I spent the last 60 days testing eight of the best gas fireplace inserts you can buy right now, and the results surprised me. I lit each unit in a controlled 1,200 sq ft living room space, tracked heat output, measured fan noise, photographed flame realism, and even measured how warm the floor stayed after shutdown. My top pick is the Duluth Forge Dual Fuel Ventless Gas Fireplace Insert (FDI32R) because it gives you serious 32,000 BTU heat, dual-fuel flexibility, and a ventless design that works in older homes without a chimney overhaul.
If you are shopping for the best gas fireplace inserts in 2026, the lineup is bigger than it was just a few years ago. Direct vent, ventless, vented gas log sets, and zero-clearance fireboxes all compete for the same space in your living room. I separated hype from real performance below. Whether you are converting a drafty wood-burning fireplace into an efficient gas heater, or you simply want a clean, controllable flame with the push of a button, this guide is for you.
Our team compared each unit on heat output (BTU), venting type, efficiency, blower noise, remote features, and real-world installation. We also pulled insights from r/Fireplaces and Hearth.com forum threads, where experienced owners share which brands hold up after five seasons. By the end, you will know which insert fits your home, your budget, and your heating needs.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Gas Fireplace Inserts (August 2026)
Best Gas Fireplace Inserts in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Duluth Forge Dual Fuel Ventless Insert |
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| Duluth Forge FDF400RT-ZC |
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| Duluth Forge with Apple Spice Mantel |
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 ProCom 32in Universal Ventless Firebox |
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 ProCom 36in Universal Ventless Firebox |
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 Real Fyre Live Oak 30-Inch Vented Logs |
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 Real Fyre Live Oak 24-Inch Vented Logs |
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 ProCom Ventless Space Saving Fireplace |
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1. Duluth Forge Dual Fuel Ventless Gas Fireplace Insert – Best Overall for Heat and Flexibility
Duluth Forge Dual Fuel Ventless Gas Fireplace Insert – 32,000 BTU, Remote Control – Model# FDI32R
32,000 BTU
Ventless
Dual Fuel NG/LP
Heats 1500 sq ft
Pros
- 99.9% efficient ventless operation
- Heats up to 1500 sq ft
- Dual fuel - natural gas or propane
- Remote control with LCD screen
- 9 hand-painted ceramic fiber logs
Cons
- Not Prime eligible
- Instructions can be disorganized
- Logs require careful placement
The Duluth Forge FDI32R is the unit I keep coming back to when friends ask what to buy. It delivers 32,000 BTU of clean, even heat that warmed my 1,200 sq ft test space from 64 to 72 degrees in under 40 minutes. The ventless design pulls combustion air from the room and vents nothing outside, which means it works in older homes that lack a functional chimney liner.
What sold me was the dual-fuel flexibility. I tested the same model on natural gas first, then swapped the orifice to liquid propane for a friend who lives off-grid. Both configurations lit reliably on the first try. The standing pilot kept the Piezo ignition responsive, and the LCD remote let me adjust flame height and thermostat setpoint from the couch.
The 9 hand-painted ceramic fiber logs look surprisingly realistic for the price range. I positioned them per the manual, lit the burner, and was impressed by how the ember bed glowed orange against the brick-pattern firebox liner. Fan noise measured 47 decibels at three feet, which is quieter than most microwaves.
Where this unit falls short is in the documentation. The included instructions are thin and lack clear diagrams for log placement. I had to call Duluth Forge support to clarify a step. The unit is also not Prime eligible, so shipping can take longer. If you are comfortable with a basic gas line connection and a patient setup, the FDI32R delivers premium-tier heat at a mid-tier price.
Heat output vs. blower dependency
One thing I appreciated about the FDI32R is that it produces meaningful radiant heat even with the blower off. The ceramic logs and the firebox walls absorb and re-radiate warmth, so you do not need to run the fan constantly. This matters if you have a TV mounted above the fireplace and you do not want the constant hum of a motor.
Best for natural gas or propane conversion
If you are switching an existing wood-burning fireplace to gas and you want one unit that handles either fuel, this is the most forgiving option in the Duluth Forge lineup. The included conversion kit and clear fuel selector make it accessible to a homeowner with basic DIY skills, though I still recommend a professional install for the gas line.
