Are vent free fireplaces legal in New York?

Vent Free Gas Space Heaters Allowed in NYS. New York State has approved the use of vent-free gas heaters as a source of supplemental heat. They are not to be used as a main source of heat.

Hereof, what states allow vent free fireplaces?

In the US, it is illegal to install vent-frees anywhere in the States of California and Montana. Minnesota has a state-wide ban prohibiting installation of vent-frees in any home built after 1980.

Beside above, why are ventless fireplaces illegal? The study also found higher-than-recommended levels of nitrogen dioxide, a pollutant that can irritate the lungs. Because of CO safety concerns, ventless gas fireplaces are banned in California and Canada.

Hereof, are fireplaces illegal in NYC?

Next week on July 1st, new wood-burning fireplaces in New York City will be banned as part of New York City Mayor, Bill de Blasio's proposed, new clean air initiatives. Additionally, existing wood-burning fireplaces will be required to burn wood with less than 20% moisture content, helping the fire burn more cleanly.

Are vent free fireplaces safe?

Venting any type of combustion is ideal. As forwarded by the ventless gas appliance industry, though, ventless gas fireplaces can be safely used because they burn a low enough quantity of gas that it will not present a hazard.

37 Related Question Answers Found

Which is better vented or ventless gas fireplace?

It all depends on your needs, but vented sets have a more realistic flame and can be used in an existing real wood fireplace, while ventless logs are more efficient. A gas fireplace makes a great alternative for homeowners looking for a supplemental heat source that also provides a beautiful ambience.

Do ventless fireplaces smell?

In fact, a faint gas smell is an unavoidable consequence of using gas fireplace logs. In a gas ventless fireplace, oxygen is provided by the air in your home. If that air contains impurities, those impurities are drawn in with the oxygen and can produce odors which are amplified by the flame.

Who has banned ventless fireplaces in their housing?

Massachusetts, California, and a number of other states in the U.S., as well as Canada and other countries, have outlawed ventless gas fireplaces due to the aforementioned safety concerns. Many individual municipalities, too, have outlawed these appliances in states where they are otherwise legal.

Can a ventless fireplace make you sick?

Vent-free fireplaces can make you sick

For example, sulfur dioxide is a respiratory irritant that causes symptoms like difficulty breathing, coughing, and wheezing. It's particularly dangerous for sensitive groups like children and the elderly, and can cause serious complications for people living with asthma.

Are ventless gas fireplaces legal in California?

Vent-Free Fireplaces Not Allowed in California. Vent-Free fireplaces have been very controversial in the fireplace industry for over decades. In fact, in 1996, they were banned by Alaska, Montana, Minnesota, New York, and Massachusetts, however, after strong influence by the industry, all but California still bans them

Are ventless gas fireplaces legal in Canada?

Vent free fireplaces are fireplaces that do not require any type of vent system. Currently, these type of gas fireplaces can only be installed in some areas of the United States. They are not approved for use in Canada.

Are all gas fireplaces ventless?

Gas and propane fireplaces provide a convenient, low-cost alternative to traditional fireplace options, but they aren't trouble-free. Ventless fireplaces, which don't include a flue or chimney, have been sold in the U.S. since 1980. They're powered by natural gas, propane, alcohol-based gels, or electricity.

Are ethanol fireplaces legal in NYC?

They can be securely installed virtually anywhere and are only chimney-free fireplaces approved by the Department of Buildings and Fireplace Department for use in New York City. For over a decade now, alcohol fuels have been increasingly applied for use in fireplaces.

Do ethanol fireplaces need to be vented?

Ethanol fireplaces do not need venting because of the fumes or waste (which they do not produce). If you have ventilation vent in area where you burn ethanol fireplace - make sure that is cleared and open - such a vent is enough to keep your oxygen level within norm.

Are Chimineas legal in NYC?

Answer: The answer to this one is straightforward, according to our experts: No, fire pits are not in any way legal to have in a New York City backyard, and you should feel free to report your neighbors before they fill up your apartment with any more smoke.

Can you burn wood in NYC?

Open Burning Prohibitions

Open burning is prohibited in New York, with several exceptions: Campfires less than 3 feet in height and 4 feet in length, width or diameter are allowed. Small cooking fires are allowed. Only charcoal or clean, untreated or unpainted wood can be burned.

Are propane heaters legal in NYC?

Kerosene heaters and propane space heaters are illegal in New York City.

How do fireplaces work in apartments?

Reach inside the flue of your wood or gas fireplace to grab the damper handle. Push in and upward on the handle to lock the damper in the open position so hot gases can escape up the chimney. An electric fireplace does not require a damper.

Is it legal to burn wood?

In 2008, the Air District passed a rule that makes it illegal to burn wood on days when a Winter Spare the Air Alert is in effect. This regulation was adopted to protect public health. The fine particles in wood smoke are about 1/70 the width of a human hair.

What is a gel fueled fireplace?

A gel fuel fireplace is a type of vent-free fireplace that uses canisters of an alcohol-based gel as a fuel source. Because they need no chimney, gas hookups, or electricity, these handy fireplaces can be moved wherever you want them. Using a gel fuel fireplace indoors or outdoors is as easy as lighting a match.

Are gel fireplaces safe?

As long as you buy the type of gel fuel meant to be used indoors, inside of a gel-burning fireplace, it is safe. Gel fuel is an alcohol-based fuel rated 90 percent effective and it burns clean without fumes or smoke.

How much does it cost to install a ventless gas fireplace?

Including the cost of professional installation, this type of ventless fireplace will, on average, cost between $2,000.00 and $3,500.00. Installing a gas or propane ventless fireplace may or may not require a building permit.