We shopped around to update our prefab fireplace about a year and a half ago. After considering several options we decided to get a Jotul direct vent gas insert. It gives a nice flame but, more important for us here in North Carolina where we sometimes get power outtages during ice storms, it throws off a lot of heat.

I know that's not important to you. So I want to suggest Eiklor gas logs, which produce the most beautful dancing flames of any gas unit, IMPO. BUT, this is a gas logs unit, not direct vent. So you do not have the pluses of a DV system. If you phone the Eiklor 800# in Chicago you might actually get Mr. E. himself on the phone to give you an enthusiastic sales pitch. If really great looking flames are the top priority for you, I think Eiklor is the way to go. But the chimney whould be vented. DO NOT under any circumstances get an unvented system. I don't care what anybody says, they are dangerous because they consume the indoor oxygen and pollute the indoor air. Mr. E. might tell you that his systems do generate a lot of heat. But I doubt that they can do what DV systems do because most of the heat goes up the chimney.

So, my advice to you is to find a shop within reasonable travel distance that has Eiklor logs on display. That will convince you. But if you go with them, remember that your gas bill will be high, and most of the heat will go up the chimney.

Happy hunting.

bevangel,

Like you, we would like something just for looks. Definitely don't need the heat down here in south Louisiana! Hoping others will chime in here w/ their expertise.