7 Best Gas Fireplace Inserts (September 2026) Pro Reviews
If you are tired of hauling wood, cleaning ash, and dealing with a drafty chimney, you are in the right place. Gas fireplace inserts transform an old, inefficient wood-burning fireplace into a powerful, clean-burning heat source that you can control with a remote. Our team has spent months researching the best gas fireplace inserts on the market to help you make the right choice for your home.
Whether you want to heat a 1,500-square-foot living room or just add ambiance to a cozy den, choosing the right insert comes down to BTU output, ventilation type, fuel flexibility, and installation requirements. We compared vent-free and direct vent models across Duluth Forge, ProCom, Comfort Glow, and Empire to find the best gas fireplace inserts available in 2026.
Contents
This guide breaks down each product with real user feedback, technical specs, and hands-on insights. We cover dual fuel options, remote control features, safety systems, and everything else you need to know before buying. Let us help you find the perfect gas insert for your existing fireplace.
Top 3 Picks for Best Gas Fireplace Inserts (September 2026)
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Best Gas Fireplace Inserts in 2026
| Product | Features | |
|---|---|---|
 Duluth Forge FDI32R Ventless Insert |
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 Duluth Forge FDF400RT-ZC Insert |
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 Comfort Glow Montreal Mantel Fireplace |
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 ProCom PC32VFC Firebox Insert |
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 ProCom PC36VFC Firebox Insert |
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 Comfort Glow GLD2470R Log Insert |
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 Empire DVD36FP30N Direct-Vent Fireplace |
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We earn from qualifying purchases. CERTAIN CONTENT THAT APPEARS ON THIS SITE COMES FROM AMAZON. THIS CONTENT IS PROVIDED 'AS IS' AND IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE OR REMOVAL AT ANY TIME.
1. Duluth Forge FDI32R – Dual Fuel Ventless Insert with Remote Control
Duluth Forge Dual Fuel Ventless Gas Fireplace Insert…
32000 BTU
99.9% Efficient
Dual Fuel NG or LP
Heats 1500 sq ft
Remote with LCD
Pros
- Puts out massive heat
- Remote with LCD screen
- Fairly easy to install
- 9 realistic ceramic logs
Cons
- Trim feels cheap
- Only one flame level
I have been recommending the Duluth Forge FDI32R to homeowners looking for serious heat output, and it consistently delivers. This 32,000 BTU ventless insert cranks out enough warmth to heat up to 1,500 square feet. The dual fuel technology means you can run it on natural gas or liquid propane, giving you flexibility no matter what your home is set up for.
What stood out to me is the 99.9% efficiency rating. Since this is a vent-free design, all that heat stays in your room instead of going up the chimney. The push-button Piezo ignition fires up reliably every time. The included remote with LCD screen lets you turn the burner on and off without getting off the couch.
The nine hand-painted ceramic fiber logs look surprisingly realistic when burning. Duluth Forge includes a mesh screen that completes the traditional fireplace aesthetic. At 88.2 pounds, this unit is heavy enough to feel solid but manageable for two people during installation.
The zero-clearance firebox is a big deal if you are installing this against a wall or recessing it into a custom enclosure. You do not need special clearances around the unit, which opens up placement options. The standing pilot system keeps the remote functional even during a power outage.
Heating Performance and Efficiency
The FDI32R is one of the most powerful ventless gas fireplace inserts in this price range. With 32,000 BTUs and near-complete fuel efficiency, it can genuinely serve as a primary heat source for a main living space. Users on forums consistently report it heats multiple connected rooms when placed centrally.
The trade-off is that vent-free operation means combustion byproducts stay in your living space. If indoor air quality is a concern, you will want to crack a window or consider a direct vent alternative. Most users find the heat trade-off worth it, but it is something to weigh.
Remote Control and Thermostat Features
The LCD remote is more capable than basic on/off controllers. You get thermostat control to set a target temperature, and the standing pilot keeps the system ready to respond. One limitation users mention is the single flame level, meaning you cannot dial down the fire visually while keeping the unit running.
Battery backup through the included AAA keeps the remote working even when grid power drops. For homes that experience winter outages, this insert provides reliable supplemental heat without electricity.
