Fireplace Xtrordinair is a brand that makes direct-vent and ventless gas fireplaces

Fireplace Xtrordinair manufactures gas fireplaces sold through fireplace retailers and builders. The company makes both direct-vent models (which pull outside air for combustion and vent exhaust back outside) and ventless models (which burn gas inside the room with no external vent). Their fireplaces are designed to fit into existing fireplace openings or be installed as standalone units.

Fireplace Xtrordinair is owned by Hearth & Home Technologies, a larger manufacturer of hearth products. You cannot order directly from Fireplace Xtrordinair; you buy through a local fireplace shop, builder, or HVAC contractor who stocks their models. The brand competes with other gas fireplace makers like Valor, Regency, and Napoleon.

The main choice when looking at Fireplace Xtrordinair models is whether you want a fireplace that vents outside (direct-vent) or one that does not (ventless). That decision depends on your home's structure, local building codes, and what you want the fireplace to do — provide heat, create ambiance, or both.

Key Takeaways

  • Fireplace Xtrordinair makes gas fireplaces in both direct-vent and ventless styles, sold through local retailers rather than directly to consumers.
  • Direct-vent models pull air from outside for combustion and exhaust to the outside, while ventless models burn gas inside the room.
  • Installation requires a licensed contractor and must comply with your local building code, which may restrict or prohibit ventless fireplaces.
  • Direct-vent fireplaces are more efficient at heating because they do not lose heated room air up a chimney, but they cost more to install.
  • Ventless fireplaces produce moisture and carbon dioxide inside your home, so they require adequate room ventilation and are banned in some jurisdictions.

Direct-vent models and how they work

A direct-vent Fireplace Xtrordinair pulls fresh air from outside, uses it to burn the gas, and sends the exhaust back outside through a sealed pipe. The combustion happens inside a sealed chamber, so no room air is used for burning. This means the fireplace does not depressurize your home or pull conditioned air out of the room.

Direct-vent fireplaces need a vent pipe that runs through an exterior wall or roof. The pipe is usually two concentric tubes — air comes in through the outer tube, exhaust goes out through the inner tube. Installation requires cutting through the wall or roof and sealing the opening. A licensed HVAC contractor or fireplace installer does this work, and the cost varies by your home's construction and how far the fireplace sits from an exterior wall.

Because direct-vent fireplaces do not lose heated room air, they are more efficient at warming a space than ventless models. They also produce no moisture or carbon dioxide inside your home, so they do not require special ventilation beyond the sealed vent pipe itself.

Ventless models and their limitations

A ventless Fireplace Xtrordinair burns gas inside your room with no external vent. The combustion byproducts — carbon dioxide, water vapor, and nitrogen oxides — stay in the room. Ventless fireplaces are cheaper to install because they do not need a vent pipe or exterior wall penetration.

Ventless fireplaces produce moisture that can condense on windows and walls if your home is not well-ventilated. They also consume oxygen in the room and produce carbon dioxide, so building codes in many places require you to crack a window or door when running one. Some jurisdictions ban ventless fireplaces entirely, especially in bedrooms or in homes with existing air quality concerns.

Before choosing a ventless model, check your local building code or ask your fireplace retailer whether ventless fireplaces are permitted in your area. Even where they are legal, your homeowner's insurance or HOA rules may restrict them.

Installation requirements and building code compliance

Both direct-vent and ventless Fireplace Xtrordinair models must be installed by a licensed contractor in most jurisdictions. The installer will need to verify that your home meets the fireplace manufacturer's specifications — clearance to combustibles, wall and floor materials, gas line capacity, and electrical outlet location.

Your local building department may require a permit before installation. The permit process typically involves submitting the fireplace model number and installation plan, and a building inspector will visit after installation to verify the work meets code. Permit costs and timelines vary by municipality.

Direct-vent fireplaces must have a properly sealed vent pipe with correct slope and support. Ventless fireplaces must have adequate room volume (usually at least 50 cubic feet per 1,000 BTU of fireplace output) and cannot be installed in bedrooms in most codes. Your contractor will know these rules for your area, but it is worth asking about them before you sign a contract.

