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Peterson Real Fyre 24 Inch Post Oak Log Set Review

March 7, 2012 By admin Leave a Comment

The Peterson Real Fyre 24 Inch Post Oak Log Set with Vented Natural Gas G4 Burner is a gas operated fire place, designed for indoor use. The Peterson Real Fyre is a gas fireplace with artificial logs and a real fire. The log set can be lit indoors with the use of a match and runs on the gas emitted from the main valve. Designed with refractory ceramics, the product claims a long life span and comes with a life time warranty.

Since this set uses cosmetic logs instead of real ones, it serves as an alternate to wood. Designed like real logs, these have a crusted bark, exposed sapwood and simulated knots that give this cosmetic wood a real look. The set weighs approximately 96 pounds and fits most standard fireplaces. The Peterson Real Fyre comes with a G4 burner that has a single pipe within the burner pan and gas ports within the entire length of the burner, help in creating more flames that appear realistic. The set also comes with silica sand spread over the burner and embers that gives the flames more color and realism.

Pros of the Peterson Real Fyre 24 Inch Post Oak Log Set

The Peterson Real Fyre definitely has people talking. The biggest advantage this log set provides is that it is easy to install and does not come with a huge book full of instructions. Unlike a traditional fireplace, that constantly needs wood and other material to be lit, the Peterson is not messy and does not require a lot of work, all it needs is a functional gas line tube and matches. Another plus for the Peterson is that it is durable and comes with a life time warranty. This is not a fragile set and withstands quite a lot of moving and handling. The logs are very realistic and burn very well, all the time looking pretty amazing. When lit, the Peterson looks just like a real fire place and gets many compliments. Best of all, it is attractive, safe and easy to turn off and actually gives off good heat, even when set to low, which makes it a great money saving gas fireplace.

Cons of the Peterson Real Fyre 24 Inch Post Oak Log Set

On the downside, many people find the Peterson a tad bit too expensive, especially compared to the cost of maintaining and keeping a real fireplace. In order to keep this gas fireplace safe, a safety valve has to be installed. That also costs around $150, making the set much more expensive. Even though the logs are quite realistic, the burner and connections have to be covered, as they give an unrealistic appearance to the Peterson and cannot be left around especially in a house with children or pets. The instructions regarding the inlet is difficult, and the set comes with an inlet on the right, making it a hassle for those who have a gas inlet on the left in their fireplace. Although this can be fixed by switching your gas inlet to the other side, it is an additional hassle, especially if you do not know how to switch the inlet, which requires calling in a professional.

Peterson Real Fyre 24-inch Post Oak Log Set With Vented Natural Gas G4 Burner - Match Light
List Price: ~~$348.00~~
Price: $287.30
Read Reviews

Overall this product is a good buy if you really are the kind of person who spends a lot of time in their living room and live in a place that is cold more often than not. The Peterson gets quite a lot of compliments and has an aesthetic appeal, so it is definitely a good buy for people who entertain guests at home often. For all the above it is definitely a great investment and pretty hassle free.

ProCom Dual Fuel Vent-Free Gas Log Set Review

February 16, 2012 By admin 1 Comment

The ProCom Dual Fuel Vent-Free Gas Log Set offers the efficiency of a wood burning fireplace, without all of the hassle that a real fireplace gives. This unit provides unparalleled warmth and style that will compliment any decor and is hand painted to look like genuine wood burning in a fireplace.

This gas fireplace log from the experts at ProCom set lets the customer switch between natural gas and liquid propane for optimal ease of use. Propane use requires a 100 lb or larger tank that is not included and available at most gas supply companies. It is equipped with a thermostat control with five settings that allow you to adjust temperatures as you see fit while real flames add warmth and comforting atmosphere to any room. The unit sits on a heavy duty iron grate and offers 32,000 BTU’s of output. However the regulator, flex hose, and blower are not included with this unit, the manufacturers warranty that comes along with it spans 12 months, limited parts.

Pros of the ProCom Dual Fuel Vent-Free Gas Log Set

Customers that have purchased this unit absolutely adore the ProCom Gas Log Set and overall have only great things to say about it. They have noted that the CO2 levels in their homes have not changed, which sometimes happens with other gas burning appliances. One happy customer also noticed that it heats evenly and gives no cause for health problems such as headache, nausea, and sleeplessness. It was praised for being very easy to set up and control, and most customers say that they would recommend them to anyone. Customer reviews also show that the price for this unit is very affordable and worth every penny that is paid for it.