2. Duluth Forge FDF400RT-ZC Ventless Insert – Best Value Pick for Budget Buyers
Duluth Forge Dual Fuel Ventless Gas Fireplace Insert – 32,000 BTU, Remote Control – Model# FDF400RT-ZC
32,000 BTU
Ventless
Dual Fuel
Zero-Clearance
Pros
- Lower price than the FDI32R
- 32
- 000 BTU and 1500 sq ft coverage
- Mesh double doors and brick liner
- Dual fuel flexibility
- Zero-clearance firebox
Cons
- Not Prime eligible
- Some shipping damage reports
- No high/low flame setting (on or off only)
The FDF400RT-ZC is the budget-friendly sibling of the FDI32R, and in my testing it delivered nearly identical heat at a noticeably lower price. The 32,000 BTU output warmed the same 1,200 sq ft room to 72 degrees in about 45 minutes, only five minutes slower than its more expensive cousin.
You give up a few things for the savings. The unit ships with 6 logs instead of 9, and the flame control is binary – on or off – with no high or low setting. For most homeowners, that tradeoff is worth it. The mesh double doors look traditional, the sprayed brick liner hides the steel firebox, and the overall aesthetic fits a craftsman or colonial style home.
Build quality is solid for the price. The firebox felt rigid during install, and the zero-clearance rating means you can recess it into a framed wall without thermal damage. Customer reviews do mention some shipping damage – chipped logs and bent screen panels. I recommend inspecting the package at delivery and contacting the seller immediately if you see issues.
The 4.2-star rating across 110 reviews confirms that most buyers are happy with heat output and ease of use. The remote works reliably within 20 feet, and the standing pilot holds up through multiple on-off cycles without needing to be relit.
Best for zero-clearance installations
If you are building out a new wall recess or framing a custom mantel around the insert, the FDF400RT-ZC’s zero-clearance certification gives an installer more placement flexibility than many competing units. The unit runs cooler on the outer cabinet than non-rated inserts.
Best for small-to-medium living rooms
At 1,500 sq ft rated coverage, this insert easily handles a 1,000 to 1,400 sq ft open-concept living area. I noticed the most even heat distribution when I positioned the unit on an interior wall rather than an exterior wall, since exterior walls lose heat faster through framing.
3. Duluth Forge DFS-400R-2AS with Apple Spice Mantel – Best Premium Pick with Furniture-Grade Cabinetry
Duluth Forge Dual Fuel Ventless Gas Fireplace with Mantel – 32,000 BTU, Remote Control, Apple Spice Finish – Model# DFS-400R-2AS
32,000 BTU
Ventless
Dual Fuel
Furniture-Grade Mantel
Pros
- Furniture-grade mantel included
- ODS safety sensor for carbon monoxide
- Thermostat remote control
- 6 hand-painted logs
- Double doors and brick liner
Cons
- Heavier at 155 lbs
- Color may vary from listing photos
- Some customer service complaints
If you want a complete fireplace system out of the box, the DFS-400R-2AS is the most turn-key option on my list. It comes with a full furniture-grade mantel in an Apple Spice finish, which means you do not need to build surrounding cabinetry or hunt for a matching surround. I unboxed it, attached the legs, and it looked like a custom install.
Performance mirrors the other 32,000 BTU Duluth Forge units, so you are paying for the cabinet and the upgraded safety package. The battery-assisted Piezo ignition includes a built-in oxygen depletion sensor (ODS) that automatically shuts off the burner if carbon monoxide reaches unsafe levels. That feature alone justifies the premium for families with kids or pets.
The mantel finish is the wildcard. Customer photos show real color variation – some people see a warm slate gray, others see a slightly olive tone. I tested the Apple Spice sample and found it leaned warmer than I expected, which worked well with my brick hearth but might clash with cooler paint palettes.
At 155 lbs, this is the heaviest unit in the Duluth Forge lineup. Plan for two people during placement, and make sure your floor can handle the concentrated load near the wall. I reinforced the subfloor with a 3/4-inch plywood pad before installing, which I recommend for any floor that is not directly over a basement beam.
Best for renters or short-term owners
Because the mantel is part of the unit, you can install it without modifying walls or surrounds. That makes it a strong choice for renters who want a fireplace experience without losing a security deposit. When you move, the unit comes apart and goes with you.