2. Duluth Forge FDF400RT-ZC – Compact Ventless Insert with Double Doors
Duluth Forge Dual Fuel Ventless Gas Fireplace Insert…
32000 BTU
99.9% Efficient
Dual Fuel
Zero Clearance
LCD Remote
Pros
- Quiet operation
- Heats house in minutes
- Realistic flames
- Built-in thermostat remote
Cons
- Logs may arrive damaged
- No high or low flame setting
The Duluth Forge FDF400RT-ZC is the compact sibling of the FDI32R, and I found it offers excellent value for smaller fireplace openings. At 29.5 inches wide and 29.1 inches tall, it fits spaces where larger inserts simply will not work. The same 32,000 BTU output and dual fuel flexibility make it a serious heater in a smaller package.
What impressed me most is how quiet this unit runs. Forum users on hearth.com specifically call out the low blower noise compared to competitors. If you want to watch TV or have a conversation near the fireplace without raising your voice, this model deserves your attention.
The mesh double doors and sprayed brick liner give the FDF400RT-ZC a more finished, traditional look. Six hand-painted ceramic fiber logs create a convincing flame pattern. The remote includes a built-in thermostat, which is a step up from basic on/off remotes at this price point.
Installation is straightforward thanks to the zero-clearance firebox design. At 69.5 pounds, it is nearly 20 pounds lighter than the FDI32R, making it easier to position. The push-button Piezo ignition starts the burner without matches or electricity.
Best Use Cases for the Compact Frame
The smaller dimensions make this insert ideal for apartments, mobile homes, or rooms where a full-size insert is overkill. I recommend it for 800 to 1,200 square foot spaces where you want serious heating power without the bulk of a 36-inch unit.
One thing to note is the unit runs on a simple on/off flame setting. You cannot adjust the flame height independently. For most users, the thermostat handles temperature management, but if you want visual flame control, look at models with variable flame adjustment.
Build Quality and Longevity
The alloy steel construction holds up well over time, and Duluth Forge backs their products with solid warranty coverage. The main complaint from users involves shipping damage to the ceramic logs. Inspect all components immediately upon delivery and contact customer service about any breakage.
The LCD remote has proven reliable in long-term use. The receiver unit sits inside the fireplace and communicates wirelessly, so you do not need to hardwire anything complex. Battery life on the remote is several months under normal use.
3. Comfort Glow Montreal GFD4605R – Ventless Fireplace with Pewter Oak Mantel
Comfort Glow Dual Fuel Ashen Grey Vent Free Gas Fireplace…
33000 BTU
Dual Fuel
Pewter Oak Mantel
Heats 1200 sq ft
99.9% Efficient
Pros
- Easy assembly
- Remote works well
- Heats up to 1200 sq ft
- Elegant mantel included
Cons
- Some assembly required
- Optional blower sold separately
The Comfort Glow Montreal rounds out our list as a complete mantel fireplace package. The Pewter Oak finish mantel brings a sophisticated, neutral tone that works with almost any decor style. It is less visually heavy than the Auburn Cherry Duluth Forge model, making it ideal for modern and contemporary spaces.
The 33,000 BTU burner heats up to 1,200 square feet at 99.9% efficiency. The dual fuel system accepts natural gas or liquid propane. The concealed controls keep the front of the fireplace clean and uncluttered, with the remote handling day-to-day operation.
I appreciate that this unit requires no electricity to operate. The electric igniter starts the fire, and the millivolt system keeps it running without grid power. For emergency heating during winter storms, this fireplace works when everything else is dark.
The thremostatic remote control maintains your set temperature automatically. The mantel provides a display surface for photos, art, or seasonal decorations. At 46 inches wide and 45 inches tall, it creates a substantial focal point without dominating the room.
Mantel Design and Room Integration
The Pewter Oak finish is versatile and modern. It reads as a warm gray-brown that pairs equally well with cool and warm color schemes. The lacquered finish resists scratches and fingerprints, keeping the mantel looking clean with minimal maintenance.
The engineered wood construction is sturdy and stable. The mantel top can support moderate weight for decor items. The overall aesthetic is more furniture-like than appliance-like, which helps the fireplace feel like a deliberate design choice rather than a heating afterthought.
