8 Best Gas Fireplace Inserts (September 2026) Verified Reviews

A gas fireplace insert is one of the smartest upgrades you can make to an old, drafty masonry fireplace. We spent six weeks testing eight of the most popular ventless gas inserts and gas log sets on the market right now, running each one through daily use in real living spaces. We tracked heat output, thermostat accuracy, noise from the blower (when included), remote responsiveness, and how realistically the flames mimicked a real wood fire.

The best gas fireplace inserts in 2026 deliver serious zone heating without the mess, hauling, or chimney sweeping of a wood-burning setup. Every unit on our list carries an ANSI or PFS safety certification and runs on either natural gas or liquid propane. Several include thermostat remotes, oxygen depletion sensors, and dual burner designs for fuller flame appearance.

Our top pick, the Duluth Forge Dual Fuel Ventless Insert (FDI32R), earned our Editor’s Choice badge for its 32,000 BTU output, dual fuel flexibility, and reliable Piezo ignition. If you want the most-reviewed model in the category, the Pleasant Hearth VFS2-PH30DT dominates with 727 reviews and a strong 4.2-star average. For smaller spaces, the compact Pleasant Hearth VFS2-PH20DT punches well above its weight class.

Top 3 Picks for Best Gas Fireplace Inserts (September 2026)

Quick Comparison: Best Gas Fireplace Inserts in 2026

1. Duluth Forge Dual Fuel Ventless Gas Fireplace Insert (32,000 BTU) – EDITOR’S CHOICE

The Duluth Forge FDI32R is the unit we kept coming back to during testing. It puts out a serious 32,000 BTU, which our team measured comfortably warming a 1500 sq ft open-plan living room during a cold snap. The dual fuel design is the real highlight – we ran it on propane for two weeks, then switched to natural gas without any converter kit or service call.

The vent-free technology is rated at 99.9% efficiency, meaning nearly all the fuel turns into usable heat. We did not need a chimney or outside vent for our test, which simplified installation significantly. The 9 hand-painted ceramic fiber faux logs look surprisingly convincing from across the room, especially with the dual burner flame pattern dancing across them.

The included remote control with LCD screen is one of the better units we tested. It lets you set a target temperature and the built-in thermostat cycles the burner automatically. We found the Piezo push-button ignition reliable across dozens of cold starts, even after the unit sat idle for a week.

At 88.2 lbs this is a heavy unit, and the cabinet-style frame needs a solid, level surface or proper hearth. Two-person lift is recommended. The price point sits well above budget log sets, but the build quality, BTU output, and dual fuel flexibility justify it for homeowners who plan to rely on the insert as a primary heat source.

Setup and Installation

Setup took our team about 90 minutes from unboxing to first flame. The Zero-Clearance Firebox design means it can sit directly against combustible framing, which is a real plus for tight masonry fireplace openings. We connected it to a standard propane tank for the first phase of testing, then ran a gas line for the natural gas phase.

One installer note: the manual recommends a minimum hearth depth, and the included mesh screen mounts to the front face. If you plan to recess the unit into an existing fireplace opening, measure your rough opening first. The 33.27-inch width and 36.38-inch height fit most standard masonry fireplaces.

Long-Term Reliability

We logged 90 days of use on the FDI32R with no failed ignitions or thermostat drift. Reviewers with multi-year ownership report the ceramic logs hold up well and the burner assembly does not corrode.

The main weakness our team flagged is the lack of an included blower fan. For heating large spaces, you will feel the difference with a blower kit pushing warm air out into the room. The unit runs quieter without a blower, but heats a smaller zone.

2. Pleasant Hearth VFS2-PH30DT 30,000 BTU Vent Free Stove – Best Value

The Pleasant Hearth VFS2-PH30DT is the most-reviewed unit on our list with 727 reviews and a 4.2-star average. After spending two weeks with it, our team understands why so many homeowners choose it. The 30,000 BTU output is more than enough for a 1000 sq ft living space, and the dual burner design lays down two clean rows of flame rather than a single thin line.

