Gas inserts require fuel and power routed into the existing firebox, you mentioned there is no gas, does that mean no gas available or just no gas service installed into your home? Also required is an intake and an exhaust, mine has 2, 4" inch metal flex pipes routed to the roof and attatched to a storm gaurd, your installer will take care of all of this, depending on your fireplace it is relatively easy (except for the no gas part). We had one installed and it remains to be seen if it was a good investment but after a single day, so far I really like it. I live in WI so once it gets really cold then I will decide:)

I am in the process of researching a range hood insert for a 30" dual fuel range. I will need 600 CFM's. It will be vented out of the back towards our driveway, so I do not want an external fan. Recommendations needed.

The price you were quoted is about right. Personally, my preference would be 30" viewable.

For those folks in similar situations the problem with gas inserts is that most manufacturers only make about 3 sizes of inserts - small medium and large. Since an insert has to fit various sized fireplaces they are generally short in height and don't adequately fill the opening hence the outer surround panels to cover out to the existing surface. The largest inserts rarely exceed 24" tall so in a 42" x 42" opening as shown in the sketch above, the gas unit does not fill the opening,and has way too much black surround. Valor Gas Fireplaces makes 4 Insert specific units, but their 7 zero clearance fireplaces can also be used as Inserts if the fireplace is large enough. If your F.P. opening is about 53" W x 54" H you can fit a 50" Linear inside. This means that Valor has 11 inserts, more than any other manufacturer. A Valor H6 fireplace is 42-1/4" w x 34-1/2" H which would fit if you have more than 42" If anyone needs more information contact me. Here is the Valor website for more information www.valorfireplaces.com