Gas Fireplaces    

Everyone is sure to find a gas fireplace to suit their home with so many designs, styles and sizes available.  They cannot be beat for convenience and ease of use; offering a huge list of features.  Naturally, gas fireplaces are one of the “hottest” hearth products on the market whether you’re building a new home, addition, or remodeling your existing dwelling. A gas fireplace offers incredible installation flexibility along with a wide variety of log styles. Best of all, the fire in a gas fireplace is now so realistic, it is very difficult to tell it from real wood.

Do you need heat?

A gas fireplace is a factory-built firebox with a glass face for viewing the fire. Some designs are strictly for looks, and others for heat. Still others are termed “heater-rated” and provide as much heat and efficiency as a central furnace. Some models also offer ducting to help distribute the heat wherever you need it.

However, how realistic are they?

Sure, cuddling up in front of a fire is one of the best reasons to own a gas fireplace.  However, do they really look like authentic?   After years of research and development, burner design has progressed to the point that some fireplaces produce a fire so closely resembling a wood burning fire, that its nearly impossible for even the experts to tell the difference.  These beautiful units now can offer everyone the chance to relax in front of a fire at the touch of a button. In addition, many of them can operate without electricity, providing comfort during those cold winter storms.

Where can I install them?

Just about anywhere, as long as either natural or propane gas is available.  You may install them on an outside wall or even in the middle of the room. Zero clearance construction makes this installation flexibility possible. Very little space is necessary between the unit and combustibles such as wood, drywall or carpeting.  Making installation options easier is the choices of venting options such as natural vent, direct vent or vent-free.   A gas fireplace can be installed in the center of a room, under a window or anywhere a gas line is available.  Vent free models have even more flexibility. They can be installed against, or recessed into many interior or exterior walls.

Whatever you choose, follow your manufacturer’s guidelines for installation and seek professional advice. Our friendly, knowledgeable sales staff is on call 24 hrs. a day, 7 days a week at 800-878-8064.

Check Points

• Type:  Natural vent, direct vent and vent-free. Some are heater-rated, others are decorative.  Consider your climate, the age and construction of your home and the amount of heat required.
• Size:  Based on the amount of heat required or the look you’re trying to achieve.
• Location:  Just about anywhere.  Check with your manufacturer or retailer.
• Venting: Natural vent vents through the roof using b-vent gas pipe. Direct vent units vent through the wall behind the fireplace.  Vent-free models require no venting.
• Features:  Wall thermostats, manually controlled or remote control as well as  push button ignition and variable speed fans are all available on many models.
• Style: Everything from contemporary and traditional to ultra-modern.  Gas logs can simulate oak, pine, or even driftwood.
• Installation:  The Hearth Patio and Barbecue Association recommends using a certified professional to assure meeting all local and state codes.
• Maintenance: Very little other than an annual inspection and chimney sweep.
• Fuel Requirements: Most commonly natural gas. Propane can be used where natural gas is unavailable.
• Average Cost:  Added to the cost of the unit would be the costs of the chimney, installation, annual fuel costs and annual maintenance.

Benefits Include: