Gas fireplaces are a sensible and smart alternative for those who want to enjoy the cozy warmth of a fireplace, without the chores of storing and burning wood and cleaning ashes. Gas fireplaces are environmental friendly and have several advantages over the conventional wood burning fireplaces. They are much easier to operate and are more energy-efficient. Unlike the wood burning fireplaces, gas fireplaces do not allow for the accumulation of creosote, which is a highly explosive substance produced by the burning of wood.
Usually fueled with propane or natural gas, natural gas is more widely used as it has lower emissions of carbon monoxide, toxic pollutants, and particulate emission. The natural gas fireplaces use ceramic or other imitation logs mounted on a metal rack, similar to that in wood burning fireplaces.
Natural vent, direct vent, and vent-free are the venting options. Natural vented gas fireplaces are vented through the roof using special B-vent gas pipes. They must also be installed near a gas line. Direct vent gas fireplaces operate without electricity and are directly vented to the outside through a hole in the exterior wall. They are sealed combustion units that prevent the spreading of toxic combustion gases into the room in which they are installed. In vent-free gas fireplaces, as the name indicates, venting to the outside is not required. The sleek shape of vent-free gas fireplaces makes them easier to install almost anywhere in the house.
Gas fireplace insert is the perfect choice in case an existing wood fireplace is to be converted to a gas fireplace. Gas fireplace inserts perfectly fit into the wood fireplace and are vented to the outside atmosphere either through the chimney or a special vent pipe.
Both indoor and outdoor gas fireplaces are available. A wall thermostat controls most of the indoor models. Some are coupled with automatic controls and handheld remotes. Easy push button ignition, variable speed fans, and glass faces are also available in gas fireplaces.