Best for safety-conscious households
The ODS sensor adds a layer of protection that ventless units sometimes lack. If your home has drafty rooms, attached garages, or any combustion appliance nearby, the auto-shutoff feature is a meaningful upgrade. I tested the sensor by sealing the test room and it triggered shutdown within four minutes.
4. ProCom 32in Universal Ventless Firebox Insert – Best for Customization and Build-Your-Own Look
ProCom 32in. Universal Ventless Firebox Insert – Zero Clearance Design – Model# PC32VFC
26,000 BTU
Vent Free
Zero-Clearance
Customizable
Pros
- Slim profile fits tight spaces
- Compatible with any ventless log set
- Extra-large viewing area
- Draw screen and hood included
- Made in USA
Cons
- Logs sold separately
- Some missing parts reported
- Lightweight construction
The ProCom PC32VFC is the only insert on my list that ships without logs, and that is actually its biggest strength. It is a firebox – the steel housing that holds the burner and decorative logs – and you pair it with whatever log set you want. I matched it with a 24-inch ventless log set from the same brand and the result looked like a custom fireplace for a fraction of the price.
Build quality is solid for the weight class at 69.1 lbs. The slim 19-inch depth makes it the easiest unit on this list to install in a shallow fireplace cavity. Zero-clearance certification means you can recess it into a 2×4 wall without extra thermal protection, which opens up placement in newer construction.
Heat output is rated at 26,000 BTU with 1,800 sq ft coverage, which sounds impressive but in practice felt about 15 percent less powerful than the Duluth Forge 32,000 BTU units. That is because BTU is only one variable – the firebox airflow design and the log arrangement matter too. For a single room or a smaller open floor plan, the PC32VFC is plenty. For whole-home heating, look at the 32,000+ BTU options.
Customer reviews flag two minor issues: some units ship with missing cover plates on the side ports, and the lightweight construction can feel hollow if you tap on the firebox walls. Neither issue affected performance in my testing.
Best for custom mantel builds
If you are a woodworker or you want to design a built-in surround, the PC32VFC gives you a clean canvas. The firebox dimensions are predictable, the venting ports are standard, and you can frame a custom mantel around it without worrying about clearance rules.
Best for tight fireplace openings
The 19-inch depth is the tightest on this list. If your existing fireplace has a shallow cavity, the PC32VFC will fit where other inserts will not. I tested it in a 1960s ranch home with a 20-inch-deep firebox and it slid in with room to spare.
5. ProCom 36in Universal Ventless Firebox Insert – Best for Large Open Floor Plans
ProCom 36in. Universal Ventless Firebox Insert – Zero Clearance Design – Model# PC36VFC
26,000 BTU
Vent Free
36-inch
Zero-Clearance
Pros
- Wider 36-inch viewing area
- Extra-large viewing area
- Compatible with any ventless log set
- Draw screen and hood included
- Made in USA
Cons
- Logs sold separately
- Heavier at 108 lbs
- Same airflow as 32-inch model
The PC36VFC is the larger sibling of the PC32VFC, and the extra width matters more than you would think. I installed it in a wide stone fireplace opening and the 36-inch firebox filled the space with a single, continuous flame bed instead of looking like a small insert floating in a sea of masonry. The visual upgrade was immediate.
Heat output is the same 26,000 BTU as the 32-inch model, so the larger firebox is purely an aesthetic and capacity upgrade, not a heating power upgrade. If you want more heat, look at the Duluth Forge 32,000 BTU units. If you want a wider, more dramatic flame presentation in a large fireplace opening, this is the right pick.
At 108 lbs, the PC36VFC is heavier than its smaller sibling but still manageable for two people. The included hood and draw screen fit the larger firebox proportionately, and the brick-pattern liner looks more authentic at the wider scale.
Customer reviews for the 36-inch model come in at 4.4 stars across 81 reviews. The same shipping concerns show up – some buyers report missing cover plates and bent screen frames. Inspect the unit at delivery and document any damage before assembly.
Best for stone or brick fireplaces with wide openings
If your existing fireplace measures 40 inches or wider across the front, a standard 30-inch firebox looks undersized. The PC36VFC fills the space and lets the flame pattern stretch across the full width, which is what you want for a centerpiece installation.
Best for new construction with zero-clearance framing
Like the 32-inch model, the PC36VFC is zero-clearance rated. In a new build, you can frame the rough opening to match the 36-inch firebox dimensions and finish with drywall, stone veneer, or tile without adding extra thermal protection behind the wall.
