The Best Gas Fireplace Inserts of 2024

Hello, my friend, hello again; today we come together to talk about The Best Gas Fireplace Inserts of 2024 and hope the blog can help you.

Gas fireplace inserts offer the attraction of a real flame and are easy to live with. Learn the key features to help you find the best model for your home.

There are several different types of fireplace inserts, but gas fireplaces are a favorite because they offer you a similar ambience to that of a real fire while being effortless to light. With no soot or ash to deal with, they are also easy to keep clean.

Gas fireplace inserts are often fitted as a replacement for existing wood-burning fireplaces, offering much more efficient and economical heating. They are also a popular installation for new builds and remodels, which is how I have used them myself.

As I know from my own experiences, the gas insert buyer will find plenty of choice. However, some of the technical aspects can be daunting. I put together this guide to clarify the options and explain key features. After looking at almost 50 different models, I have also selected what I believe are the best gas fireplace inserts currently available.

1. BEST OVERALL: Duluth Forge Dual-Burner Fireplace Insert and Remote
2. RUNNER-UP: Duluth Forge Dual-Fuel Ventless Gas Fireplace Insert
3. BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Pleasant Hearth Zero-Clearance Gas Fireplace Insert
4.  BEST FLEXIBILITY: ProCom Universal Ventless Firebox
5. BEST DIRECT-VENT: Empire Tahoe Deluxe Direct-Vent Millivolt Fireplace
6. MOST VERSATILE: Ashley Hearth Products 34,000 BTU Vent-Free Firebox
7. BEST LOG SET: Natural Glo Large Fireplace Logs
8. ALSO CONSIDER: Montigo 30FID Illume Contemporary Direct-Vent Insert

How We Chose the Best Gas Fireplace Inserts

Personal taste is a major factor when choosing things like gas fireplace inserts, but I have tried to remain objective and include a broad range of styles. The Bob Vila team and I researched products from as many different brands as we were able to find, from major retailers to less well-known suppliers.

We have been careful to avoid focusing only on the leading brands and to include a varied model lineup. We looked at heating performance, flue type (which impacts ease of installation), and a variety of user-friendly features. The result is a balanced selection for different-size spaces and budgets.

Our Top Picks

The best gas fireplace insert for a shopper’s space needs to have an ideal heat output, size, and efficiency rating. Below are some of the top fireplace inserts available for making the hearth beautiful.

Best Overall

Duluth Forge Dual-Burner Fireplace Insert and Remote

For a top pick that keeps working for years to come, rely on the Duluth Forge dual-burner fireplace insert. This unique and fave 32-inch fireplace insert has a zero-clearance design for preventing air gaps, and it can be paired with a face or recess mantel for an extra-classy look in an office or living space. Plus, it comes with a remote control, oxygen-depletion sensor, an automatic shutoff function, battery-assisted piezo ignition, plus it radiates over 32,000 British thermal units (BTUs) of heat, making it ideal for spaces up to 1,500 square feet.

The dual-fuel technology on this model also allows for ample power and reliability while in use and operates on either natural gas or liquid propane for proper operation. Need more? This top pick also comes with logs for added convenience.

Product Specs

• BTUs: 32,000
• Vent type: Ventless
• Efficiency rating: 99.9 percent

Pros

• Zero-clearance design prevents air leaks; can be paired with a face or recess mantel
• Comes with a lot of intuitive safety features for reliable and long-term use
• Remote control included for quick and easy adjustment anywhere in the room
• Comes with fire logs for added convenience and user-friendliness

Cons

• May emit too much heat for some users’ liking

Get the Duluth Forge gas fireplace insert and remote at Amazon, Lowe’s, or The Home Depot.

Runner-Up

Duluth Forge Dual-Fuel Ventless Gas Fireplace Insert

Those who love beautiful, classic gas fireplaces will want to check out the Duluth Forge dual-fuel ventless fireplace insert. This effective unit has a heat output of 26,000 BTUs per hour, meaning it can heat spaces of up to 1,350 square feet. Plus, the unit requires no external venting for proper operation.