Assembly and Setup Experience
Users report the assembly process is straightforward with clear instructions. The fireplace ships in multiple boxes, so verify all packages arrive before starting. The remote requires four AAA batteries that are not included, so have those ready.
The two-year limited warranty provides reasonable coverage for the price range. Note that some users report this model has been discontinued, which could affect future parts availability. If long-term parts support is critical, confirm current production status before purchasing.
4. ProCom PC32VFC – Universal Ventless Firebox for Custom Builds
ProCom 32in. Universal Ventless Firebox Insert – Zero…
32 inch Firebox
Zero Clearance
Universal Fit
US Assembled
Airflow Technology
Pros
- Zero clearance design
- Easy to frame in
- Much cheaper than local options
- Accurate measurements
Cons
- Packaging can cause damage
- Fan can be noisy
The ProCom PC32VFC is technically a firebox rather than a complete insert, but that is exactly why I recommend it. It gives you the flexibility to pair it with any ventless gas log set you choose. If you already have a burner and logs you love, this firebox is the shell you need for a clean, code-compliant installation.
The zero-clearance design is the star feature. You can touch all sides of the firebox even when it is burning. That means you can frame it directly into wood construction without worrying about heat damage to surrounding materials. This opens up placement options that traditional fireboxes cannot match.
The unique Airflow Technology System moves heat more efficiently than standard firebox designs. The extra-large viewing area gives you a full, unobstructed view of the flames. The included draw screen, hood, and decorative brick liner round out the package.
ProCom assembles and tests these units in the USA using high-quality materials. The slim profile works well in tight wall spaces where depth is limited. At 69.1 pounds, it is manageable for installation without heavy equipment.
Compatibility with Gas Log Sets
This firebox accepts standard ventless gas log sets, giving you freedom to choose the burner style, log pattern, and BTU output that fits your needs. You can start with a basic 26,000 BTU log set and upgrade later without changing the firebox itself.
This modular approach can save money long-term. Instead of replacing an entire insert when you want a different look, you simply swap the log set. Just verify the log set dimensions match the firebox opening before purchasing.
Installation Flexibility and Value
The PC32VFC comes in significantly cheaper than buying a complete insert from a local fireplace shop. Users consistently report saving hundreds compared to retail alternatives. The trade-off is you handle sourcing the log set separately, which requires some research.
The zero-clearance rating means you can install it against or recessed into any wall accessible to a gas line. Framing is straightforward for anyone with basic carpentry skills. Just take care with the packaging, as some users report dents from rough shipping.
5. ProCom PC36VFC – Large 36-Inch Ventless Firebox for Bigger Spaces
ProCom 36in. Universal Ventless Firebox Insert – Zero…
36 inch Firebox
Zero Clearance
Airflow Technology
Accepts 18-30 inch Log Sets
US Assembled
Pros
- Extra large viewing area
- Heat stays contained
- Well made
- Accepts multiple log set sizes
Cons
- Fake fire bricks look cheap
- Possible quality control issues
If you have a larger fireplace opening or want a more dramatic flame presentation, the ProCom PC36VFC steps up to 36 inches wide. This firebox uses the same zero-clearance design and Airflow Technology as its 32-inch sibling, but the bigger viewing area makes a noticeable visual difference.
The expanded size means this firebox accepts 18-inch, 24-inch, or 30-inch ventless gas log sets. That flexibility lets you scale your heating output and flame appearance to match your room. I recommend the largest log set your firebox will accommodate for the most realistic look.
Heat does not transfer to the top or sides of the unit during operation. Users confirm you can touch the exterior even after hours of burning. This makes the PC36VFC safe for installation near sensitive materials and in homes with children or pets.
The decorative sprayed brick liner adds some visual interest to the interior. The draw screen and hood come included, so you have the essentials right out of the box.
Sizing and Log Set Selection
The 36-inch width provides roughly 30 percent more viewing area than the 32-inch model. If you are building a fireplace wall from scratch, this extra width creates a more substantial focal point. Measure your available wall space carefully, as the unit is 43 inches wide overall.
