How to Choose an Efficient and Safe Gas Fireplace
Gas fireplaces bring a touch of coziness to a home. They're great for heating a room when the power goes out, warming you up after a brisk winter walk or adding a bit of romance to a special evening.
What is a Gas Fireplace?
The technology of a gas fireplace is really quite simple. A natural or propane gas burner and simulated logs are enclosed in a firebox. Most have a glass front for easy viewing of the fire. By turning the fireplace on with the flip of a switch, you can create instant ambiance or an immediate heat source. There's no mess involved with a gas fireplace like there is with a wood fireplace or stove.
Why Gas?
At one time most homes used wood burning fireplaces. Today, the majority of fireplaces are gas. Gas is more energy efficient than wood and there's no mess from woodchips or ashes. Gas fireplaces provide a constant supply of fuel and you can turn your fireplace on and off instantly by hitting a switch. With a direct vent gas fireplace, combustion gases have very little chance of escaping from the firebox into your home. Gas, whether natural or propane, is clean burning. When vented outside, they give off a limited amount of particulate emissions and carbon monoxide, which makes them more environmentally friendly than traditional wood fireplaces.
Types of Gas Fireplaces
In recent years, the technology of gas fireplaces has progressed in leaps and bounds. There are basically three different types.
Factory Built - A factory built fireplace may also be referred to as a zero clearance unit. This type of fireplace is usually installed during a renovation project or when a home is being built.
Free Standing - A free standing gas fireplace resembles and old fashioned wood burning stove. These fireplaces are most effective as a source of heat because all surfaces are exposed.
Inserts - Gas fireplace inserts are manufactured to be inserted into the cavity of an existing fireplace. They covert the fireplace from wood burning to gas. If you choose to go with a fireplace insert, the chimney must be completely relined and an approved vent must be installed.
Whatever type of gas fireplace you choose, it has to be installed by a professional heating contractor. However, be sure to check how the vent is installed to ensure energy efficiency and safety.
Choosing a Fireplace
When shopping for a gas fireplace, select a unit that is energy efficient and safe. Today, fireplaces come with a government rating that tells you a lot about the unit you are considering. The fireplace you choose should enhance the décor of your home, as well as act as a source of heat. Here are a few Features to look for when choosing the perfect fireplace.
• A direct-vent unit for energy efficiency and safety
• An automatic starter instead of a pilot light, for more energy efficiency
• A squirrel cage circulating fan. These are quiet and force convective heat into the room
• A ceramic glass front, for transmitting infrared heat from the flame to the room
• A secondary heat exchanger. Units that have them push more heat into your home
• Connectability to ductwork, allowing heat to be evenly distributed through several rooms
• Variable setting controls, allowing you to regulate gas consumption by adjusting the temperature. Check the turn-down range.
Some fireplaces can be turned as low as 20 percent while others can only be adjusted to 70 percent
With these options in mind, you can select the gas fireplace that best fits your space, whether it’s free standing, an insert or built in.
Wayne McCarthy, plumbing and HVAC professional contributed to this article.