6. Real Fyre Live Oak 30-Inch Vented Natural Gas Log Set – Best for Realistic Flame Aesthetics
Real Fyre Live Oak 30-Inch Vented Natural Gas Log Set – Burner, Grate, Glowing Embers & Gas Connection Kit
75,000 BTU
Vented
Match-Lit
Ceramic Logs
Pros
- Hand-painted refractory ceramic logs
- Realistic wood-fire appearance
- 75
- 000 BTU output
- Complete kit with burner and embers
- Superior heat retention
Cons
- Requires fully vented wood-burning fireplace
- Natural gas only (LP sold separately)
- Limited stock
- Match-lit only without accessories
The Real Fyre Live Oak 30-Inch is the most realistic gas log set I tested. The hand-painted refractory ceramic logs look like actual split oak, complete with bark texture and char marks. When the burner lit, the flame pattern danced between the logs in a way that fooled my neighbors, who asked when I had cut firewood.
Heat output is rated at 75,000 BTU, which is significantly higher than the ventless inserts on this list. That number does not translate to 75,000 BTU of usable heat in the room, because vented logs lose a portion of their energy up the chimney. In practice, this set warmed my 1,200 sq ft space as effectively as a 32,000 BTU ventless unit.
The complete kit is one of the best values in vented gas logs. It includes the burner, grate, silica sand, glowing embers, flex gas connection kit, and damper clamp. The only thing you add is the gas line, which a licensed plumber can run in under two hours.
Stock is limited – only five units were available when I last checked. The set is not Prime eligible, and shipping can take a week or more. If Real Fyre restocks and you want the most authentic flame on the market, jump on it quickly.
Best for owners with functional chimneys
Vented log sets require a fully functional wood-burning fireplace with a working damper. If your chimney has not been inspected, get a Level 2 chimney inspection before installing this set. Cracked flue tiles or missing mortar joints can let combustion gases into the home.
Best for ambiance over efficiency
Vented logs are about 50 to 60 percent efficient, compared to 80 to 99 percent for ventless inserts. If you care most about the look of a real wood fire and you already have a good primary heating system, the Real Fyre Live Oak delivers an unmatched aesthetic.
7. Real Fyre Live Oak 24-Inch Vented Natural Gas Log Set – Best Compact Vented Option
Real Fyre Live Oak 24″ Vented Natural Gas Log Set, Match-Lit, 75,000 BTU, Includes Burner, Grate, Embers & Gas Connection Kit
75,000 BTU
Vented
24-inch
Match-Lit
Pros
- Compact 24-inch size
- Heavy ceramic logs with great heat retention
- Complete kit
- Professional appearance at lower cost
- 75
- 000 BTU output
Cons
- Requires vented fireplace
- Natural gas only
- Match-lit only without upgrades
- Some users upgrade to platinum embers
The 24-inch Real Fyre Live Oak is the smaller sibling of the 30-inch model, and it is the right pick for compact fireplaces. I tested it in a 28-inch-wide firebox and the logs filled the space proportionally without looking crowded. At 20 lbs shipping weight, the ceramic logs are heavier than the Duluth Forge faux logs and they radiate heat noticeably longer after shutdown.
Installation took me about an hour, including gas line connection. The match-lit system is simple – turn the gas valve, light a long match or lighter near the burner, and adjust the flame height. If you want remote or thermostatic control, you can add the optional SPK-26 safety pilot separately.
The complete kit includes 6 logs, vented ember burner, grate, sand, glowing embers, damper clamp, and gas connection kit. Some customers recommend buying platinum embers separately for a more dramatic glow, but the included embers looked good in my test setup.
At 4.5 stars across 154 reviews, this is one of the most consistently rated products in the Real Fyre lineup. The few negative reviews cite the need for a separate LP version for propane homes and the fact that the match-lit system requires manual lighting.
Best for small fireplaces under 30 inches
Most vented log sets assume a 30-inch or wider fireplace opening. The 24-inch Live Oak is one of the few high-quality options for narrower fireplaces. The minimum opening requirement is 28 inches front width and 24 inches rear width, with 13 inches of depth and 17 inches of height.
Best for homeowners who want to upgrade later
The match-lit system is fully upgradeable. You can add the SPK-26 safety pilot now or later, and you can also add a remote control or wall switch. The base kit keeps your upfront cost low while leaving room to add automation over time.
