Monessen Solstice 33-Inch Ventless Gas Insert vs Empire Innsbrook 28" Vent-Free Gas Insert

Both are vent-free gas inserts that turn an old wood fireplace into a heater without a vent or chimney work. The Monessen Solstice puts out more heat, up to 28,000 BTUs against 20,000, and its 33-inch firebox with a 28x15-inch viewing area gives a bigger fire to look at. The Empire Innsbrook is the simpler, smaller-footprint choice, with a steel surround, a fine mesh barrier screen and hand-painted logs, and it fits tighter openings. Owners of both brands report realistic flames and reliable heat during power outages; the Solstice's extra output and blower make it the stronger heater for a large room, while the Innsbrook suits a smaller opening and a buyer who wants a basic on/off millivolt unit.

• Choose the Monessen Solstice if you want the most heat and the largest fire view, and your fireplace opening can take a 33-inch-wide, 16-inch-deep insert.
• Choose the Empire Innsbrook if your opening is small or shallow, or you want a straightforward millivolt insert with a steel surround and a mesh safety screen.