Linear Fireplace Buying Guide

Urban industrial living space with arched windows in two-story wall and luxury linear fireplace in cement facade.

The linear fireplace segment of the fireplace market is experiencing significant growth in both new and existing homes. Many consumers are drawn to linear fireplaces thanks in part to the wealth of options available today. From contemporary, sleek designs to more traditional looking fireplaces, linear fireplaces offer something for everyone.

Today’s linear fireplaces have significantly grown in popularity in recent years. Here’s why: not only is the rectangular shape of linear fireplaces conducive to consumers’ interest in sleek, contemporary designs, but they can be installed in a variety of spaces – thanks in part to the two distinct fireplace options: direct vent gas linear fireplaces, which are vented, and linear electric fireplaces, which require no venting.

Linear fireplaces offer a distinctive vertical element resulting in an elongated width and a shorter height. This modern nod results in a sleek, streamlined design for any space.

As far as venting a linear gas fireplace, the venting is the same as a standard direct-vent fireplace. Your chosen hearth installation professional can assist with the best venting strategy for your home. Of course, the beauty of electric linear fireplaces is that they require no venting, making them a great option for those looking to add the ambience of a fireplace, with or without heat, all year long.

Benefits of a Linear Fireplace

The design of a linear fireplace lends itself well to a more contemporary look and allows for this style of fireplace to be placed in a unique spot in a home. And because a linear fireplace is shorter, it’s aesthetically easy to install a television above.

“With linear, there are a lot more options in how you can use the fireplace,” says Monica Turner, category director, linear fireplaces at Hearth & Home Technologies, Heat & Glo’s parent company.

You may have more of a traditional fireplace in one area of your home. Adding a linear fireplace to another area of your home is a fun way to add warmth to those spaces. “For example, a linear fireplace can be installed higher on a wall behind a soaking tub for added ambience to the space,” Turner says. Or perhaps you want to add a linear fireplace to an entry. These fireplaces offer a wealth of options to creating cozy areas in your home.”

Alcove tub has see-through linear gas fireplace on shared wall with bedroom suite.

A relaxing bath is taken to the next level with the addition of a Mezzo linear gas fireplace.

“For example, a linear fireplace can be installed higher on a wall behind a soaking tub for added ambience to the space,” Turner says. Or perhaps you want to add a linear fireplace to an entry. These fireplaces offer a wealth of options to creating cozy areas in your home.”

The Basics

A specialty hearth installation professional will work with you to help determine the best size of linear fireplace for your chosen space. In addition, you will want to evaluate if installing an electric or gas fireplace is more ideal for your home.

Direct vent linear gas fireplaces require no chimney as the combustion gas is expelled through a wall-mounted vent or through the roof. And with the additional element of optional heat management systems, linear fireplaces can allow for hanging artwork or televisions above the fireplace.

The Primo II’s heat management system allows you to hang a TV safely above the fireplace without the need for a mantel.

And better yet, these fireplaces offer a level of convenience that homeowners have come to love. From remote controlled functions to zone heating of a specific area of your home, linear fireplaces complement a home’s central heating systems.

The cost to operate gas linear fireplaces varies by the type of chosen design, including the BTUs for the unit and the cost of gas in your area. On average, the cost to operate a gas fireplace is about $1/hour. The larger size Primo II and Mezzo linear gas fireplaces cost about $1.50 per hour, while the 36” units cost approximately $0.75/hour to operate while electric linear fireplaces can run between one and 18 cents per hour.

Options Aplenty

Whether you choose a gas or electric linear fireplace depends on your preferred or available fuel choice, the selected placement of the fireplace, desired heat output, budget and your home’s overall design. The wealth of linear fireplace options means you can find the perfect option for your home or select a customizable version to make your fireplace your own.

Electric Linear Fireplaces

Without venting, gas lines or screens, linear electric fireplaces are the perfect solution for adding a fireplace to most places within your home.

“With electric fireplaces you don’t need hot air venting, which opens up many opportunities to place the linear fireplace almost anywhere within new construction or in remodeling situations,” says Joe Kuefler, director, brand marketing at Hearth & Home Technologies. “There are some situations where gas simply isn’t an option and that’s where electric fireplaces come in.” As no significant heat is generated, a linear electric fireplace can enhance a home’s ambience all year long.