Cons of the ProCom Dual Fuel Vent-Free Gas Log Set

There are very few negative comments about this gas fireplace. One reviewer noted that the instructions were a little drawn out and redundant and that the unit came with what appeared to be charcoal that they could not find a use for. It was said that it might take a day or two to get used to the noise that comes from the gas fireplace. The noise is not said to be loud but you can hear the gas flowing. Most customers also really wanted a remote control for the gas fireplace, but that did not deter them from wanting to purchase this item. Another customer noticed that they got minimal gas residue on the windows in their home from the gas fireplace.

ProCom Dual Fuel Vent-Free Gas Log Set - 32,000 BTU, Model# PCD24TD
List Price: ~~$349.99~~
Price: $317.09
Read Reviews

Overall, the ProCom Dual Fuel Vent-Free Gas Log Set is very highly rated. It is perfect for large or small spaces due to the adjusting thermostat feature. It is largely for people that want to heat their homes or spaces with log fireplace comfort and mood, while not wanting to deal with the mess that they would have to worry about with a regular fireplace. It is perfect for those looking to convert their wood burning fireplace into a gas fireplace. Customers who want to purchase this unit have nothing to lose and everything to gain choosing the ProCom Dual Fuel Vent-Free Gas Log Set for their home.

Filed Under: Gas Fireplace, Gas Fireplace Accessories, Gas Fireplace Reviews Tagged With: ceramic logs, gas fireplace, gas fireplace reviews, ProCom

ProCom Compact Vent-Free Dual Fuel Gas Fireplace Review

February 3, 2012 By admin Leave a Comment

The ProCom Compact Vent-Free Dual Fuel Fireplace is able to provide heat to any room in the home. This fireplace does not require a vent. Consumers can fit the model into any area of the home. The small size ensures a fit in the tiniest corner of any room. Natural gas or propane can be used to supply the power that is needed for this gas fireplace to produce a glowing flame that will enhance the ambiance and décor of any room. Efficiency is assured with this product, and it is over 99.9 percent efficient.

About the ProCom Compact Vent-Free Dual Fuel Fireplace

Consumers will benefit from the small size of the ProCom fireplace. It can be installed in a room’s corner or against the wall. It provides 20,000 BTUs. This is ideal for heating rooms that are up to 700 square feet. There is a built in thermostat that controls the heat output. An oxygen sensor will turn the appliance off if the oxygen levels reach low levels. The warmth of a natural fire is complemented by the natural wood cabinet and will ensure a luxurious finish to the home. This product is only 29 inches wide, 14 inches deep and 37.48 inches high.

Pros

Supplemental heating can be used to lower the overall heating bills, and this gas fireplace provides 20,000 BTUs. This is more than enough to heat the coldest rooms of the home. Efficiency is another benefit that consumers love about their ProCom. It is over 99.9 percent efficient. This provides for lower overall utility bills, and this model can provide supplemental heating for the entire home. It will quickly warm up and provides an abundance of heat that will be felt throughout the home. The cabinet also looks great and will complement the natural flames that are clearly visible through the clear doors. These features make this product a great buy for the home.

Cons

A thermostat is included on this gas fireplace, but most consumers are not pleased with the ease of use that it provides. It is difficult to reach. The controls are found close to the floor level, and owners will have to bend over to turn the knobs. Many owners have to get on their hands and knees in order to change the settings. There is also an optional fan that can be purchased with this model. This will cost extra money though. Most buyers feel there is enough heat that a fan should be standard on the model.

Conclustion

Consumers will be sure to enjoy all the benefits that are offered with the ProCom vent free dual fuel fireplace. This gas fireplace provides a warm glow and comes with a great looking wooden cabinet. Buyers should consider this product if they want to provide a supplemental heating source that is aesthetically pleasing as well as functional.

With 99.9 percent efficiency, this unit can provide a good source of supplemental heating for any sized home on any budget. The only negative thing about this model is that the controls are on the floor. However, once they have been set, there are no problems with the ProCom maintaining a warm atmosphere that will be felt throughout the home. An optional blower is a good idea and can help to distribute the abundant heat this gas fireplace provides.

