To start off, there are many types of fireplaces. First of all, there is the direct vent fireplace and the unvented fireplace. Direct vent fireplaces have a glass protecting the front of the fireplace so that loose sparks may not be spat out and a column leading outside where all the combustion, exhaust, and moisture are expelled. Unvented fireplaces meanwhile have no glass front. All the combustion, exhaust, and moisture have nowhere to go except through the only opening, the front.

Naturally of course, a direct vent fireplace is the healthier option of the two. However, not every type of accommodation can accommodate a direct vent fireplace. Some, like apartments, condos, or flats ought to opt for electrical fireplaces.