Empire brings you an exquisite-looking and hand-painted log set that comes at a budget-friendly price and is ideal for both existing gas fireplaces or fireboxes and newly constructed ones. It can be a perfect replacement for a traditional fireplace that comes with various inconveniences like ash, improper heat, and burning out quickly. 

Why Did We Like It?

This gas fireplace insert by Empire is integrated with richly detailed and hand-painted logs, which you can arrange to deliver an illusion of real wood fire. 

Unlike other products on our list, it runs on liquid propane fuel, which is highly preferred over natural gas or LPG in terms of affordability, convenience, and environmental friendliness. And it’s much safer to use compared to traditionally-used fuels. 

Apart from that, it comes with an oxygen depletion system- a safety feature that turns off the heater automatically as soon as it detects a lesser flow of oxygen and increasing concentrations of carbon monoxide. And the unit complements both vent-free and vented models, making it a versatile and convenient choice. 

What Could've Been Better?

Irrespective of the benefits of using propane fuel, it’s incapable of generating much heat compared to traditional oil fuels. Plus, installing the unit is a challenging process and requires you to call upon a professional. 

4. Empire Tahoe Deluxe 36" Direct-Vent

The Empire Tahoe gas fireplace insert is another quality product by the company known for its reliability. With a maximum of 20,000 BTU output, it can cover up to 1,000 square feet. And it runs on both natural gas and propane gas. 

Why Did We Like It?

So far, this propane fireplace insert is one of the most efficient direct-vent appliances on our list and is known for its millivolt control features and durability. If price is not a concern anyway, you would love to have a unit with an 83% heat-generating capacity.  

Roughly, it generates up to 20,000 BTUs of heat with a natural gas supply, which covers up to 1,000 square feet, which is essentially a middle-sized room. For liquid propane, the output generated is 16,500 BTUs per hour. 

Besides, the direct vent model comes with a thermostat remote control to adjust the mini-volt gas valve and shut down the system. The manufacturer recommends purchasing a separate double-wall chimney pipe to release the extra heat generated. And, you can install a safety screen to create a barrier screen with the flames. 

What Could've Been Better?

The unit comes at a premium price and all other accessories like the remote control, safety screen, and chimney need to be purchased separately. And without these accessories, it's a basic fireplace insert suitable for heating a medium-sized room. 

5. Pleasant Hearth Vented Gas Fireplace Insert

Pleasant Hearth comes with the six most realistic, detailed, and impressionable logs for modern fireplaces and people who want to feel the essence of traditional wood burn. These are easy to install and generate sufficient heat to cover up an entire house. And the unit is one of the most affordable units on our list. 

Why Did We Like It?

Probably one of the cheapest options on our list, this gas fireplace insert comes with a massive heat output of 55,000 BTUs per hour. The unit runs on both natural gas and propane, but the heat output is much less in the case of the latter. 

Concerning design, the gas insert is surrounded by solid wood, which adds to its sleek look. And its realistic and detailed logs add up to its elegance. 

Moving on, thanks to its versatile installation options, the unit is much easier to install. Even if you haven’t installed these things before, simply follow the instructions provided in the user manual. 

It is a ventless model, so you don’t need an extra chimney to eliminate the extra heat and gases produced. And it comes with a thermostat remote control, so you can relax peacefully by maintaining an ideal temperature level. 

What Could've Been Better?

The most disappointing feature of this product is that it doesn’t come with an ODS safety feature. Having this feature enables easy detection of oxygen levels, and any reduction in concentration would turn off the burner. The absence of this feature can be risky if you fail to detect it, thereby increasing the concentration of carbon monoxide. 

Best Gas Fireplace Inserts Comparison Table

Buying Guide For The Best Gas Fireplace Inserts

Before selecting a gas fireplace, it’s essential to know about and explore certain aspects. In this detailed buyer’s guide, we’ll explain these to help you further select an ideal unit for your home. So, let's get on discussing these. 

1. Types Of Gas Fireplace Inserts

There are several types of gas fireplace inserts available on the market. These are divided on whether they are vented or ventless, based on their gas use, either propane or natural gas. 

Most units are designed for natural gas, but we might not have access to the fuel in a particular area. So, the solution will be to use a propane fireplace insert, also known as an LPG fireplace insert. Propane generates less heat than natural gas but is much cheaper than it and comes in bulk tanks, while the latter reaches your home through a gas line. 

In fact, gas inserts with propane fuel options generally have dual-fuel technology. It means they are manufactured to run on natural gas but are either compatible with propane or come with a conversion kit if needed during installation. 

2. Traditional Fireplaces Vs. Fireplace Inserts

While traditional fireplaces deliver an undeniable charm to the house, there are numerous reasons to upgrade to a fireplace insert. Although the former look attractive, they create an unnecessary mess, and replacing the logs can be costly. You must clean stains and ash caused by smoke, and removing hot ash can be a fire hazard. 