Best Deal on this Gas Fireplace:

ProCom Compact Vent-Free Dual Fuel Fireplace with Corner Conversion Kit - 20,000 BTU, Medium Oak Veneer, Model# EDP200T2-MO
List Price: ~~$729.99~~
Price: $563.34
Read Reviews

Filed Under: Gas Fireplace, Gas Fireplace Reviews Tagged With: gas fireplace, gas fireplace reviews, ProCom

Monessen CDVR36NV 36″ Rear Direct Vent Natural Gas Fireplace Review

January 20, 2012 By admin Leave a Comment

The Monessen 36″ Rear Direct Vent Natural Gas Fireplace (CDVR36NV) is a fireplace model which combines elegance with practicality and durability. It is American made and comes with a number of features that make it appealing. The product is burned and leak tested at the factory to insure quality in performance and safety before it goes retail. With the included gas log system it eliminates the soot and ash associated with wood burning units. The manufacturer adheres to strict environmental guidelines for cleanliness and waste management, and they also strive to make their products energy efficient. So with this gas fireplace you can be pleased to know that it has been made as energy efficient as possible, thus helping the planet and saving you money too. It is also a beautiful unit, so it will be a focal point for any room in the house as you relax with family or entertain friends.

Monessen CDVR36NV 36" Rear Direct Vent Natural Gas Fireplace
List Price:
Price: $864.90
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The Monessen 36″ Rear Direct Vent Natural Gas Fireplace has several notable features. It uses 20,000 BTU’s of power and has a removable unitized black louver system for ease of installation. Glowing ceramic fiber logs feature a patented Natural Flame aluminized pan burner with random dancing flames and a large ember bed. The logs are realistically hand-painted to create life-like details. There’s also a variable Hi/Lo flame control, 15 feet of pre-installed Millivolt wire with wall switch and cover, and 18 inches of Flex line with an On/Off shut-off valve included. This Monessen Gas Fireplace is CSA design certified. It’s approved for installation with Simpson Dura Vent, Selkirk Metalbestos or Metal Fab Direct Vent chimneys. An electrical junction box is included for hook up. The valve is remote ready, but the remote is not included. Optional brick liners and BLOT variable thermostat forced air blowers are available. For the original owner with proof of purchase, there’s a lifetime warranty on firebox, combustion chamber, heat exchanger, grate, and stainless steel burners and a five year warranty on the ceramic fiber logs. It comes with a basic warranty on components and materials in the gas appliance to be free of manufacturing or material defects for two years from installation date. Again this is with proof of purchase.

Customer reviews for the Monessen 36″ Rear Direct Vent Natural Gas Fireplace are limited. A couple of reviews, one with a rating of 5 out of 5 stars and the other with no rating at all, praised the fireplace for its attractive design and material durability. Affordability was also noted as a positive as well as the practicality in features. One customer listed an investment in the optional remote control as a plus while the other raved about the realistic detail of the logs and flame.

There were no noted negative customer reviews of the Monessen 36″ Rear Direct Vent Natural Gas Fireplace. The company has an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau and claims to be committed to providing customers with unparalleled customer service and outstanding product quality.

The Monessen 36″ Rear Direct Vent Natural Gas Fireplace is a product which is aesthetic in appearance, manufacture tested for performance, and built with plenty of convenient features. Monessen Hearth Systems Company, the manufacturer of the product is in Paris, Kentucky, so it’s a plus that it’s made in the USA. If you are green oriented, Monessen is an environmentally conscious company as far as waste management and energy efficiency. The smart consumer can rest assured that the fireplace is durable and well made, and there’s the added protection of the included warranties to back this quality product.

Filed Under: Gas Fireplace, Gas Fireplace Reviews Tagged With: gas fireplace, gas fireplace reviews, Monessen CDVR36NV

Gas Fireplace Review: ProCom Dual Fuel Stove

January 10, 2012 By admin Leave a Comment

The ProCom Model QD250T Dual Fuel Stove is a versatile, lightweight gas fireplace that provides an attractive alternative to old-style cast iron wood stoves or traditional baseboard heat. Its 13 x 33 x 26 size makes it adaptable to most rooms and it provides a traditional look with its black, powder coated finish, cast iron legs, and hand painted logs. The versatility of fuel options, either natural gas or liquid propane, along with the benefit of vent-free 99% efficiency make ProCom’s 25,000 btu offering an attractive alternative to traditional heat sources.

