Have you been thinking of buying gas logs for your fireplace but don’t know where to start? We’ve created a shoppers guide to help you through the buying process. A few things to think about:
Type: There are three types of gas fireplaces: natural vent, direct vent and vent-free. Within these categories, there are models that are “heater-rated” and those designed solely for decorative purposes. Choosing the right type of fireplace is dictated by regional climate as well as the age and construction of the home and the amount of heat required.
Size: Gas fireplaces can range from small to extremely large. Choosing a size is based on the amount of heat the fireplace needs to generate, if heating is the goal, or the desired aesthetic appearance of the fire.
Location: Today’s technology allows the installation of a gas fireplace into almost any area of the home. A gas fireplace can be installed in the center of a room, under a window, or anywhere a gas line is available. Vent free gas fireplaces have even greater installation flexibility and can be installed against, or recessed into, many interior or exterior walls. When it comes to vent-free gas fireplaces it is important to follow the specific sizing guidelines that are necessary for proper operation and double check with local code bodies to find out what is allowable.
Venting: Natural vented gas fireplaces are designed to vent through the roof using B-vent gas pipe. Direct-vented units vent through the wall behind the fireplace. Vent-free gas fireplaces require no venting.
Features: The operation of a gas fireplace is generally controlled by use of a wall thermostat or by manual control, although some units have remote control devices. Most gas fireplaces have easy push button ignition systems. Gas fireplaces also come with other features such as variable speed fans and glass faces that allow the full view of the fire.
Style: A wide variety of shapes and sizes are available in gas fireplaces, along with design styles from contemporary to traditional to ultra-modern. The style of a gas fireplace is also enhanced by the gas logs that are designed to simulate the look of natural firewood.
Installation: To ensure the safe and reliable installation of a gas fireplace, the HPBA recommends that people use a specialty retailer and certified professional installer. In addition to assessing the construction of the house, the professional will make sure that the installation meets all local and state codes.
Maintenance: Gas fireplaces are clean burning and require little maintenance. Because efficiency and safety is an important issue, the HPBA recommends that a gas fireplace be professionally serviced at least once a year to ensure top performance and aesthetic appearance. A qualified professional inspects the burner, fan, venting, pilot light and thermostat, and even cleans the glass.
The HPBA also recommends that all vents for vented gas fireplaces be inspected on an annual basis by a chimney sweep certified by the Chimney Safety Institute of America. The HPBA also recommends the installation of a carbon monoxide detector with all gas hearth products.
Fuel Requirements: Natural gas and propane are the fuels available for gas fireplaces. Natural gas is the most widely used, while propane is often used where natural gas is not available.
Average Cost: The price of the unit itself is only part of the total cost of owning a gas fireplace. Other requirements include the cost of the chimney and/or installation, annual fuel costs and annual maintenance.
Cost Checklist:
• Gas Fireplace Chimney Installation/Delivery Gas Line (within the house)
• Annual Fuel Costs Annual Maintenance
Gas Fireplace Benefits
• Convenient and instantaneous fire.
• Clean, low-maintenance.
• Realistic wood-like flames.
• Cost-effective fuel consumption and multiple fuel options.
• Flexible installation options.
• Multitude of designs and styles.