This dual-fuel model is also very safe with the oxygen-depletion sensor onboard. This sensor monitors the air quality and sounds an alarm when the oxygen level in a space becomes low. The unit slides into an existing masonry fireplace and comes with a remote control for turning on the flames. That’s right, this ceramic fireplace requires no matches or fire, making it perfect for homes with young children and pets.

Product Specs

• BTUs: 26,000
• Vent type: Vent-free
• Efficiency rating: 99.9 percent

Pros

• Capable of heating spaces of up to 1,350 square feet; perfect for cold winter months
• Oxygen-depletion sensor integrated; monitors the oxygen levels in the air
• Can fit into an existing wood-burning fireplace for versatility and convenience
• Completely flameless construction is safe for children and pets

Cons

• Some users have reported that the instruction manual can be hard to read

Get the Duluth Forge ventless gas fireplace insert at Lowe’s, Tractor Supply Co., or The Home Depot.

Best Bang For the Buck

Pleasant Hearth Zero-Clearance Gas Fireplace Insert

Those who want an affordable fireplace insert with the added luxury of customization will want to choose a gas firebox without gas logs. We suggest the Pleasant Hearth zero-clearance gas fireplace insert. This pick is just the gas firebox, so shoppers can choose their own gas fireplace logs or a different filter material (like glass) to make the hearth their own.

This ventless gas fireplace has zero-clearance installation options, so putting it into the hearth shouldn’t be a problem. This pick also has a fire screen for safety in homes with children or pets. Finally, this unit comes in multiple sizes to fit most fireplace hearths and can be used with natural gas or propane.

Product Specs

• BTUs: N/A
• Vent type: Vent-free
• Efficiency rating: Unlisted

Pros

• Zero-clearance installation; can be installed with a mantel or elsewhere for a unique look
• Built-in fire screen to prevent burns and flying debris; suitable for homes with children and pets
• Insert can be used with either natural gas or propane
• Comes in multiple sizes to fit most hearths: 32 inches, 36 inches, and 42 inches

Cons

• Gas logs for fireplace insert are sold separately; may be pricey depending on the brand chosen
• Decorative brick insert depicted in some retailers’ images is not included with purchase

Get the Pleasant Hearth gas fireplace insert at Lowe’s, Amazon (42-inch only), Tractor Supply Co., or The Home Depot.

Best Flexibility

ProCom Universal Ventless Firebox

For those who need a lot of versatility in their insert, the ProCom universal ventless firebox is worth a look. This top pick comes in 32-inch and 36-inch sizes and features unique airflow technology that can accept 18-inch to 24-inch gas log sets. This zero -clearance firebox also comes with versatile installation and can be placed against or recessed into a cabinet mantel or custom hearth. As for its power, this unit can emit a maximum output of 26,000 BTUs, which means it can heat spaces of up to 1,350 square feet.

Plus, this option comes with a draw screen and hood for added convenience and runs on either natural gas or propane. It also comes with a very slim profile for installing in both large and small places and has a decorative brick liner to add a classic look.

Product Specs

• BTUs: 26,000
• Vent type: Ventless
• Efficiency rating: Not listed

Pros

• Comes in 2 sizes and has a slim profile for installing in both small and large spaces
• Can be used with 18- to 24-inch gas log sets for a customizable hearth
• Versatile installation; can be placed against or recessed into cabinet mantels or custom hearths
• Comes with a draw screen, hood, dual-fuel capability, and a decorative brick liner

Cons

• May not be as durable as some comparable options on the market

Get the ProCom gas fireplace insert at Amazon, The Home Depot, or Wayfair.

Best Direct Vent

Empire Tahoe Deluxe Direct-Vent Millivolt Fireplace

The Empire Tahoe gas fireplace insert is another quality model from a company renowned for reliability. The 20,000 BTU output is sufficient for 1,000 square feet of space, and the millivolt ignition gives near-instantaneous heat. Efficiency of 83 percent is comparatively high for a direct vent insert. This model runs on natural gas, and a propane version is also available.