The ProCom QD250T gas fireplace is recommended for spaces up to 1,000 square feet. Product weight is only 56.5 pounds, it comes complete with a battery assisted Piezo ignition (AAA batteries included), oxygen depletion sensor and 5 hand painted ceramic logs that have been enhanced for realistic look and longevity. Optional equipment includes the model QEB100 blower that enhances heat delivery and the 2″ tall hearth pad with cherry wood finish.

ProCom Dual Fuel Stove - 25,000 BTU, Model# QD250T
List Price: ~~$419.99~~
Price: $329.85
Read Reviews

Consumers are generally very satisfied with the QD250T gas fireplace, drawing a four star rating on Amazon.com. Most rave about the effectiveness, convenience of installation, and aesthetics. It provides an excellent supplemental heat source and, in some cases, has been known to exceed the 1,000 square foot performance range, depending on conditions. It is less expensive to operate in comparison to most electric baseboard heating systems and provides a clean and hassle free alternative to wood burning stoves. The black, powder-coated finish mates nicely with the optional cherry wood hearth pad giving the ProCom gas fireplace a traditional look and consumers appreciate the limited clearance requirements, 12″ to any side wall and 6″ to rear wall, that allow for convenient location in most rooms.

While customer reviews have been largely positive, ProCom’s duel fuel gas fireplace does come with some minor drawbacks. For propane use it requires a 100 pound tank that is not mentioned in sales literature. The tank adds to installation expense. With natural gas installations the cost of hiring a plumber to run a gas line may prove prohibitive if there is not one near the desired location. Additionally, the 250T comes with only a one-year warranty and does not include a remote control. That QD250RT model includes a remote and three-year warranty.

ProCom’s Model QD250T Dual Fuel Stove does a nice job of combining old school looks with 21st century performance. When replacing electric, wood burning, or vented gas heating units most agree that the ProCom gas fireplace greatly reduces heating costs. It is an effective unit with well thought out design. Improvements in RT unit in warranty in remote accessibility outdistance it from the 250t, but overall the ProCom Model QD250T Dual Fuel Stove is a favorable option for consumers looking to replacing aging heat units.

Filed Under: Gas Fireplace, Gas Fireplace Reviews Tagged With: gas fireplace, gas fireplace reviews, ProCom, propane fireplace

Answers to Common Gas Fireplace Questions

December 20, 2011 By admin Leave a Comment

Here at Gas Fireplace Headquarters we get a lot of email with questions people have about their gas fireplaces. We thought we’d answer some of the more common questions in one post. Here are our answers to three common questions about gas fireplace ownership:

Why is my Gas Fireplace cutting off?
How many BTUs does a gas fireplace produce?
Can I burn wood in my gas log fireplace?

Why is my Gas Fireplace cutting off?

A common problem among gas fireplace owners is that the fireplace will turn itself off in the middle of use. When this happens the pilot light will also go out. This is understandably frustrating for many because one must first light the pilot light before they can turn on the fireplace.The fact that the pilot light goes out is a good thing. This means that your gas fireplace’s safety mechanism is working, which is designed to turn off the gas flow if your fireplace stops burning while the gas is still flowing.

Normally your gas fireplace will turn off like this because of an obstruction along the burners. An obstruction can be anything from dust to cobwebs. You can safely clear any obstructions by getting a can of compressed air and spraying around the burners. You may need to remove the safety glass and ceramic logs to gain access to the burners, so be sure to refer to your fireplace manual on the proper procedure. You may need to do this every year before you start using your fireplace.

If the gas fireplace continues to shut off, consult a certified expert to come inspect your gas line and set up.

How many Btu does a gas fireplace produce?

Btu stands for British Thermal Unit. It is a system of measuring heat, or energy, output. When used to measure heat output, it is calculated as Btu per hour in order to give an estimation as to the amount of heat that is output in that time frame.

Depending on the size and type of your natural gas fireplace, they can use anywhere from 8,500 Btu per hour to 100,000 Btu per hour. By comparison, the average conventional stove burner uses 9500 Btu of heat on its highest setting. This is why you normally only want to run your gas fireplace while you’re in the room, otherwise you’re wasting a lot of energy.

Sources:
http://www.mudomaha.com/service/pdfs/gasappliancecosts.pdf
http://hearth.com/econtent/index.php/articles/general_qa_about_gas

Can I burn wood in my gas log fireplace?

This is a surprisingly common question. If it’s not surprising to you, then you’ve come to the right place.