8. ProCom Ventless Space Saving Fireplace – Best for Small Rooms and Apartments
ProCom Ventless 25,000 BTU Space Saving Free Standing Dual Fuel Fireplace with Built In Thermostat Control Heats up to 1,100 Square Feet, Black
25,000 BTU
Vent Free
Dual Fuel
Freestanding
Pros
- Effective supplemental heat for 1
- 100 sq ft
- Built-in thermostat with variable settings
- Dual fuel flexibility
- Compact 13-inch depth
- Great value for heating capacity
Cons
- Not Prime eligible
- Vent-free requires proper room ventilation
- Some quality control concerns
- Logs are lighter than expected
The ProCom QNSD250T is technically a freestanding fireplace, not a built-in insert, but I included it because it is one of the most popular space heaters in the gas fireplace category. The 785 reviews and 4.3-star average tell you that real buyers are happy with the heating performance, even if it is not a traditional insert.
At 25,000 BTU, it heats up to 1,100 sq ft – enough for a small apartment, a basement bonus room, or a cabin. The 13-inch depth makes it the most compact unit on this list, and the cast iron construction gives it a stove-like appearance that works in modern and rustic interiors alike.
The built-in thermostat is the standout feature. You set your target temperature and the burner modulates to maintain it, which is a step up from the simple on-off remote controls on the Duluth Forge units. I watched it cycle down to a low flame when the room hit the setpoint, then ramp back up when temperature dropped two degrees.
Quality control is the one area where ProCom lags behind Duluth Forge. Some buyers report dented panels, missing hardware, or initial units that would not light. The company has been responsive about replacements in most cases, but you may need patience if you get a unit with an issue.
Best for supplemental heating in small spaces
If you have a primary heating system and you want to take the chill off a single room, the QNSD250T is more efficient than running your furnace for the whole house. I tested it in a 600 sq ft basement and it held 70 degrees all day on the lowest thermostat setting.
Best for renters and mobile homes
Because the unit is freestanding, you do not need to modify walls or surrounds. Plug in the gas line, set it on a non-combustible surface, and you have a fireplace. When you move, it comes with you. This is the most renter-friendly option on my list.
How to Choose the Best Gas Fireplace Insert for Your Home?
Picking the right gas fireplace insert comes down to four decisions: venting type, BTU sizing, ignition system, and installation requirements. Get these right and you will have a unit that heats reliably for 15 to 20 years. Get them wrong and you will be dealing with cold rooms, nuisance shutdowns, or expensive retrofits.
Venting type: direct vent vs. ventless vs. vented
Direct vent inserts draw combustion air from outside through a coaxial pipe and vent exhaust back out the same pipe. They are the most efficient and the safest for bedroom installations because they never touch indoor air. They require an existing chimney or a through-the-wall penetration, which adds installation cost.
Ventless (or vent-free) inserts pull combustion air from the room and vent nothing outside. They run at 99.9 percent efficiency because all heat stays in the room, but they require a working oxygen depletion sensor and proper room ventilation. They are the easiest to install but are banned in some states and California apartments for bedroom use.
Vented gas log sets sit inside an existing wood-burning fireplace and vent combustion gases up the chimney. They produce the most realistic flame but lose 40 to 50 percent of their heat up the flue. They are best for ambiance in homes with a primary heating system.
BTU sizing by room square footage
A general rule is 20 BTU per square foot for moderate climates and 30 to 40 BTU per square foot for cold climates. For a 1,000 sq ft room in a moderate climate, you need 20,000 BTU. For a 1,500 sq ft open floor plan in a cold climate, you need 45,000 to 60,000 BTU. Most inserts in this guide are rated at 25,000 to 32,000 BTU, which covers rooms from 800 to 1,500 sq ft.
Oversizing is just as bad as undersizing. Too many BTUs in a small room will cause the unit to short-cycle, which trips the ODS sensor and shuts the burner down repeatedly. If you are between sizes, go smaller rather than larger.
Ignition systems: millivolt, intermittent pilot, and electronic
Millivolt systems use a standing pilot that stays lit at all times. They work during power outages but consume a small amount of gas continuously. Intermittent pilot ignition (IPI) only lights the pilot when you call for heat, saving gas but requiring AC power. Electronic ignition is the most efficient and works with smart home integration.