At 16 inches deep, the Empire Tahoe is particularly suited to shallow fireplace openings. It can vent from the top or the back. Remote control is an option, but at an extra cost. To maximize safety it is also necessary to buy a screen or door set. Some may find it frustrating that these are not included.

Product Specs

• BTUs: 20,000
• Vent type: Direct vent
• Efficiency rating: 83 percent

Pros

• Renowned reliability for a direct-vent insert; has an 83 percent efficiency rating
• Top or rear vent options for added convenience depending on user preference
• Propane model also available for added versatility if natural gas isn’t ideal

Cons

• Screen or door set required at extra cost; may not be safe for children and pets if used without doors

Get the Empire Tahoe gas fireplace insert at Amazon.

Most Versatile

Ashley Hearth Products 34,000 BTU Vent-Free Firebox

Ashley Hearth Products is another highly regarded manufacturer with a range of electric and gas models. This powerful 34,000 BTU model benefits from being vent-free and as such has an efficiency rating of 99 percent. It’s something of a surprise then that the quoted coverage area is 1,200 square feet, which is less than might be expected.

The outstanding feature of this Ashley Hearth model is its flexibility in terms of installation. As standard, it is intended to be used with a surround as a traditional gas fireplace with a mantel. However, with the proper fitting kit, it can be used as an insert. What’s more, there is also a leg set, enabling it to be used as a stand-alone stove. A thermostat can be fitted but is not included.

Product Specs

• BTUs: 34,000
• Vent type: Vent-free
• Efficiency rating: 99 percent

Pros

• Impressive output and efficiency; 99 percent efficiency rating and 34,000-BTU output
• Versatile installation options; can be a stand-alone stove or an insert
• Natural gas or propane can be used for added convenience and versatility

Cons

• Insert kit or leg set may carry an extra charge

Get the Ashley Hearth Products gas fireplace insert at Lowe’s, Tractor Supply Co., The Home Depot, or Wayfair.

Best Log Set

Natural Glo Large Fireplace Logs

Praised for their authentic look as well as their safety, the Natural Glo large fireplace logs emit no harmful fumes in even the hottest of heat outputs. This option is incredibly versatile and can be placed in most fireplaces. All 10 of the ceramic fiber logs in this set can be separated and rearranged to get the exact look desired. Each ranges from 10 to 15 inches long. This top pick also won awards for its look and value in 2021 and 2022.

Product Specs

• BTUs: N/A
• Vent type: N/A
• Efficiency rating: N/A

Pros

• Authentic look provides a warm glow; each log can be arranged as desired
• Each log ranges from 10 to 15 inches long to fit in most fireplaces
• Award-winning product; made with durable and long-lasting ceramic fibers

Cons

• No grate included; may need to be purchased separately

Get the Natural Glo fireplace logs at Amazon.

Also Consider

Montigo 30FID Illume Contemporary Direct-Vent Insert

The Montigo 30FID Illume is a stylish gas insert that would perhaps best suit contemporary decor, but thanks to vertical or horizontal venting, it can be used to replace an existing open fireplace if required. Output is 24,000 BTU. Efficiency varies slightly: 77.6 percent if natural gas is chosen and 79 percent for propane. That’s lower than vent-free models but competitive for a vented gas fireplace.

The included log set with its hot ember effect is particularly realistic. Adjustable flames can be set by remote control, and LED accent lighting enhances the real fire effect. An integrated door screen is fitted for safety. A blower is available, but it costs extra.

Product Specs

• BTUs: 24,000
• Vent type: Direct vent
• Efficiency rating: Natural gas 77.6 percent; propane 79 percent

Pros

• Impressively realistic log appearance provides cozy ambience while in use
• Vertical or horizontal venting options available for a