The answer to this is without a doubt no!

First of all, the purpose of a gas fireplace is to avoid burning wood in the first place. If you absolutely need to burn wood, then don’t use a gas fireplace. The reasons are too numerous to go into here, but the most important reasons are:

You don’t want an uncontrolled open flame near a gas line.
Wood ash will clog your gas burners, rendering your gas fireplace inoperable.

The bottom line is gas fireplaces are made to replace wood burning fireplaces and are specially designed not to need wood. Burning wood in your gas fireplace will not only break it, but it is a major safety hazard.

If a natural wood burning look is what you’re after, we’ve got you covered. Gas fireplace technology has reached the point where ceramic log inserts capture the realism of burning wood better than ever before. From a distance you can’t tell the difference.

Here are some of our favorite gas fireplace ceramic logs:

Peterson Real Fyre 18 Inch Post Oak Gas Logs Only No Burner
List Price: ~~$140.00~~
Price: $119.00
Read Reviews

Copperfield 48142 18 Inch Hargrove Fire Oak, Vented, Gas Logs Only, Radco Approved
List Price:
Price: $120.53
Read Reviews

Peterson Real Fyre 24-inch Split Oak Designer Plus Log Set With Vented Natural Gas G4 Burner - Match Light
List Price: ~~$522.00~~
Price: $378.96
Read Reviews

Filed Under: Gas Fireplace, Gas Fireplace How To Tagged With: ceramic logs, gas fireplace, gas fireplace btu, wood burning fireplace

Ethanol Fireplace: The Gas Fireplace Alternative

December 11, 2011 By admin Leave a Comment

With trends toward greener alternatives and away from dependence on foreign or domestic gas, fireplaces have taken a new turn with ethanol powered fireplaces.

While ethanol is considered a gas, it is a plant, usually corn, rather than a petroleum based product. The ethanol fireplace settings offer a great deal of control. You can set the flame as low or high as needed for comfort. In an emergency an ethanol fireplace can be shut down, quickly, efficiently and in seconds. Ethanol fireplaces, like gas fireplaces, meet all fire safety standards. Both offer real burning flames, unlike an electric fireplace that only simulates fire.

Many who purchase a fireplace that uses ethanol do so to save energy as well as to help the environment. However, the initial cost for the purchase and installation of an ethanol burning fireplace is considerably higher than for a comparable natural gas burning fireplace. Nevertheless, burning ethanol instead of natural gas can significantly save on energy costs. The environmental positives go beyond a renewable fuel source. There are also tax breaks.

When burned, ethanol does not release carbon dioxide into the atmosphere of the room. It burns cleaner than gas, without some of the toxins inherent in the burning of gas. An ethanol burning fireplace ensures that those huddled around the hearth do not breath in toxins as ethanol doesn’t emit them as natural gas does. Maintenance costs also makes an ethanol system worth considering. In the long-term, an ethanol burning fireplace saves energy and saves on environmental resources.

But this doesn’t come without cost. Many already have a gas line that feeds into their house so hooking up a fireplace to use natural gas isn’t going to greatly increase the cost of installation. Gas is easy to feed into the fireplace and more convenient than comparable ethanol fireplace systems. At this point in the evolution of ethanol, the denatured corn alcohol product is not as cheap to buy and burn as gas.

A regular gas fireplace receives the gas from a gas line to the house. Because they are “hooked up,” natural gas burning fireplaces, like a traditional wood-burning fireplace, are stationary. They cannot be moved about the house. This can make for problems when decorating or redoing rooms. However, an ethanol burning fireplace requires no bulky chimney, burns clean without any offensive odor. The ethanol burning fireplace is more portable than a gas burning fireplace, making redecorating less of a chore and more convenient.

With the cost of heating homes increasing, fireplaces are a positive addition to regular home heating. Fireplaces become more than a decorative feature of the home. They also provide warmth, heat and a place for the family to gather for conversation and hot chocolate on cold winter nights. A primary advantage of choosing a fireplace that burns ethanol, instead of buying a natural gas fireplace, is that the fireplace that burns ethanol uses an eco-friendly, renewable resource that is grown rather than mined.

