If you want to replace the vent free propane with something else, think insert (assuming they make one that's propane capable). Both intake and exhaust come through the chimney. Much safer and provides more heat. Upgrading the insulation in the ceiling will help as well and seal any drafty points of entry such as outlets, windows, and doors. Upgrading the windows to dual pane will help. We have two heat pumps and one ventless propane log set on the main floor. I generally only use it in the early morning or late evening for not much more than a half hour. I'd probably use it more if it were an insert with intake and exhaust going through the chimney. If you are going to make that your permanent home then I would do the upgrades. Usually people skimp on vacation summer homes when it comes to building materials. We have the 100lb propane tank setup. I usually go about 2 years between fills and we have a gas stove. If I changed to an insert I'd be looking at a 500lb tank and also think about generator. You're going to find out how well your heat pump does in the winter soon. If it's over 10 years old you might want to replace that with a more efficient one. If you feel hot heat from the pump then it's running on the electric coils and not the pump.
I did find when I run the fireplace a lot the great room/kitchen stays toasty but the rest of the house cools quite a bit due to the thermostat being in the great room.
Hey Tony,
Vent free fireplaces are potentially one failed sensor away from disaster. They are illegal to sell in MN. Would you consider running your gas water heater or furnace without venting it to the outdoors? I'd go electric space heating if my only other option was ventless. Long term low level CO is not good for you. If you use it, get a good digital CO meter to run in the vicinity. You can google up more, but here's a starter. https://chimneysweeponline.com/hovflett.htm
Yeah I can't say that I've not heard this warning before but after having had 2 vent-free units one log set and one free standing for at least 6 years I find myself unable to make any tangible complaint about them. I kept CO meters in the same rooms and heard more from them when my wife cooked than when the heaters were in use. I also grew up with blue flame wall heaters too.
T Cro, I realize that getting heating suggestions from a Guy in South Texas is almost as bad as a guy (Named Steve) telling you how warm it is in Florida..
BUT,,,,,
As MOB sed,,,, In your situation, if it were me, I'd spend the money for installing a true flue pipe, thru the wall and up, and add in a freestanding wood burner,
I hafta agree; It would be a heck of a lot more efficient and less costly if ya need it,, "and" it works if the power goes off!
Ride safe, Ted
PS: Whut's a basement?
A basement is kinda like a large crawl space but without most of the spiders.
My vent-free works without power too. No fan but plenty o heat.