Gel fireplaces are categorized as ventless fireplaces for the obvious reason that they do not have a flue or chimney like traditional fireplaces.
It is far more advanced compared to fireplaces fueled by wood, natural gas or propane.
This type of fireplace is fueled by isopropyl or ethanol alcohol engineered to burn longer, smokeless and fumeless.
And since this technology is fairly revolutionary, it is normal for consumers to ask, "Is it safe?" According to internal testing and studies of Real Flame, a fuel gel company, revealed that gel-based fireplaces and its peripherals are safe for indoor and outdoor use.
The technology has also passed all safety standard tests of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
OSHA and EPA confirmed that this technology does not cause any adverse effect on air quality.
Other advantages of the technology are its more controlled heating, proper insulation, and suitability with any flooring type.
Now let's take a look at how this ventless gel fireplace compare in safety with other types of fireplace.
Gel vs.
Log-Fueled Fireplace In terms of safety, gel-based fireplaces outdo wood fireplaces.
Wood-burning fireplaces pose risks of popping or floating hot embers.
It also produces harmful gases such as carbon monoxides, nitrogen dioxides and sulfur dioxides.
Secondly, wood fireplaces need yearly inspection and maintenance.
However, gel furnaces don't produce those gases and maintenance is quick and easy.
Gel vs.
Gas Fireplace Gel furnaces also defeat gas fireplaces in terms of safety.
Gas log fireplaces produce particle deposits that may clog vents and flues.
Gas line fittings in gas fireplaces may loosen or leak.
Leaks in chimneys and furnaces may send carbon monoxide into the house.
And since carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless, and toxic gas detecting it is highly impossible.
When it does leak into your home, you wouldn't know until it asphyxiates or worse kills someone in the family.
Gas fireplaces are either vented or ventless.
Ventless gas fireplaces are highly efficient in providing heating but may not be appropriate for some airtight homes especially when undetected leakage happens.
Gel vs.
Electric Fireplace They are said to be both alternatives to other types of furnaces as they are fueled by clean sources of energy.
This means that they do not produce harmful gases.
Their safety levels are seemingly equal.
There is just a minimal difference between the two.
An electric fireplace shows a visual display of flaming logs while the other is a real flame producing home fixture.
Gel fireplaces need quality gel canisters to burn good which makes selection of gel crucial.
It is highly portable compared to electric fireplaces, which must be near wall outlets.