Yearning to spend cold winter nights in front of the fire? Today, technology and innovation have created new direct-vent and vent-free gas fireplaces that provide all the beauty, warmth and pleasures of an open fire without the expense or space requirements of building a chimney.

Manufacturers are quick to point out that adding a clean-burning gas log fireplace to a new or existing home is a fraction of the cost of installing a traditional wood-burning stove or fireplace. Installation is so simple that gas fireplaces can be placed in kitchens, family rooms, living rooms, bedrooms, even bathrooms! Plus, they offer foolproof operation and are highly efficient, which means they burn less natural or propane gas -another money saver.

Most gas fire boxes can be installed against or recessed into any wall that is accessible to a gas line. Many models also work well in a corner arrangement. Some can be inserted into an older wood-burning fireplace, bringing the beauty and warmth of a fireplace with the flip of a switch or even the button on a remote control instead. This can be much more appealing than repeatedly going outside to get armloads of firewood.

The majority of the “logs” are made from ceramic materials that provide generous heat output, a realistic look and bright yellow flames.

Various log sets come in split oak, white birch and other species. Some models have thermostats to control the flame height and heat output, and blower fans to help circulate warm air throughout the room.

Many owners report the blower fan will warm even a big room, making a blustery cold winter night an easy thing to “suffer” through.

You can find numerous photos and descriptions of spectacular gas fireplaces at www.ImproveNet.com.

ImproveNet’s free services include help for homeowners seeking prescreened contractors in their neighborhoods to help install their selections.