Vented always look better and there's virtually zero odor, not a lot of heat is kept in the room as it obviously goes right up the chimney, it does warm objects or people with radiant heat so you do get some heat benefit.

Vent Free
-Great heat
-99% efficient
-Odor always present
-Terrible for people with allergies or respiratory issues

Vented
-Minimal heat
-Very realistic appearance

-No odor[/quote]

I beg to differ on the "minimal heat" statement.

We retrofitted a fireplace w/ a natural gas, remote controlled, thermostat control vented unit several years ago. Basically an L-shaped house, so we can turn off central heat, use the gas in the most used back room, and with the blower-assisted factor, my wifey can be as toasty ass needed from the forced air factor.

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RayGovett
Hughson CA
Be Prepared-- Strike Swiftly -- Who Dares Wins- Without warning-"it will be hard. I can do it"