Heat output and efficiency differences

Fireplace Xtrordinair models come in different heat outputs, measured in BTU (British Thermal Units). Smaller models produce around 15,000 to 20,000 BTU; larger ones reach 40,000 BTU or more. The manufacturer's specification sheet lists the BTU for each model.

Direct-vent fireplaces are typically 70 to 85 percent efficient at converting gas to usable heat in your home. Ventless fireplaces are nearly 100 percent efficient at converting gas to heat, but that heat includes the moisture and carbon dioxide released into your room, which may not feel like a benefit if your home becomes humid or stuffy.

If you are using the fireplace mainly for heat, a direct-vent model will warm your home more effectively per dollar of gas burned. If you want ambiance and occasional supplemental heat, a ventless model may be sufficient and costs less to install.

Cost and maintenance considerations

A direct-vent Fireplace Xtrordinair typically costs between $2,000 and $5,000 installed, depending on the model and how much work the vent installation requires. A ventless model usually costs $1,500 to $3,500 installed. These are rough ranges; your actual cost depends on your contractor, your home's construction, and local labor rates.

Both types require minimal maintenance. You should have the gas line and fireplace inspected annually by a licensed technician, especially before the heating season. Direct-vent fireplaces need the exterior vent opening checked for debris or blockage. Ventless fireplaces do not need vent maintenance, but you should monitor your home for excess moisture or odors, which can signal a problem.

Gas fireplaces use natural gas or propane. Your monthly cost depends on how often you run the fireplace and your local gas rates. A fireplace running 8 hours a day at 30,000 BTU will use roughly 240 therms of gas per month, but actual consumption varies widely by usage and efficiency.

Finding a Fireplace Xtrordinair dealer and getting information

To see Fireplace Xtrordinair models in person, search for "fireplace retailers near me" or "hearth shops near me." Local fireplace shops usually carry several Fireplace Xtrordinair models and can show you the differences between direct-vent and ventless options. They can also assess your home and give you an installation estimate.

You can also visit the Hearth & Home Technologies website to see the Fireplace Xtrordinair product line and find retailers in your area. The website lists model numbers, dimensions, heat output, and efficiency ratings. Bring this information to your retailer or contractor so they can confirm the model fits your space and meets your needs.

When you meet with a retailer or contractor, ask about the warranty, the installation timeline, and what happens if the fireplace needs service. Ask whether they handle the building permit or if you need to obtain it yourself. Get the estimate in writing and confirm it includes all labor, materials, and permits.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I install a Fireplace Xtrordinair myself?

No. Gas fireplace installation requires a licensed contractor in most places because it involves gas lines, venting, and building code compliance. Improper installation can create safety hazards like gas leaks or carbon monoxide. Your homeowner's insurance may also void coverage if an unlicensed person installs it.

Do I need a chimney for a direct-vent Fireplace Xtrordinair?

No. Direct-vent fireplaces create their own sealed vent pipe through an exterior wall or roof. If you have an existing chimney, you can use it for venting, but it is not required. Some people install a direct-vent fireplace in a room with no chimney at all.

What is the difference between a Fireplace Xtrordinair and a wood-burning fireplace?

A Fireplace Xtrordinair is a gas fireplace; a wood-burning fireplace burns logs. Gas fireplaces are cleaner, require no chimney cleaning, and produce no ash or creosote. Wood fireplaces produce more ambiance and heat but require annual chimney inspection and cleaning to prevent fire hazard.

Can I use a Fireplace Xtrordinair if my home is all-electric?

Only if your home has a natural gas line or you can install a propane tank. Fireplace Xtrordinair models run on gas, not electricity. If your home has no gas line, a propane conversion is possible but adds cost and requires a licensed contractor to install and maintain the tank.

Will a ventless Fireplace Xtrordinair make my home smell?

Ventless fireplaces can produce a slight gas smell, especially when first lit or if the burner is dirty. If the smell persists or is strong, it may indicate a problem with the burner or gas line. Have a technician inspect it. Adequate room ventilation reduces odor and helps with moisture and carbon dioxide buildup.