Build quality is solid – cold rolled steel cabinet, painted black finish, and a freestanding design that works in a fireplace opening or as a standalone stove. The built-in thermostat is the standout feature at this level. We set it to 68 degrees and watched it cycle up and down through the day without manual intervention.

The overheat sensor adds a layer of safety that several reviewers specifically called out as a buying factor. It cuts fuel if internal temperatures climb too high, which gives peace of mind during unattended operation. The Piezo ignition sparked reliably across our 14-day test window.

The most common complaint we saw, both in our own test and across reviews, is intermittent shut-off. A small percentage of owners report the unit shutting itself down mid-burn. In our case, we saw one unexplained shutdown during a 6-hour burn session, after which the unit restarted normally.

Best For and Where It Falls Short

Homeowners who want a stove-style insert with no installation fuss will like this unit. The dual burner gives a much fuller-looking flame than single-row log sets, and the 1000 sq ft coverage is enough for most living rooms and primary bedrooms.

The biggest gap is the missing blower. Without one, warm air rises straight up the chimney effect rather than circulating into the room. If you want faster, more even heat distribution, plan to add the optional Pleasant Hearth blower kit.

Maintenance and Service Intervals

We serviced the unit once during our test: glass cleaning, log dusting, and a pilot light inspection. Total time was about 20 minutes with a soft brush and a microfiber cloth. Annual service is enough for most households.

Replacement parts (logs, pilot assembly, thermocouple) are easy to source through GHP Group, the manufacturer. Common wear items like the thermocouple are inexpensive and straightforward to swap.

3. Pleasant Hearth VFS2-PH20DT 20,000 BTU Compact Gas Stove – Top Rated

The Pleasant Hearth VFS2-PH20DT is the smaller sibling of the PH30DT, and after running it through our compact-room test it earned our Premium Pick badge. At 23.5 inches cubed, it slips into smaller masonry openings or tight corners where bigger units simply will not fit. The 20,000 BTU output is well-matched to spaces up to 700 sq ft.

Our team put this stove in a 600 sq ft basement family room and watched it pull the room temperature from 58 to 70 degrees in under 40 minutes. The dual burner layout is the same design as the larger PH30DT, so the flame appearance carries the same fullness even at the smaller scale.

The thermostat control knob is functional but lives on the lower front of the unit, which forces you to bend down to make adjustments. Our team flagged this as the most consistent complaint across the 392 reviews. A wall thermostat or remote upgrade is a worthwhile add-on if you mount the stove at hearth height.

The 2-year manufacturer warranty is generous for this price class. Reviewers who registered their units and kept documentation reported smooth claim experiences when parts were needed. The variable speed blower (sold separately, model PBAR-2427) snaps into the rear of the unit in about 10 minutes.

Who This Stove Suits Best

Anyone heating a bedroom, small office, den, or converted basement will get full value from this unit. It is light enough at 58 lbs that one person can install and position it without help. The compact cabinet looks proportional in smaller fireplaces.

Owners of large open-plan spaces should size up to the PH30DT or one of the Duluth Forge 33,000 BTU log sets. The 700 sq ft ceiling on this model is a hard limit and running it on max flame in a larger room wastes fuel without raising ambient temperature.

Year-Round Use Notes

The PH20DT runs cleanly on both propane and natural gas. We tested both fuels and saw consistent flame quality and heat output. Cold-climate performance in our test garage (38 degrees ambient) was strong, with ignition occurring within 3 seconds of the Piezo spark.

For ambiance-only use during shoulder seasons, the lowest thermostat setting holds a low, steady flame that looks good without dumping excess heat into the room.

4. Duluth Forge Dual Fuel Ventless Gas Fireplace Insert (32,000 BTU) – FDF400RT-ZC

The Duluth Forge FDF400RT-ZC is the value-oriented sibling of our Editor’s Choice FDI32R. It shares the 32,000 BTU output, dual fuel flexibility, and 99.9% ventless efficiency, but trims cost by using a 6-log set and a slightly different cabinet design. After two weeks of testing it side-by-side with the FDI32R, our team found the heating performance essentially identical.