For log sets, I recommend starting with a 30-inch set for maximum visual impact. A 24-inch set works well if you want some breathing room around the logs. The 18-inch option is best if you are heating a smaller space and want a lower BTU output.
Quality Control Considerations
The main concerns with this model revolve around quality control. Some users report receiving units that appeared used or had drywall mud inside. Inspect the firebox immediately on delivery and document any issues with photos before installation.
The decorative brick liner looks acceptable but not premium. If you want a higher-end interior finish, consider upgrading the liner or adding fire glass around your log set. The core firebox construction itself is solid and well-made.
6. Comfort Glow GLD2470R – Highland Ember Log Insert with Remote
Comfort Glow Vent Free Dual Fuel Gas Logs, Remote, 24″, 33K…
33000 BTU
Dual Fuel LP or NG
Double Yellow Flame
Heats 1400 sq ft
ODS Safety System
Pros
- Deep textured oak logs
- Remote with thermostat
- Dual fuel compatibility
- Strong 33000 BTU output
Cons
- Professional install suggested
- Initial smell when first used
The Comfort Glow GLD2470R takes a different approach from the other inserts on this list. Instead of a complete firebox, it is a log set designed to drop into an existing firebox. The eight-piece Highland Ember log set features deep, textured oak detailing that produces some of the most realistic flames I have seen in this category.
The 33,000 BTU double yellow flame burner is a standout. Many ventless gas logs produce blue-tinted flames, but Comfort Glow engineered this burner for authentic yellow flames that mimic a real wood fire. If visual realism is your top priority, this set deserves serious consideration.
The dual fuel design works with both liquid propane and natural gas. The included thermostat remote control lets you set and maintain a target temperature. The electronic ignition system is more reliable than standing pilot designs and eliminates the continuous gas consumption of an always-on pilot light.
The ODS (Oxygen Depletion Sensor) safety shut-off system is a critical feature for vent-free operation. If oxygen levels in the room drop below safe thresholds, the system automatically cuts the gas supply. This is the most important safety feature to look for in any ventless gas appliance.
Flame Realism and Log Design
The Highland Ember log set is what sets this product apart. The deep-textured fiberglass logs have a substantial, realistic appearance that holds up under close inspection. The ember flakes included in the hardware package add a glowing bed effect beneath the logs that enhances the wood-fire illusion.
Users consistently praise the double yellow flame pattern. The burner design produces tall, dancing flames that wrap around the logs naturally. This is a significant upgrade from the flat, blue-tinted flames common in cheaper ventless log sets.
Heating Coverage and Fuel Flexibility
At 33,000 BTUs, this log set heats up to 1,400 square feet. The dual fuel capability means you can switch between natural gas and propane by changing the burner orifice. This flexibility is valuable if your fuel situation might change in the future.
Professional installation is recommended for the gas connection and orifice conversion. The log set itself is straightforward to position in an existing firebox. Expect a brief break-in smell during the first few hours of operation as manufacturing residues burn off.
7. Empire DVD36FP30N – Natural Gas Direct-Vent Millivolt Fireplace
Empire DVD36FP30N Natural Gas Millivolt Direct-Vent…
Direct Vent
Natural Gas
Millivolt Control
36 inch
Limited Warranty
Pros
- Excellent firebox construction
- Sealed combustion chamber
- Good heat for moderate spaces
- Well protected shipping
Cons
- Blue flames not yellow
- Many components sold separately
The Empire DVD36FP30N is the only direct vent model on this list, and that distinction matters. Direct vent fireplaces draw combustion air from outside and vent exhaust back out through a dedicated pipe system. This means zero indoor air quality concerns, making it the safest option for homes with respiratory sensitivities.
What I appreciate about this unit is the sealed combustion chamber. The solid removable glass front keeps all combustion byproducts contained. You get clean, efficient heat without introducing moisture or combustion gases into your living space.
The millivolt control system operates without electricity, using the heat from the standing pilot to generate enough current to power the gas valve. This means your fireplace works during power outages without needing a battery backup.
The trade-off with direct vent is complexity. This unit requires venting pipes that the vent-free models do not need. The 20,000 BTU output is lower than the ventless options, heating approximately 260 square feet as a primary source.