We Recommend:

SoHo Wall Mount Ethanol Fireplace (Stainless Steel) (28"W x 19"H x 5.5"D)
List Price: ~~$500.00~~
Price: $349.99
Read Reviews

SOHO Wall Mount Ethanol Fireplace
List Price: ~~$350.00~~
Price: $340.00
Read Reviews

SEI Stainless Steel Wall Mount Fireplace
List Price: ~~$427.50~~
Price:
Read Reviews

Filed Under: Gas Fireplace, Gas Fireplace Alternatives Tagged With: ethanol fireplace, gas fireplace

Outdoor Gas Fireplaces

December 5, 2011 By admin Leave a Comment

Fire pits have always been the fixture of many enjoyable and memorable outdoor gatherings. Whether it’s an outdoor camping trip in the mountains, a countryside excursion, vacation getaway, or just a get-together with family and friends, nothing brings people closer together like gathering around a fire on a cool evening.

The Gas Fireplace Alternative

People who want to cherish the atmosphere of fun and camaraderie of the outdoors are recreating this atmosphere right in their backyards. With conventional fireplaces, there are obviously issues, such as:

Safety and environmental hazards
Property restrictions
Convenience and cost

This is where an outdoor gas fireplace comes in extremely handy. Many cities don’t permit open burning within certain city limits, particularly with some of the current EPA restrictions. Gas fireplaces are always allowed, and because they come in an assortment of customized colors and styles, they serve as an exterior design addition to any patio, yard or garden area.

They allow the look, the thrill and comfort that fireplaces offer, without most of the costs, hassles and worries that come with it. Safety and environmental issues can be significantly reduced compared to a conventional fireplace.

Safety and Environmental Hazards

A gas fireplace replaces traditional wood and uses either natural gas or propane, which produces far less amounts of carbon monoxide, pollutants and particles that can be harmful to the environment and your health. Enjoy the outdoor get-together without having to be concerned about elements that might have harmful affects or even potential fire hazards, such as burning embers blown around by the wind, or clouds of choking smoke that can annoy your outdoor activities and even your surrounding neighbors.

Most units come with adjustable valves that make it easy to monitor and control the amount of gas entering through the chamber of a gas fireplace. Safety valve control can be an important feature that insures against accidents, especially with children, in and around your home. Gas fireplaces also provide easy clean-up, durability and convenience for those meticulous and busy homeowners. Be sure to read up on gas fireplace safety before operating your unit.

Convenience and Cost

Gas fireplaces can be hooked up anywhere there is a gas line or portable gas tank that can be purchased, which allows for some extremely flexible choices. Not only do most units come with gas control valves, but offer push-button ignitions and fans for more convenience and ease of use. Pest infestation, sparse wood supplies and cost that typically come with conventional fire pits are eliminated. The convenience and cost of natural gas is a far more suitable alternative, and a sound investment that will pay for itself in both cost and enjoyment in just the first few months of use.

Enjoy your outdoor gatherings with family and friends without fuss and hassles of maintaining a conventional fire pit while it’s in use. Roast marshmallows, cook hot dogs or just gather around a gas fireplace in your own backyard like you would any outdoor camping trip, and cherish memories that will last for years in a much cleaner and safer environment.

Gas Fireplace Headquarters Recommends:

Camp Chef FP29LG Propane Del Rio 'Matchless ignition' Gas Firepit
List Price: ~~$269.99~~
Price: $189.99
Read Reviews

Uniflame GAD1200B LP Gas Outdoor Firebowl with Granite Mantel with removable side panels
List Price: ~~$799.95~~
Price: $699.95
Read Reviews

Filed Under: Gas Fireplace Tagged With: gas, gas fireplace, outdoor gas fireplace

How to Convert a Wood Burning Fireplace to Gas Fireplace

November 10, 2011 By admin 1 Comment

Gas fireplaces are perfect if you have a busy lifestyle. You will no longer have to bring in logs, scoop ashes, or clean your chimney. A gas fireplace will not add pollutants to the

air and can be turned on and off instantly. It also adds much more heat to a room than a wood burning fireplace. Converting a wood burning fireplace to a gas fireplace is not as difficult as you might imagine and will add to the value of your home.

A very easy and economical way to convert a wood burning fireplace to a gas fireplace is to install gas logs. These units have logs made out of ceramic with burners underneath them. They are made to look like real logs that are burning. Installation is simple as all you need are holes for the gas supply line and electricity for the ignition. Gas logs will not add a lot of heat to a room and are usually purchased to replicate the look of a wood burning fireplace.