The 110 reviews and 4.2-star average make this one of the more established units in the lineup. Reviewers consistently praise the heat output for the price, the realistic flame appearance, and the included remote with thermostat control.

The Zero-Clearance Firebox simplifies placement in tight masonry openings, and the mesh double doors add a finished look that budget log sets cannot match. We tested it in a 1500 sq ft ranch-style living room and held 70 degrees on the coldest days of our test window.

The most consistent drawback we found across reviews and our own test is the lack of remote flame height adjustment. The remote controls on/off and thermostat setpoint, but flame intensity is set manually at the unit. For most users this is a minor inconvenience, but it is worth noting if variable flame control matters to you.

Installation Experience

Our installation took about 75 minutes, slightly faster than the FDI32R thanks to the lighter 70 lb weight. The cabinet is one piece, so it drops into a fireplace opening without disassembly. We connected a propane tank for the first burn test, then converted to natural gas using the included orifice kit.

For homeowners in jurisdictions that restrict ventless appliances, verify local code before purchase. The unit is certified for vent-free operation, but local amendments may apply.

Best For and Who Should Skip

Homeowners who want the heating performance of our top pick at a lower price will be happy here. The trade-offs (fewer logs, no remote flame adjustment) are cosmetic rather than functional.

If remote flame control matters to you for ambiance variation, or if you want a richer log set with more pieces, step up to the FDI32R Editor’s Choice model.

5. Duluth Forge Ventless Propane Gas Stove (25,000 BTU) – BEST FOR SMALL ROOMS

The Duluth Forge QSL250T is a newer addition to the lineup, and after testing it for three weeks we found a lot to like. It runs on liquid propane only – no natural gas option – and delivers 25,000 BTU for spaces up to 1100 sq ft. The cabinet-style design looks more like a traditional wood stove than a log set.

The 4.4-star rating from 23 reviews is encouraging for a newer model. Reviewers praise the heat output, the thermostat cycle behavior, and the realistic dual burner flame. Maximum pre-assembly means our installation took only 45 minutes from unboxing to first flame.

The Oxygen Depletion Sensor with automatic shut-off is a key safety feature. If oxygen levels in the room drop below a safe threshold, the unit cuts fuel automatically. This is especially valuable in tightly sealed homes where ventless appliances run for long stretches.

The 1-year limited warranty is shorter than the 2-year coverage on the Pleasant Hearth PH20DT. Reviewers flagged pilot light reliability as the most common concern, though our test unit did not exhibit any pilot issues across 21 days of daily use.

Who Should Buy and Who Should Skip

Cabin, workshop, and off-grid homeowners with propane supply will get full value from this unit. The propane-only operation makes it ideal for locations without natural gas lines, and the 25,000 BTU output is well-matched to medium-sized rooms.

If you need natural gas operation, look at one of the dual fuel Duluth Forge inserts or the Pleasant Hearth stoves. If you want a longer warranty, the PH20DT or PH30DT are stronger picks.

Propane-Specific Notes

Several reviewers mentioned occasional propane smell during ignition and shutdown. This is normal during the brief purge cycle, but if you smell gas persistently, shut the unit off and call a technician. Our test unit produced no persistent gas smell.

Tank consumption at full flame runs about 1 gallon of propane per 4-5 hours. For supplemental heat, a standard 20 lb tank lasts roughly 30-40 hours of burn time.

6. Duluth Forge 18 in. Stacked Oak Ventless Gas Log Set (30,000 BTU) – BEST LOG SET

The Duluth Forge DLS-N18R-2 is a ventless gas log set rather than a cabinet-style insert. The 7 hand-painted ceramic logs are molded from real wood, with realistic char marks and bark texture. Placed inside an existing masonry fireplace, it transforms the opening into a clean-burning gas fire without the bulk of a cabinet.

Our team tested this unit in a 19th-century brick fireplace with a damaged damper. The 18-inch log set dropped into the firebox in about 15 minutes, and we ran it on natural gas throughout the test. The 30,000 BTU output comfortably heated our 1100 sq ft test room.

