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Not all gas fireplaces need a chimney. If you install a ventless gas fireplace, it will release low levels of combustion byproducts back into your living space (instead of pushing them outside through a chimney or vent). Ventless fireplaces burn fuel efficiently, so the emissions are minimal—but they could bother people with allergies or respiratory issues.

Natural gas companies advise only shutting off the gas supply at the meter yourself if you smell natural gas or suspect there is a leak, typically following an emergency. Instead, you can shut off gas to individual appliances when necessary. If you want to turn off your natural gas entirely, you should contact your utility company. You’ll generally also need to acquire a permit to work on your natural gas line.

If your home uses more than one gas appliance, you'll continue to use gas, even outside of the heating season. Your water heater, gas stove and oven, and gas dryer will all use some gas, although typically much less than a furnace. Additionally, those appliances may also have a pilot light that is lit continually, using a small amount even when no one is at home.

Although a gas company supplies gas to homes, connecting gas appliances, like a dryer, is not their responsibility. The primary role of a gas company is to safely deliver gas to a property and maintain the gas supply lines up to a specific point, typically the gas meter or shut off valve. The task of installation is usually taken on by the homeowner or professional dryer installer.