Choosing a Gas Fireplace for your Home

With more homeowners seeking greener and cleaner-burning alternative heating solutions, gas fireplaces are a popular choice. Gas fireplaces burn clean, offer continuous heat, and are easier to clean and maintain. They are also a lot easier to operate. But how do you choose the right gas fireplace for your home? Here are a few tips to make your choice easier.

Determine its primary purpose

Before you even head out to the hearth store, you need to ask yourself what the primary purpose will be for the fireplace: heat or aesthetics. If the primary reason is for warming your home, then choose a gas fireplace with higher heating efficiency. Fireplaces with higher heating efficiencies will cost less to heat your space. On the other hand, if your primary purpose is for appearance, then choose a well-styled fireplace with a beautiful and elegant appearance that enhances the interior style of your living space.

Select control options

When it comes to a gas fireplace, there are several convenient options for controlling the flames. Some models have front-mounted controls on the unit. It allows you to turn on and off the fireplace by flipping a switch. The second option is a wall-mounted switch in the living space. A wall switch makes operating the fireplace as easy as turning on any light in your house. The third option is the remote control. It is an ultimate convenience. With a remote in hand, you can operate the fireplace and control the heating temperature without getting off the couch. A remote-control option is available on many gas fireplaces. If you misplace the remote, you can still operate the flames by flipping the switch on the unit.

Direct vent vs. ventless

When choosing a gas fireplace, the type of venting is another factor to consider. There are both vented and ventless models. The ventless or vent-free option is an excellent choice for homes that do not have an existing chimney or lacks the space for a traditional wood-burning hearth, such as in a condo or townhome. It also offers the highest heating efficiency because it retains all of the heat. The installation costs are also less since it’s not connected to a chimney or vent. You have the flexibility to install a ventless gas fireplace in any room in the home. However, being ventless also means that some gas fumes are released into your home, so your living space should be well ventilated.

Direct vent gas fireplaces connect to an existing chimney or vent. Since a vent is required, you will need to install the gas fireplace on a wall where a vent can be established that will allow the carbon monoxide and other gases to escape your home. Direct vent limits placement in your home, but it offers up to 70% heating efficiency and improves indoor air quality. Gas fireplace inserts can also be installed directly inside an existing fireplace for a more authentic experience. It’s a great way to convert an inefficient wood-burning fireplace into an efficient and clean-burning gas fireplace.

Since 1984, Complete Chimneys has provided customers with high-quality chimney services and repairs at affordable prices. The safety and warmth of our customers is goal number one. Call us at (410) 544-7600 for a quote for installation of an efficient new gas heating appliance, a chimney inspection, chimney cleaning, or chimney repairs.