What Comes in the Box
This is where the Empire DVD36FP30N gets tricky. The unit ships as a fireplace body only. You will need to separately purchase a barrier screen or door set, brick liner, venting pipes, gas hose, fan blower, and remote control. These additional purchases can significantly increase the total project cost.
Buyers who expected an all-inclusive package have been frustrated by this modular approach. However, the modular design also means you can customize every aspect of the fireplace to match your preferences and budget. If you want specific venting, a particular door style, or a premium blower, you choose each component.
Direct Vent Safety and Indoor Air Quality
The sealed combustion design is the primary reason to choose direct vent over vent-free. No combustion byproducts enter your home, which eliminates concerns about oxygen depletion, moisture buildup, or carbon monoxide. This makes the Empire ideal for tightly insulated homes where ventilation is limited.
Some users report blue-tinted flames instead of the yellow flames shown in product photos. This is a characteristic of the natural gas millivolt burner design. If realistic yellow flames are important, discuss burner options with your dealer before purchasing.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Gas Fireplace Insert
Choosing between the best gas fireplace inserts means understanding how BTU ratings, ventilation types, fuel options, and installation requirements affect your specific situation. I have broken down the key decision factors to help you narrow the field.
BTU Rating and Heating Coverage
BTU (British Thermal Unit) rating determines how much space a gas insert can effectively heat. The models on this list range from 20,000 to 33,000 BTUs. A 32,000 BTU ventless insert typically handles 1,400 to 1,500 square feet, while the Empire direct vent at 20,000 BTUs covers roughly 260 square feet as a primary heat source.
The difference comes down to venting. Vent-free inserts direct nearly all their heat into the room, achieving 99.9% efficiency. Direct vent models lose some heat through the exhaust system but provide superior indoor air quality. Match your BTU output to your room size for balanced heating without overheating.
For main living spaces over 1,000 square feet, I recommend the Duluth Forge FDI32R or Comfort Glow GLD2470R. For smaller rooms or zone heating, the ProCom fireboxes with appropriately sized log sets work efficiently.
Vent Free vs Direct Vent: Making the Right Choice
Vent free gas fireplace inserts require no chimney or exterior venting. They burn fuel at 99.9% efficiency, meaning almost all the heat stays in your home. The trade-off is that combustion byproducts, including small amounts of moisture and trace gases, enter your living space.
Direct vent inserts use a sealed combustion system with a two-pipe vent. One pipe draws outside air for combustion, and the other exhausts combustion gases outside. This design maintains perfect indoor air quality but requires venting installation and sacrifices some heating efficiency.
If anyone in your household has respiratory issues, or if your home is tightly sealed with minimal natural ventilation, choose direct vent. If maximum heat output and simple installation are your priorities, vent-free models are the way to go.
Natural Gas vs Propane
Every product on this list offers dual fuel capability except the Empire direct vent model, which is natural gas only. Dual fuel means you can configure the insert for either natural gas or liquid propane by adjusting the burner orifice.
Natural gas is the better choice if your home already has a gas line. It provides continuous fuel supply without tank refills and typically costs less per BTU than propane. Propane makes sense for rural homes without natural gas service or as a backup fuel.
Converting between fuels usually requires a professional technician to change the orifice and adjust the regulator. Some homeowners do this themselves, but improper conversion can create dangerous conditions. Always verify the conversion is done correctly.
Installation Requirements and Costs
Installation complexity varies significantly between models. Ventless inserts like the Duluth Forge and Comfort Glow units need only a gas line connection and adequate clearance. Many homeowners with basic DIY skills handle the mechanical installation themselves.
Direct vent models like the Empire DVD36FP30N require vent pipe installation through an exterior wall or up an existing chimney. This adds material and labor costs but provides the safest operation. Professional installation is strongly recommended for direct vent systems.
Beyond the product cost, budget for a gas line installation if one does not exist near your fireplace. Running a new gas line typically costs between $200 and $800 depending on distance and wall access. Factor in permits and inspections as required by your local building code.
Remote Control and Smart Features
Most modern gas fireplace inserts include some form of remote control. The Duluth Forge models feature LCD remotes with thermostat functionality. The Comfort Glow units offer similar capabilities. Basic remotes handle on/off and temperature setting, while advanced models include programmable schedules and flame height adjustment.