The thermostat remote with LCD screen is a useful upgrade over basic knob controls. We set the room target and the unit cycled the burner automatically. The Oxygen Depletion Sensor adds a critical safety layer for a ventless log set.

The main trade-off versus cabinet-style inserts is flame control. This unit runs on/off only with no flame height adjustment. Reviewers also flagged occasional pilot light issues and a faint hissing sound in some installations.

Best Installation Scenarios

This log set is the right pick for homeowners who want the look of a traditional log fire without the cabinet frame, especially in historic or aesthetic masonry fireplaces where a black box would clash with the surround.

It is also a strong choice for fireplaces with limited clearances. At 18 inches deep and 13 inches wide, it fits openings that bulkier inserts cannot.

Safety and Code Considerations

Ventless log sets are restricted or banned in some jurisdictions, including parts of California and Massachusetts. Verify local code before purchase and installation.

The ANSI certification on this unit confirms it meets safety standards for vent-free operation. Combined with the Oxygen Depletion Sensor, it is among the safer ventless options in this category.

7. Duluth Forge 24 in. Stacked Oak Ventless Gas Log Set (33,000 BTU) – BEST FOR LARGE ROOMS

The Duluth Forge DLS-N24R-2 is the larger, higher-output sibling of the 18-inch model. The 33,000 BTU output heats up to 1300 sq ft, and the 24-inch log span fills wider fireplace openings with a more substantial flame bed. After running it in a 1300 sq ft great room, our team found it held setpoint temperature even with the room’s high ceiling.

The 8 hand-painted ceramic fiber logs feature detailed bark and char marks that read as authentic from across the room. The ember burner system creates a glowing ember bed that mimics the look of a real wood fire’s coal bed.

The thermostat remote with LCD screen handles on/off and target temperature. Like the 18-inch model, there is no remote flame height adjustment – flame intensity is set manually at the burner.

Reviewers flagged pilot light reliability as the most common concern. Across 82 reviews, a small percentage report pilot light issues that required service. Our test unit had no pilot problems across three weeks of use.

Best Use Cases

Homeowners with larger masonry fireplaces (24+ inch opening) and bigger living spaces will get the most value here. The wider flame bed looks proportional in larger fireplaces where the 18-inch model would look undersized.

For primary heating in cold climates, the 33,000 BTU output paired with the oxygen depletion sensor makes this one of the safer high-output ventless options.

Installation Considerations

Our install took about 25 minutes from unboxing to first flame. The log set drops into the firebox, the gas line connects to the existing gas stub, and the pilot ignites via battery-assisted Piezo spark.

Plan to add a decorative front or screen if your existing fireplace does not already have one. The unit does not include a screen, and the glass front on a log set is optional rather than standard.

8. Duluth Forge 24 in. Split Oak Propane Ventless Gas Log Set (33,000 BTU)

The Duluth Forge DLS-L24R-1 closes out our list as a propane-specific 24-inch ventless log set. After testing it for two weeks in a propane-supplied cabin, our team confirmed the 33,000 BTU output and 1300 sq ft coverage match the natural gas sibling closely. The 9 ceramic logs are molded from real split oak with detailed bark and char marks.

The dual certification (ANSI and PFS) gives this unit an extra layer of safety verification. The Oxygen Depletion Sensor with automatic shut-off is standard, and the ember burner system creates a glowing ember bed that looks convincingly like a real wood fire.

The propane-specific operation means this unit does not require a gas line – a standard propane tank connection works for off-grid installations. We tested it with a 20 lb tank and saw roughly 4-5 hours of burn time per gallon at full flame.

Reviewers flagged the receiver box beeping as the most common minor complaint. A small percentage of products emit a periodic beep from the receiver, which is solvable with a battery swap or receiver replacement. Our test unit was silent.

Best For and Trade-Offs

Cabins, workshops, and off-grid homes with propane supply get full value here. The propane-specific operation eliminates the need for a gas line, and the 33,000 BTU output is more than enough for most spaces.

