Finding the right propane heater insert for your fireplace means balancing heat output, installation needs, and safety features. The products below focus on ventless or dual-fuel inserts and log sets designed to work with liquid propane (LP) or natural gas, plus compatible free‑standing and mantle systems. Use the summary table to compare core specs at a glance.
| Product | BTU | Fuel Type | Coverage (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Duluth Forge Ventless 26,000 BTU Insert | 26,000 | LP / Natural Gas (Dual Fuel) | Up To 1,350 Sq. Ft. |
| Duluth Forge Dual Fuel Insert With Thermostat | 26,000 | LP / Natural Gas (Dual Fuel) | Up To 1,350 Sq. Ft. |
| Duluth Forge DLS-18R-1 18″ Log Set | 30,000 | LP / Natural Gas (Dual Fuel) | Up To 1,000 Sq. Ft. |
| Duluth Forge 32,000 BTU System With Mantle | 32,000 | LP / Natural Gas (Dual Fuel) | Up To 1,500 Sq. Ft. |
| ProCom Ventless 25,000 BTU Free Standing Unit | 25,000 | LP / Natural Gas (Dual Fuel) | Up To 1,100 Sq. Ft. |
Content Navigation
- Duluth Forge Ventless 26,000 BTU Dual Fuel No-Clearance Insert
- Duluth Forge Dual Fuel Insert With Thermostat Control
- Duluth Forge DLS-18R-1 18-Inch Dual Fuel Ventless Log Set
- Duluth Forge 32,000 BTU Dual Fuel System With Mantle
- ProCom Ventless 25,000 BTU Space-Saving Free Standing Unit
- Buying Guide: How To Choose A Propane Heater Insert For Your Fireplace
- 1. Ventless Vs. Vented Inserts
- 2. Fuel Compatibility And Conversion
- 3. BTU Output And Room Size
- 4. Thermostat And Controls
- 5. Installation And Clearances
- 6. Safety Features And Indoor Air Quality
- 7. Materials, Aesthetics, And Log Realism
- 8. Burners, Flame Pattern, And Heat Distribution
- 9. Local Codes And Permits
- 10. Maintenance And Serviceability
- Comparison Perspectives To Consider
Duluth Forge Ventless 26,000 BTU Dual Fuel No-Clearance Insert
This ventless gas fireplace insert offers 26,000 BTU output and is designed for no-clearance installations where no chimney or venting is required. It supports both liquid propane (LP) and natural gas, and includes hand-painted ceramic logs for a realistic appearance.
- Heat Coverage: Advertised up to 1,350 sq. ft., suitable for medium-to-large rooms.
- Design: Realistic, hand-painted logs cast from real wood using refractory ceramics.
- Ignition: Piezo ignition with 1 AAA battery included; user-friendly startup.
- Ventless Considerations: Provides high in-room efficiency but requires adherence to local codes and CO/combustion-air considerations.
Notes: As a vent-free model, proper placement and room ventilation are key. Always follow manufacturer’s installation guidelines and local regulations for ventless gas appliances.
Duluth Forge Dual Fuel Insert With Thermostat Control
This insert emphasizes thermostat control and versatility with its dual-fuel capability. The unit lists 26,000 BTU and features a realistic 5-log ceramic fiber arrangement for an enhanced visual presentation.
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- Thermostat Operation: Automatically cycles to maintain a set temperature, improving comfort and efficiency.
- Efficiency: Ventless design rated near 99.9% combustion efficiency for in-room heat delivery.
- Visuals: Five hand-painted logs and a mesh screen complete the traditional fireplace look.
- Installation: No external chimney needed, but requires gas line hookup and clearance checks per manufacturer specs.
Notes: Thermostat control can reduce fuel cycling compared with manual models, but installation should consider oxygen depletion and CO detector placement where local code requires it.
Duluth Forge DLS-18R-1 18-Inch Dual Fuel Ventless Log Set
This ventless gas log set is a burner kit designed for retrofit into existing fireplaces. It delivers 30,000 BTU and uses dual-fuel technology so you can connect to LP or natural gas.
- Components: Includes 8 hand-painted split red oak ceramic fiber logs, iron grate, and u-burner chassis for realistic flame patterns.
- Remote Control: Remote operation with standing pilot enables wireless on/off and flame adjustment features.
- Heating Area: Rated to heat up to approximately 1,000 sq. ft.; suitable for single-room supplemental heating.
- Durability: Uses refractory ceramics designed for long life in high-heat environments.
Notes: Log sets require proper burner sizing and placement inside an existing firebox and may need a professional gas line connection and conversion if switching fuel types.
Duluth Forge 32,000 BTU Dual Fuel System With Mantle
This complete ventless fireplace system pairs a high-output 32,000 BTU burner with a decorative mantle and six ceramic fiber logs. The package includes remote control and configurable thermostat settings.
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- High Output: 32,000 BTU rating suitable for larger living areas; coverage listed up to 1,500 sq. ft.
- Controls: Remote with LCD and toggles between manual and thermostat modes for precise temperature management.
- Aesthetics: Comes with a furniture-grade mantle, double doors, and a sprayed brick liner for a finished fireplace appearance.
- Fuel Flexibility: Patented dual-fuel design supports LP or natural gas connections.