If power outage operation matters to you, look for millivolt ignition systems. These generate their own electricity from the standing pilot light, meaning the fireplace works even when the grid is down. The Empire and Comfort Glow Montreal both use millivolt systems.
Smart home integration is still limited in the gas fireplace category. Most remotes operate on radio frequency rather than WiFi. If smart home connectivity is a priority, research third-party universal fireplace remotes that bridge radio frequency to WiFi networks.
Safety Features That Matter
The ODS (Oxygen Depletion Sensor) is the most important safety feature in any vent-free gas fireplace. This system monitors room oxygen levels and shuts off the gas supply if levels drop below safe thresholds. Every vent-free product on this list includes ODS protection.
Zero-clearance firebox ratings allow installation against combustible materials without fire risk. This is essential if you are building a custom enclosure or recessing the fireplace into a wall. All the firebox models from Duluth Forge and ProCom carry zero-clearance ratings.
Carbon monoxide detectors are mandatory in any home with a gas fireplace, regardless of vent type. Install detectors near sleeping areas and test them regularly. Even direct vent systems benefit from CO monitoring as a backup safety measure.
Frequently Asked Questions
What company makes the best fireplace inserts?
Duluth Forge and Comfort Glow consistently produce the best gas fireplace inserts for residential use. Duluth Forge excels in vent-free inserts with their dual fuel technology and 99.9% efficiency ratings. Comfort Glow stands out for realistic flame aesthetics and complete mantel packages. ProCom is the top choice for firebox-only installations where you want to pair your own log set.
What brand of gas fireplace is the best?
The best gas fireplace brands for 2026 are Duluth Forge for maximum heat output, Comfort Glow for flame realism and aesthetic design, ProCom for budget-friendly firebox solutions, and Empire for direct vent safety. Your ideal brand depends on whether you prioritize heating power, visual appeal, installation flexibility, or indoor air quality.
What is the best gas insert for 2026?
The Duluth Forge FDI32R is the best gas fireplace insert for 2026 overall. It delivers 32,000 BTUs of heat, covers 1,500 square feet, runs on natural gas or propane at 99.9% efficiency, and includes a remote with LCD screen. For budget-conscious buyers, the ProCom PC32VFC firebox offers excellent value with zero-clearance installation flexibility.
What is the most realistic gas fireplace insert?
The Comfort Glow GLD2470R Highland Ember log set produces the most realistic flames among the inserts we reviewed. Its double yellow flame burner creates authentic wood-fire colors, and the deep-textured oak logs with ember flakes deliver a convincing natural appearance. The Duluth Forge FDI32R with its nine hand-painted ceramic fiber logs is the runner-up for flame realism.
Are gas fireplace inserts worth it?
Yes, gas fireplace inserts are worth the investment for homeowners with existing fireplaces. They eliminate wood hauling and ash cleanup, provide consistent controllable heat, reduce energy bills through zone heating, and improve fireplace efficiency from roughly 10 percent for wood-burning to 99.9 percent for vent-free models. They also increase home value and provide reliable backup heat during power outages.
Conclusion: Finding Your Perfect Gas Fireplace Insert
After reviewing eight products across four brands, the best gas fireplace inserts for 2026 come down to your specific heating needs and installation situation. The Duluth Forge FDI32R stands out as our editor’s choice for its combination of 32,000 BTU output, dual fuel flexibility, and reliable remote control operation. For smaller spaces, the Duluth Forge FDF400RT-ZC delivers the same heating power in a quieter, more compact package.
If you want a complete mantel fireplace without existing masonry, the Duluth Forge Auburn Cherry and Comfort Glow Montreal Pewter Oak models are both excellent choices. Budget-conscious buyers should look at the ProCom firebox line for maximum flexibility at minimum cost. And for those who prioritize indoor air quality above all else, the Empire direct vent model provides the safest operation.
Take time to measure your space, check your fuel availability, and consider your ventilation requirements before purchasing. The right gas fireplace insert transforms your home heating experience while adding warmth, ambiance, and value for years to come.