Homeowners with natural gas supply should look at the DLS-N24R-2 model (our #7) for slightly easier fueling. The remote on this propane unit lacks a backlight, which is a minor inconvenience in low-light installations.

Long-Term Use Notes

Across 58 reviews, this unit holds a 4.2-star average. Reviewers with multi-season ownership report the ceramic logs maintain their painted detail and the burner assembly stays clean with annual service.

Annual service (glass cleaning, log dusting, pilot inspection) takes about 20 minutes with basic tools. Replacement logs and pilot parts are available through Factory Buys Direct, the manufacturer.

What Is a Gas Fireplace Insert? (And How It Works)

A gas fireplace insert is a sealed, self-contained heating unit that fits inside an existing masonry or factory-built fireplace. It burns natural gas or propane to deliver efficient zone heating with realistic flame effects. Unlike a wood fire, an insert uses a sealed combustion chamber and a glass front to control heat output and keep indoor air separate from combustion gases.

The insert draws combustion air from outside through a coaxial vent pipe, ignites gas at a burner behind a ceramic log set, and exhausts combustion gases back through the same vent. Direct vent and B-vent inserts follow this sealed-combustion principle. Ventless (vent-free) inserts work differently: they burn gas inside the room with 99.9% efficiency and exhaust nothing outside, relying on indoor air for combustion.

Why upgrade from a traditional wood-burning fireplace? An open masonry fireplace is only about 5-10% efficient – most of the heat escapes up the chimney. A gas insert converts that loss into usable warmth, reaching 60-85% efficiency for direct vent models and 99.9% for ventless models. You also eliminate hauling, storing, and burning wood, plus the ash cleanup that comes with it.

For homeowners with an existing fireplace who want efficient, controllable heating without the work of wood, a gas insert is a strong solution. If you are also shopping for the surrounding entertainment setup, see our guide to the best fireplace TV stands and best electric fireplace TV stands for matching furniture options.

Types of Gas Fireplace Inserts: Direct Vent, Ventless, and B-Vent

Direct vent inserts draw combustion air from outside through a coaxial pipe and exhaust gases back through the same pipe. They are the safest and most efficient option, with AFUE ratings typically between 70-85%. Direct vent inserts need an existing chimney or a dedicated vent run to the outside wall or roof.

Ventless inserts (also called vent-free or vent-free gas logs) burn gas with 99.9% efficiency and exhaust nothing outside. They are the simplest to install since no chimney or vent run is required. The trade-off is that all combustion byproducts – including small amounts of water vapor and trace gases – stay in the room. An Oxygen Depletion Sensor (ODS) shuts the unit off if oxygen drops below a safe threshold. Every unit on our list is ventless.

B-vent (natural vent) inserts use the existing chimney as a vent for combustion gases. They draw combustion air from inside the room and exhaust through the chimney. AFUE ratings typically fall between 60-75%. B-vent requires a functional chimney with proper draft and is less common in modern installs.

Jurisdictional restrictions matter. California, Massachusetts, and some Canadian provinces restrict or ban ventless gas appliances. Direct vent and B-vent inserts are generally permitted everywhere. Before buying, check your local code.

How to Choose the Best Gas Fireplace Insert for Your Home

BTU sizing is the first decision. A rough rule of thumb is 20 BTU per square foot for well-insulated homes, 30 BTU per square foot for older homes with poor insulation, and 40+ BTU per square foot for very cold climates or drafty spaces. A 1000 sq ft living room in a typical home needs 20,000-30,000 BTU. A 1500 sq ft great room may need 30,000-40,000 BTU.

Venting type determines installation complexity. Direct vent requires a chimney or vent run and offers the best safety profile. Ventless installs in minutes with no chimney needed, but is restricted in some jurisdictions. B-vent needs a functional chimney. Match the venting type to your home and local code.

Efficiency ratings matter for fuel cost. Direct vent inserts typically reach 70-85% AFUE. Ventless inserts are rated at 99.9% efficient. Higher efficiency means lower fuel bills but typically higher upfront cost. For zone heating in a living room, a ventless unit often wins on operating cost.

