Gas Fireplace Inserts

Facts & Figures About Gas Fireplace Inserts

Your days of worrying about the hassle of starting a fire are over! You can now have a beautiful fire in your fireplace that doesn’t require any wood or wood pellets and still gives you that warm, comfortable feeling. All you have to do is choose one of the many gas fireplace inserts that are readily available. A gas insert will provide you and your loved ones with hours and hours of enjoyable warmth and coziness. When you are out looking for a gas insert, make sure that you understand the differences between brands and models. Ask lots of questions so that you can make an informed decision.

Gas fireplaces do use your existing chimney so make sure that you have it cleaned before installing the unit. Many retail stores selling inserts will include the cost of a chimney sweep in the selling price. Safety needs to be your primary concern so make sure that you purchase a brand that has a good safety and performance record.

There are two types of gas inserts that might work for you. They are known as conventionally vented and direct vented inserts. Conventionally vented models are more efficient and seem to perform the best. They come equipped with a durable 4-inch aluminum flex vent that stretches to the top of your chimney. This results in a more efficient way to vent the gas fumes outside. On the other hand, direct vented models use two aluminum flex vents – one to expel the gas fumes and one to bring in combustion air. They are not as popular and function less efficiently than conventionally vented insert models. However, they are safer in homes that are tightly sealed, with little combustion air available.

Buying a gas fireplace insert is not difficult but there are some things that you need to watch for. 1. Be very sure that the model you choose follows all national safety standards. 2. Don’t assume that a well-known fireplace insert manufacturer produces the best product. The manufacturer may charge you more for a product that is exactly like one offered by a less-known company. 3. Determine the gauges of the materials that make up the insert. Thicker steel generally means better quality. 4. Don’t buy an insert just because it looks good in a brochure! Visit your local dealer to see how your unit will actually look when it is operating.