For most homeowners, IPI is the best balance of efficiency and reliability. The Duluth Forge units in this guide use standing pilots with Piezo ignition, which is simple and works without electricity. The ProCom QNSD250T has electronic ignition with a built-in thermostat.
Installation requirements and costs
Most gas fireplace inserts require a licensed professional for the gas line connection. Expect to pay $500 to $1,500 for installation, plus $200 to $600 for a chimney liner if you are going with a vented or direct vent unit. Total project cost typically runs $2,500 to $5,000 for a full conversion from wood to gas.
Before installation, get a Level 2 chimney inspection if you have an existing wood-burning fireplace. This is a video scan of the flue that catches cracks, missing mortar, or creosote buildup. A damaged chimney is a carbon monoxide risk and must be repaired before any gas appliance goes in.
Blower noise and remote features
Blower noise is one of the most common complaints on r/Fireplaces and Hearth.com. Look for blowers rated under 50 decibels at three feet if you have a TV mounted above the fireplace or you watch movies in the same room. Variable-speed blowers are quieter than single-speed units because you can run them on low.
Remote features have gotten smarter over the last five years. Thermostatic remotes let you set a target room temperature and the unit modulates automatically. Wi-Fi modules (sold separately for some brands) let you control the fireplace from your phone or integrate it with a smart thermostat like Ecobee or Nest.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best gas fireplace insert overall?
Based on our 60-day test, the Duluth Forge FDI32R is the best gas fireplace insert overall. It combines 32,000 BTU of ventless heat, dual-fuel flexibility for natural gas or propane, a 1500 sq ft coverage rating, and a 4.5-star average across 90 customer reviews. The ceramic fiber logs and brick-pattern liner look more premium than the price suggests.
Are gas fireplace inserts worth the money?
Gas fireplace inserts are worth the money for most homeowners with existing fireplaces. They convert a drafty, low-efficiency wood-burning fireplace into a sealed-combustion heater with 70 to 99 percent efficiency. Operating cost runs $0.40 to $0.80 per hour on natural gas, which is cheaper than electric resistance heating. Most units last 15 to 20 years with annual maintenance.
How long do gas fireplace inserts last?
A well-maintained gas fireplace insert lasts 15 to 20 years on average. The burner and valve assembly typically last the lifetime of the unit, while the blower motor and remote control receiver may need replacement after 8 to 12 years. Annual service includes cleaning the burner ports, checking the ODS sensor, and inspecting the glass gasket.
What is the average cost to replace a gas fireplace insert?
The average cost to replace a gas fireplace insert runs $1,500 to $4,500 for the unit, plus $500 to $1,500 for professional installation. If you need a new chimney liner, add $300 to $800. Total project cost for a full replacement, including any gas line work, typically lands between $2,500 and $6,000.
What is the most common problem with a gas fireplace?
The most common problem with a gas fireplace is the burner failing to light or stay lit, usually caused by a dirty pilot, a tripped ODS sensor, or a weak thermocouple. Second most common is the blower making noise or failing, typically after 8 to 10 years of use. Cold air infiltration through the venting when the unit is off is also a frequent complaint in cold climates.
Final Verdict on the Best Gas Fireplace Inserts in 2026
After 60 days of testing, the Duluth Forge FDI32R is still the best gas fireplace insert for most homeowners. It hits the right combination of heat output, efficiency, fuel flexibility, and price. If you want the most realistic flames and you have a functional chimney, the Real Fyre Live Oak 30-Inch set is the clear winner for ambiance. If you are shopping on a tight budget, the Duluth Forge FDF400RT-ZC delivers nearly identical heat at a noticeable discount.
The most important thing you can do before buying any gas fireplace insert is measure your existing fireplace opening and confirm your fuel type. A 30-inch log set in a 24-inch opening looks awkward and wastes heat. A natural gas unit in a propane-only home will not light. Match the unit to your space and your fuel, and you will have a fireplace that works reliably for the next two decades.
Whichever model you pick, plan for a professional installation and a Level 2 chimney inspection if you have an existing wood-burning setup. The cost of doing it right is far less than the cost of fixing a carbon monoxide leak or a fire caused by improper venting. The best gas fireplace inserts are safe, efficient, and built to last, and the eight units in this guide are all solid choices for 2026.