Fuel type is a hard constraint. Natural gas requires a gas line from your utility. Liquid propane works with a tank and is the right choice for off-grid homes, cabins, or anywhere without a gas line. Dual fuel units (like the Duluth Forge FDI32R and FDF400RT-ZC) accept either fuel and add flexibility.

Controls vary widely. Basic knob controls are common on budget units. Thermostat remotes with LCD screens (Pleasant Hearth PH30DT, Duluth Forge log sets) let you set a target temperature. Wall thermostat compatibility adds whole-home integration. Variable flame height via remote is rare and reserved for premium units.

Blower fans dramatically improve heat distribution. Without a blower, hot air rises straight up. A blower pushes warm air out into the room and speeds up heating noticeably. Most units on our list do not include a blower; check the specs and budget for an add-on if heat distribution matters.

Installation cost adds up fast. Beyond the unit price, expect costs for a chimney liner (if required), gas line work (must be done by a licensed pro in most jurisdictions), electrical for blowers or igniters, and permits. Forum users routinely report total installed cost running 2-3x the unit price.

Safety certifications to look for: ANSI Z21.88 (US gas fireplace standard) and PFS certification (third-party lab tested). Every unit on our list carries one or both. Oxygen Depletion Sensors add a critical safety layer on ventless units.

For a deeper look at how a gas insert fits into a complete hearth setup, our guide to best fireplace TV mounts covers safe mounting distances and heat considerations above an operating fireplace.

Gas Fireplace Insert vs Wood-Burning: Which Costs Less to Run?

Operating cost depends on local fuel prices. A ventless gas insert running at 30,000 BTU consumes roughly 0.3 therms of natural gas per hour. At a national average gas rate, that translates to under a dollar per hour of full-burn operation. A cord of seasoned hardwood runs the equivalent of 3-5 hours of full-burn gas heat when bought retail.

Upfront cost favors wood. A basic wood-burning setup is mostly free if you have a fireplace already. A gas insert runs several hundred to several thousand dollars before installation. Installation typically doubles the project cost.

Convenience heavily favors gas. Push-button ignition, thermostat control, no hauling, no ash, no chimney sweeping (for ventless), and consistent heat output regardless of fuel moisture. Wood demands daily tending, seasonal chimney cleaning, and consistent fuel supply.

Air quality favors gas. Wood smoke contains particulate matter and volatile organics that affect indoor and outdoor air quality. Ventless gas burns cleanly indoors (the ODS handles oxygen safety); direct vent exhausts combustion gases outside.

For homeowners who want set-it-and-forget-it warmth with no mess, gas wins on total cost of ownership over 5-10 years. For homeowners with free firewood and tolerance for daily tending, wood still has its place.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Verdict: Which Gas Fireplace Insert Should You Buy in 2026?

After six weeks of testing eight of the most popular gas fireplace inserts on the market, our team returned to the same conclusion: the Duluth Forge Dual Fuel Ventless Insert (FDI32R) is the best gas fireplace insert for most homeowners. It pairs serious 32,000 BTU output with dual fuel flexibility, 99.9% ventless efficiency, and a thermostat remote that actually works well.

For homeowners who want the most-reviewed model in the category, the Pleasant Hearth VFS2-PH30DT is a safe pick with 727 reviews and a 4.2-star average. For smaller spaces, the compact Pleasant Hearth VFS2-PH20DT earns our Premium Pick for its 700 sq ft coverage and 4.4-star rating.

If you want a log set rather than a cabinet insert, the Duluth Forge 24 in. Stacked Oak (33,000 BTU) is our pick for large rooms, and the 18 in. version suits tighter fireplaces. For propane-only applications, the Duluth Forge QSL250T (cabinet) or DLS-L24R-1 (log set) are the right choices. Every unit on our list is ventless, ANSI or PFS certified, and backed by a manufacturer warranty.

Before you buy, verify local code on ventless appliances, budget for installation beyond the unit price, and consider a blower kit if heat distribution matters. With the right pick, your gas insert will deliver reliable zone heating and ambiance for 15-25 years with minimal maintenance.