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:
Convenient
and instantaneous fire
-
Clean,
low-maintenance
-
Realistic
wood-like flames
-
Flexible
installation options
-
Multitude
of designs and styles
Source: HPBA.org
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