Gas Fireplaces

Gas fireplaces can add warmth and elegance to any home. They are now available in a wide variety of sizes, styles, and designs which means there is a fireplace suitable for almost any home. With the various options available in door types, trim colors, panels and surrounds, there are literally hundreds of different looks available – one that would definitely fit into any home’s décor.

So what is a gas fireplace?   In a nutshell, a natural or propane burner and replicated logs are enclosed in a firebox. There is generally a glass front for easy viewing of the fire. A simple turn of a switch brings up the flames and creates an ambiance or immediate heat course. As there are not actual wood logs involved, there is no mess involved as there is with a wood fireplace or wood stove.

What are some of the advantages of a gas fireplace?

• Gas is more energy efficient than wood.
• Gas fireplaces provide a convenient and instant flame, with many flames looking like traditional wood fireplace flames.
• Gas fireplaces provide a constant supply of fuel, even when electricity fails.
• Gas fireplaces come in many designs and styles.
• Gas sources can be natural gas or propane both of which are clean burning.
• Gas fireplaces can be installed almost anywhere in a home as long as natural gas or propane is available. Most installations are zero clearance, which means little space is needed between the unit and combustible materials.

How do you decide which gas fireplace is right for your home? It is important to spend the time when selecting a fireplace to make sure that the gas fireplace fits into the space available and has the look – modern, classic, rustic – that suits the room. It is also important to check local building standards to make sure your unit will meet codes.

Begin by looking at the type of gas fireplaces. There are three types : direct vent, natural vent and vent free. A direct vent fireplace has a completely sealed combustion chamber which allows it to vent directly out a side wall of the home. A natural vent fireplace does not have a sealed combustion chamber and relies on the buoyancy of hot gases to vent effectively. They must be installed either with an existing chimney that meets the local building code standards or they can be installed using a B vent. Vent free fireplaces are fireplaces that do not require any type of vent system. Instead, they are designed to burn clean and the combustion by-products allowed to flow into the room the fireplace is located in. Keep in mind that vent free fireplaces are not legal in some areas.

Next look at the size of the unit. The size you need depends on the amount of heat the fireplace needs to generate and the desired look you are trying to achieve. A large, majestic fireplace can quickly become the focal point of a room.

Once a type and size has been determined, there are several other factors to consider:

Style. Gas fireplaces come in a variety of looks from rustic to classic to contemporary.   There are “see-through units” wall mounted and majestic units that will immediately become the focal point of a room.

Location. A gas fireplace can be installed in almost any area of a home—in the center of the room, under a window or anywhere a gas line is available.

Installation. Fireplace manufacturers recommend using a professional installer to ensure the safe and reliable installation of a gas fireplace. A professional will also make sure that the installation meets all local and state codes.

Maintenance. Gas fireplaces are clean burning and require little maintenance. To make sure the fireplace is running safely and efficiently have it professionally serviced at least once a year. A qualified service technician will check the various parts including the burner, fan, venting, pilot light and thermostat.

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.

Features. Gas fireplaces can come with remote controls, blowers, night lights and even glowing embers.  

Check out some of our most popular Napoleon gas fireplaces!
BGD40	GD36NTR	Park Avenue	Crystallo	Starfire
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