Allusion Platinum Electric Fireplace

Long linear electric fireplace with orange embers and flames showing through driftwood logs.

For those looking for an electric linear fireplace that makes a strong statement, the Allusion Platinum is a perfect option. Thanks to a minimal frame, larger viewing area, less noticeable heat vents and clean finish, the Allusion Platinum is reminiscent of its linear gas fireplace counterparts.

Scion Electric Linear Fireplace

Distinctive and dramatic, the Scion is a built-in electric linear fireplace that offers a large viewing area, as well as a deep fire bed that can be enhanced with either clear crystal or driftwood logs (glowing embers come standard). To further add an air of sophistication to the fireplace, accent lighting subtly showcases the fireplace sleek design. And because the Scion is built-in rather than fully or partially recessed, there is more flexibility with finishing material options.

Gas

A favorite among architects, designers and homeowners alike, linear gas fireplaces offer the convenience of traditional gas fireplaces but with an added sleek, contemporary and versatile design attributes that are ideal for today’s homes. Featuring modern, clean lines, today’s linear gas fireplaces are perfect accoutrements to both contemporary and traditionally designed dwellings.

Cosmo

Modern gas fireplace with smooth river rock media and ribbon flame in reflective black interior.

Clean and chic, Cosmo is the ideal linear indoor gas fireplace in terms of both cost and design. The perfect complement to a state-of-the-art television hanging above, this linear fireplace is a favorite among homeowners thanks in part to the generous amount of heat it provides.

Mezzo

Linear see-through gas fireplace with Iced Fog crystal media and Natural charred logs with view to dining table.

Offering a clean, sleek finish with minimal metal, the Mezzo features both a see-through option (shown above) as well as single-sided. The see-through option provides viewing opportunities from two rooms at once, which adds a unique flair to any room. Natural stone facing can be added to surround the Mezzo with a touch of subtle elegance.

Primo II

Luxurious and elegant living room with slate and dark yellow tones

Seamlessly integrated into the wall, the Primo II is a high-end fireplace that is offers a stand-alone aesthetic that complements any space. The Primo II boasts a heat management system that provides the ideal amount of heat for maximum comfort throughout the year.

Enlight Single-Sided Linear Gas Fireplace from Stellar by Heat & Glo

Close-up of luxury linear fireplace with bold flames rising through crystal glass and driftwood logs.

The Enlight single-sided linear gas fireplace from Stellar by Heat & Glo is a very customizable fireplace offering many options to select from to make it your own or fit with the style of your new (or newly renovated) home. This may include adding logs to the fireplace or using river rock, which provides a more earthy, organic design. Or perhaps crushed glass media with a multi-colored light affect adds a modern flair to the fireplace. The Enlight offers high contrast and brilliant lighting through its LED multi-colored firebed lighting.

Lanai

The Lanai is an outdoor linear gas fireplace specifically engineered to withstand the elements. Outfitted with a similar feature-set options as indoor linear models, the Lanai can be installed in your home’s exterior envelope or within a free-standing apparatus, you can you can bring this amenity into your space at any time, before or after construction. Want to really make an impression? Pair the outdoor lanai with a nearby water feature and deliver a dramatic fire/water look to wow the neighbors.

Custom

A custom linear fireplace from Stellar by Heat & Glo allows you the utmost in flexibility when it comes to personalization. In fact, the entire hearth – from its size, shape, orientation (think: vertical fireplace) down to the color and type of “media” (e.g. logs, stone or glass) can be fine-tuned to best represent your personal style, the décor theme of your space and the larger architectural features of your home. These made-to-order products are a signature home showpiece and ensure that no other property will have a hearth feature quite like yours. View examples from Stellar that further elevate the presentation of fire. allows you the utmost in flexibility when it comes to personalization. In fact, the entire hearth – from its size, shape, orientation (think: vertical fireplace) down to the color and type of “media” (e.g. logs, stone or glass) can be fine-tuned to best represent your personal style, the décor theme of your space and the larger architectural features of your home. These made-to-order products are a signature home showpiece and ensure that no other property will have a hearth feature quite like yours. View examples from Stellar by Heat & Glo that further elevate the presentation of fire.

Would you like to learn more or purchase the ideal linear fireplace for your home? Request a free, no obligation consultation with a local hearth expert to find the ideal linear fireplace for your space.