Notes: Larger ventless systems require careful assessment of room volume and combustion air. Mantle dimensions and clearance must follow manufacturer instructions.
ProCom Ventless 25,000 BTU Space-Saving Free Standing Unit
The ProCom unit is a space-saving free-standing ventless fireplace with 25,000 BTU and a built-in thermostat for variable heat settings. It replicates a log-fire look with hand-painted refractory ceramic logs.
- Form Factor: Free-standing design simplifies placement compared with inserts that require a firebox.
- Thermostat: Variable settings allow for customized room temperature control and cycling.
- Heat Coverage: Rated for approximately 1,100 sq. ft. — suitable for medium rooms or supplemental heat.
- Durability: Uses ceramic refractory logs for long-term use and realistic flame appearance.
Notes: Free-standing ventless units offer installation flexibility but still require gas hookup and must comply with ventilation and safety codes where ventless appliances are restricted.
Buying Guide: How To Choose A Propane Heater Insert For Your Fireplace
Selecting the right propane (LP) insert or log set involves technical, aesthetic, and regulatory considerations. This guide covers the main points to evaluate before purchasing.
1. Ventless Vs. Vented Inserts
Ventless (Vent-Free) models deliver nearly all heat into the room and are easier to install because no chimney or flue is required. However, they exhaust combustion products into the living space at controlled levels, which may be restricted by local codes or not recommended for tight, poorly ventilated rooms.
Vented (Direct Vent / B-Vent) inserts route combustion exhaust outdoors, improving indoor air quality but reducing in-room heat efficiency and requiring more complex installation.
2. Fuel Compatibility And Conversion
Many products are listed as dual-fuel (LP and natural gas). Verify the unit includes factory or field conversion kits and that your installer is certified to convert or set gas pressures correctly. Confirm local code allowances for LP in ventless appliances.
3. BTU Output And Room Size
Match BTU output to room square footage and ceiling height. As a rough guide, 20,000–30,000 BTU suits medium-to-large rooms. Consider insulation, home layout, and whether the fireplace is primary or supplemental heat. Manufacturer coverage estimates assume ideal conditions.
4. Thermostat And Controls
Thermostat-equipped models provide temperature regulation and fuel-saving cycling. Remote controls and electronic ignition add convenience. For zonal heating, programmable thermostats help maintain comfort and efficiency.
5. Installation And Clearances
Check required clearances to combustibles, mantle dimensions, and whether a hearth modification or surround is needed. Free-standing units and mantelized systems have different clearance and support requirements. Professional installation is recommended to meet gas and building codes.
6. Safety Features And Indoor Air Quality
Look for oxygen depletion sensors (ODS), pilot safety features, and instructions on CO detector placement. Ventless appliances may elevate indoor humidity or CO levels under certain conditions, so ensure appropriate ventilation and detectors are in place.
7. Materials, Aesthetics, And Log Realism
Ceramic fiber and refractory ceramic logs vary in realism and heat tolerance. Higher-quality ceramic fiber logs retain detail and resist heat degradation. Consider the visual style (split oak, red oak, multi-log) and whether a mantle or surround is required to match room decor.
8. Burners, Flame Pattern, And Heat Distribution
Inspect burner design (u-burner, linear burner) for flame pattern and ember bed realism. Some inserts provide better front-facing flame visibility; others focus on heat spread. Inserts with mesh screens or glass fronts will affect perceived flame and convective heat.
9. Local Codes And Permits
Check municipal and state codes about ventless appliances. Some jurisdictions restrict or disallow ventless gas heaters in bedrooms or tight homes. Permits and inspections may be required for gas line installation and appliance set-up.
10. Maintenance And Serviceability
Confirm availability of replacement parts (logs, burners, pilot assemblies) and whether the unit requires periodic cleaning of burners or pilot orifice. Remote batteries, ignition modules, and thermostats may need occasional service.
Tips for Getting the Best HVAC Prices
- Prioritize Quality Over Cost
The most critical factor in any HVAC project is the quality of the installation. Don’t compromise on contractor expertise just to save money. - Check for Rebates
Always research current rebates and incentives — they can significantly reduce your overall cost. - Compare Multiple Quotes
Request at least three estimates before making your choice. You can click here to get three free quotes from local professionals. These quotes include available rebates and tax credits and automatically exclude unqualified contractors. - Negotiate Smartly
Once you've chosen a contractor, use the proven strategies from our guide — How Homeowners Can Negotiate with HVAC Dealers — to get the best possible final price.
Comparison Perspectives To Consider
- Efficiency Perspective: Ventless units provide maximum in-room heat transfer but rely on room air for combustion — best for supplemental heating in suitable areas.
- Air Quality Perspective: If indoor air quality and ventilation are priorities, a vented insert or electric alternative reduces combustion byproducts indoors.
- Installation Perspective: Free-standing units and log kits often have simpler installation paths than full recessed inserts with mantles.
- Cost & Long-Term Use: Consider fuel costs, thermostat efficiency, and maintenance availability. Higher BTU units can use more fuel but reduce runtime if they deliver faster heating.
- Aesthetics vs. Function: Mantle systems and multi-log setups deliver a finished look; burner-only log sets may require additional surround work for a polished appearance.