On the other hand, technology-laid modern fireplace inserts look like a natural log and free you up from any inconvenience. And they have an efficiency rating between 70% and 99%, compared to 5-10% in a traditional fire. It means more heat is generated, and bills are reduced. These are also much easier to clean. 

3. Vented Models Vs. Vent-Free Models

While these gas inserts are classified as vented or vent-free, the former is available in two models: direct vent or natural vent. A natural vent uses an existing chimney and is an ideal replacement for a traditional fireplace. However, most of them are open models and, therefore, less safe and efficient. 

On the other hand, most houses have a direct vent model installed. These can be vented horizontally and vertically, making it ideal where there’s no fireplace. 

Vented systems must vent to the exterior wall, which might be impractical for some houses. Vent-free fireplaces practically eliminate the problem and are much more efficient and easier to install. However, they potentially release harmful carbon monoxide in the room, and therefore for them to be safe, the company fits them with a safety device named an oxygen depletion sensor. 

It shuts down the insert if the oxygen level reaches below the standard level. 

4. Heat Coverage And Efficiency

Heat efficiency ratings depend primarily on the vent type, and vented models are generally 70-85% efficient, while the efficiency of ventless models can go up to 99%. The heating performance of an appliance is measured using BTU (British Thermal Unit), which tells you the overall fire output. 

A good fireplace insert needs to have a value of 20 BTU per square foot of living space. While this is a standard value, some models quote higher or lower figures than the average. 

Apart from that, air circulation is also a key factor in this respect. Some models include a blower pushing hot air into the room, quickly warming the air. While you might not find it in other models, there’s always a provision to install these separately. 

5. Additional Features

Some additional features can make an individual model much more user-friendly. For one, you get a standard electronic ignition in most, but some require a household supply but both piezoelectric and millivolt. So, check before purchasing. 

While most gas fireplace inserts have a control knob, some have thermostat remote controls for variable flame height adjustment to set up for visual preference and heat output. 

Gas Fireplace Inserts FAQ's

Is a gas fireplace powered by electricity?

Not all need electricity to run. Some electric fireplaces need a standard household electricity supply for the pilot light, but they might need a battery backup in a power outage. While others only need propane or natural gas and don’t need electricity to run. 

Can I install a fan kit or blower on my gas fireplace?

Many models come with a blower or fan kit, so those don’t need to be installed separately. At the same time, there’s also a provision to install them separately. 

Are the fumes emitted from gas fireplace inserts toxic?

Yes, carbon monoxide is a byproduct of burning gas and is considered lethal. But these models have safety features installed to keep you safe from its exposure. 

Can a gas fireplace insert heat an entire home?

Gas fireplace inserts are primarily designed to heat the room they are installed in, rather than an entire home. However, some high-efficiency models with built-in fans or blowers can distribute heat to adjacent rooms as well. For whole-house heating, it’s recommended to consider a central heating system.

Are gas fireplace inserts safe?

Yes, gas fireplace inserts are designed with safety in mind. They typically have built-in safety features such as oxygen depletion sensors, flame sensors, and automatic shut-off systems. However, it’s crucial to have a professional installation and regular maintenance to ensure safe operation.

Can I convert my wood-burning fireplace to a gas fireplace insert?

Yes, in most cases, it is possible to convert a wood-burning fireplace to a gas fireplace insert. However, it’s important to consult with a professional to assess the feasibility and safety of the conversion for your specific fireplace.

Conclusion

We truly appreciate the time you've taken to dive into our article on the best gas fireplace inserts. We hope you found it both informative and enjoyable. With so many high-quality options available, it can be tough to choose the ideal one for your home. We're here to make that decision easier!

Out of these 5 best gas fireplace inserts, here are our top three recommendations:

• For a perfect blend of natural appearance and top-notch performance, the Peterson Real Fyre Live Oak Log Set is an ideal option. It's hand-painted logs and steel rod reinforced ceramics, along with the outstanding 90,000 BTUs heat output, ensure a cozy and inviting ambiance in your home. Plus, its vent-free design and safety features sweeten the deal.
• If you're looking for a fireplace insert with a stunning appearance and unique burner design, the Peterson Real Fyre Split Oak Log Set is a good option. Its lifelike log design and impressive heat output create a warm atmosphere every time you fire it up. Although it lacks certain safety features, this insert is a perfect choice for those who want a standout centerpiece while also staying cozy.
• When it comes to affordability and versatile compatibility with both vent-free and vented models, the Empire Flint Hill Log Set is the right choice. Using propane fuel, this insert comes with a built-in ODS (Oxygen Depletion Sensor) safety system providing both convenience and peace of mind.

By investing in one of these high-quality fireplace inserts, you'll not only enhance the beauty of your living space but also create a warm and welcoming environment. Whichever product you choose from our premium list, be ready to bask in the warmth and charm of a flickering fire anytime you desire. Enjoy the coziness that these fireplace inserts have to offer, and create lasting memories with your loved ones gathered around that enchanting glow.

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