Description
The Kozy Heat Chaska 34 is a slim-profile direct-vent gas fireplace insert engineered specifically for older masonry fireplaces where deeper inserts simply won’t fit. With a modulating 18,500 to 34,000 BTU/hr burner, 77% efficiency, just 16 inches of depth, and three media options (log, rock, or glass), the Chaska 34 turns an old wood-burning fireplace into a clean, efficient, customizable gas unit in installations that other inserts can’t physically accommodate.
What Makes the Chaska 34 Different
The slim 16-inch depth is the Chaska 34’s defining feature. Many gas inserts (including the Kozy Heat Nordik 34i) require 24 inches of fireplace cavity depth or more. Older masonry fireplaces — especially those built before the 1970s — are often only 18-20 inches deep at the back, which means standard inserts simply won’t fit without major masonry modification. The Chaska 34 requires only 16-3/8 inches of cavity depth, opening installation possibilities that wider inserts can’t match.
If you’ve already measured your existing fireplace and discovered it’s too shallow for most gas inserts, the Chaska 34 was specifically engineered for your situation.
Beyond the slim depth, the Chaska 34 offers features that set it apart from typical entry-level inserts:
- Modulating burner technology — output continuously adjusts between 18,500 and 34,000 BTU/hr based on room temperature demand, rather than the cycling on/off of single-stage burners. More consistent comfort, lower gas consumption.
- 77.0% efficiency — among the highest efficiencies in Kozy Heat’s insert and retrofit lineup, second only to the Springfield 36 wall-mounted retrofit at 79.5%
- Three media options — choose between Log, Rock, or Glass format firebox media to match your interior style. Most competing inserts offer only one media option (typically logs).
- Light weight (149 lbs) — easier handling during installation than heavier inserts; reduces structural concerns about the existing fireplace hearth supporting the unit
- Ceramic glass — withstands higher operating temperatures than tempered glass; preserves clarity over years of heat cycling
- Direct vent sealed combustion — no indoor air used for combustion, no exhaust into the room, dramatically higher efficiency than the wood-burning fireplace it replaces
Will the Chaska 34 Fit Your Fireplace?
This is the most important question for any gas insert purchase, and the one you need to answer BEFORE ordering. The Chaska 34 requires an existing masonry or factory-built non-combustible fireplace opening that meets these minimum specifications:
| Existing Fireplace Requirement | Minimum |
|---|---|
| Front opening width | At least 33-1/2″ |
| Front opening height | At least 23-1/2″ |
| Back wall width | At least 24-1/2″ |
| Back wall height | At least 17-3/8″ |
| Cavity depth | At least 16-3/8″ (this is the Chaska 34’s key advantage — most other inserts require 20″+ depth) |
| Chimney condition | Solid-fuel masonry or factory-built non-combustible chimney in good structural condition; must be able to accept a co-linear flexible vent through the existing flue |
| Hearth/floor protection | Non-combustible hearth in front of the fireplace per local code requirements |
| Gas line access | Existing gas line or ability to route a new gas line to the insert location |
Specifications
| Brand | Kozy Heat |
|---|---|
| Model | Chaska 34 |
| Product Type | Direct Vent Gas Fireplace Insert |
| BTU Input | 18,500 – 34,000 BTU/hr (modulating) |
| Efficiency | 77.0% |
| Vent Type | Direct Vent (Co-linear through existing chimney) |
| Fuel Type | Natural Gas or Liquid Propane (specify at order; conversion kits available) |
| Overall Width | 33-3/8 in. |
| Overall Height | 23 in. |
| Overall Depth | 16 in. (slim profile) |
| Weight | 149 lbs. |
| Viewing Area | 30-3/4 in. (W) × 17-13/16 in. (H) |
| Glass | Ceramic |
| Burner Type | Modulating (continuous BTU adjustment) |
| Media Options | Log, Rock, or Glass (specify at order) |
| Bedroom Approved | Yes (direct vent design) |
| Min Fireplace Front Width | 33-1/2 in. |
| Min Fireplace Back Width | 24-1/2 in. |
| Min Fireplace Front Height | 23-1/2 in. |
| Min Fireplace Back Height | 17-3/8 in. |
| Min Fireplace Depth | 16-3/8 in. |
| Estimated Heating Area | Up to ~1,200 sq. ft. (varies by insulation, ceiling height, climate) |
| Made In | USA (Hussong Manufacturing, Minnesota) |
Available Options & Accessories
The Chaska 34 offers several customization options to match your interior and use case:
- Media Format — Log, Rock, or Glass (specified at order; one is required)
- Fuel Type — Natural Gas or Liquid Propane (specified at order; conversion kits available)
- Decorative Fronts — exterior trim around the firebox opening. Browse our Fireplace Fronts collection for available styles compatible with the Chaska 34.
- Refractory Liner Options — interior firebox lining visible behind the flame; available options typically include traditional brick, modern panels, or contrast-forward finishes
- Fan Kit — optional add-on that circulates warm air more aggressively, extending heat reach further into the room. Requires 110V power.
- Remote Control Options — basic on/off remote, thermostat remote, or programmable remote
- Vent Kit Components — sized for your specific installation (vent length, configuration, termination type)
For configuration assistance — choosing the right media format, picking the right front and refractory, or planning the install — contact us. We do this every day.
Brand
Kozy Heat®
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