The other option is to buy and install a gas fireplace insert. This is the more energy efficient option as more energy will be sent into the room as heat. An insert consists of a metal box, called a firebox, with a log set and gas burners inside it. This metal box is enclosed in a second box with only a layer of air between them. This is the air that will be heated and sent into the room. The insert will be designed to fit perfectly into your existing fireplace. It has leveling legs to make sure the insert is centered in the fireplace. As with gas logs, holes will need to be drilled for the gas and electricity.

The other part of the installation of an insert or gas logs will be venting. If venting is needed, it can be accomplished two ways. One is to use the chimney and run a vent pipe inside it. The other is to vent through an exterior wall, in case the chimney cannot be used for some reason. With vented systems, there will need to be fresh air for combustion and there are two options here as well. Air can be brought in from the room or it can be brought in through a second vent pipe, installed in the chimney or the wall.

Gas logs and inserts come in ventless models. If you purchase one of these, you will need to close off the fireplace to avoid drafts. You also need to be aware that some states do not allow ventless gas logs.

Many newer models of gas fireplace inserts come with a remote control. If you have one, it will need to be installed outside of the firebox before installing the outer shell, glass front, and screen.

There are many benefits to using a gas fireplace so why not convert your existing fireplace to experience the warmth, cleanliness, and cost savings of a natural gas fireplace.

For the more visually inclined, here’s a great overview the whole process:

Filed Under: Gas Fireplace, Gas Fireplace How To Tagged With: gas fireplace, gas fireplace conversion, wood burning fireplace

How to Save Money with Your Gas Fireplace

November 3, 2011 By admin 5 Comments

These days, saving money is critical. Surprisingly, you can save even more money with your gas fireplace than you already thought you could by doing a few simple things. The benefits of a gas fireplace are many, but don’t just settle for the default efficiency; get the most out of it and save money in the process!

Turn off the pilot light in the summer. Although many people feel uncomfortable adjusting or turning the pilot off, leaving it on all year long is a guaranteed way to burn more energy than necessary. Just by taking the few minutes to turn the pilot light off, you can save on something you didn’t know you were spending money on before.

To turn the pilot off, simply look for the valve handle in the gas line to turn it off. If you’re not comfortable with re-lighting the pilot once the season calls for it, many gas companies will send a professional out to do so, free of charge.

Use a dimmer to adjust the intensity of the flame. Dimmers are nice tools that can help you save money by controlling the amount of energy is used for the intensity of the flames in the fireplace. Sometimes, dimmers are not even considered by gas fireplace owners because they don’t know that they exist or they just aren’t interested in using them. However, they can really make a difference in the amount of money you spend monthly on the energy.

Install a fan to blow the hot air into the house. You’d be amazed by how much warmer your home could be just by using the right equipment to route the heat in the places that you want it to go. By doing this, you can save on your heating bill from then fan installed on your gas fireplace moving the heat throughout your home.

Install an electric starter — called an intermittent pilot ignition — to negate the need to keep the pilot light on all the time. This is a nice tool that will ignite the gas fireplace by reading the thermostat. When the thermostat’s temperature falls below a certain point, the electric starter will start the gas fireplace to begin heating the home. This is a nice tool that can be used for those that don’t want to mess with starting or stopping the fireplace, and it can mean that your gas fireplace only gets used when it’s absolutely necessary. This can help you save on your monthly bill!

As you can see, there are a few simple things you can do to help your gas fireplace run more efficiently and save you more money in the long run. Don’t just let your fireplace secretly dig more into your wallet than you’d like. Try some of these tips out on your own to make your type of gas fireplace work more efficiently for you!

Recommended money-saving accessories:

Programmable Fireplace Thermostat/Remote
List Price: ~~$207.00~~
Price: $150.25
Read Reviews

Wireless Fireplace Thermostat / Remote
List Price: ~~$0.00~~
Price: $89.99
Read Reviews

Fireplace Blower for Heat N Glow GFK-160A, 7002-1241, Royal GFK-160 Rotom Replacement # R7-RB168
List Price:
Price: $94.99
Read Reviews

Thermal Switch Can be used with Fireplace Blowers for automatic blower operation # 19-SF2-115
List Price:
Price: $6.45
Read Reviews

Filed Under: Gas Fireplace, Gas Fireplace How To Tagged With: dimmer, electric starter, fan, gas fireplace, pilot light