Fireplaces, Heating Stoves, Flues and Chimneys - Ventless fireplaces

The house we bought last year is about 7years old. It has a ventless fireplace. We know repairs need to be made, it would not stay lit, so we could not use it last winter. I had to cover the entire opening with plastic due to a very strong draft, more of a breeze. Now during the summer it's still drafty but there is an odor very much like a damp old basement. Any ideas on solving these problems would be greatly appreciated.

Have it inspected by a qualified chimney sweep company, preferably one with a video camera, before you try to use it.
Too seal off the draft, stuff a piece of insulation batt up in the top of the firebox.
Good Luck!

Hello: treetop58

As additional suggestions, replace the existing fireplaces roof top vent cap, if there is currently one there. If none presently exists, install one or have one installed.

The newer types have additional improvement designs to prevent downdrafts & they also provide spark arrestor design features.

The addition of an approved glass fireplace front, one that is specifically designed for use with that ventless fireplace appliances brand type, will also prevent most, if not all, downdrafts from entering the room.

Disclaimer:
The useage of non vented heating appliances may or may not be legal within your city, state, county or country. Usage of non vented gas appliances poses significant health and safety risks. Usage is not advised, implied, suggested nor recommmended.