Gas Fireplaces FAQ

Here are some of the more common questions we hear. Still wondering about some things? Give us a call or reach us online! We’d be happy to guide you through this process.

Do Gas Fireplaces Give Off Heat?

First off, does a gas fireplace really give off enough warmth to heat your living space? Many are skeptical that it can be as effective as a classic wood-burning fire.

In truth, gas fireplaces are actually more efficient than many of their wood-burning counterparts! With wood-burning fireplaces, a lot of heat escapes up the fireplace, and if the fires aren’t fueled with properly seasoned wood and built up appropriately, you’ll lose out on heat, too.

Direct-vent gas fireplaces, on the other hand, are known for radiating heat into your living space without taking heat out the chimney. In the the long run they save you money on energy costs and ensure comfortable, cozy evenings indoors without the hassle (and mess) of building fires, properly storing wood, and scooping ash.

Another benefit is that many models allow you to adjust the heat according to your preferences. So, if the problem is too much heat, you can simply turn it down a bit to guarantee optimal comfort!

Do Gas Fireplaces Need Electricity?

Yes and no. Millivolt gas fireplaces do not use your home’s electricity at all for basic operation. These have millivolt controls and generate their own power, making them quite affordable to operate. This also means you can still use them if the power goes out! They have optional blowers that would require a powered outlet beneath the fireplace, but this is usually optional and only increases heat output.

Electronic ignition (EFI) gas fireplaces have electronic control valves that require power to operate. Many of these come with battery backup systems however, so that if the power goes out the unit will still operate. This is a comfort to many knowing they’ll get efficient heat and light for their home even if the weather is less than ideal outdoors, or even if the power goes out. These units usually have more bells and whistles and cost quite a bit more than the millivolt units. The downside is they are usually computer controlled and can have more issues long term than the simpler millivolt controlled systems.

Overall gas fireplaces are very efficient, limit heat loss from the home, and look beautiful. There are a whole host of options and brands to choose from. There are even fully custom fireplaces that can be designed to fit your aesthetic needs and desires. All have different requirements however so the best bet is to give us a call and discuss your options.

Do Gas Fireplaces Need to Be Cleaned?

Gas fireplaces don’t operate with wood, so that means no creosote build-up, which also means… no cleanings, right? Well, not so fast. Any fireplace, no matter the fuel type, requires annual service, and this could reveal the need for a cleaning, as well. Nearly all fireplace and venting manufacturers, insurance companies, as well as the National Fireplace Institute and the Chimney Safety Institute of America recommend that they still be serviced annually.

But if there’s no creosote what could there be to do? Well, other items like leaves, twigs, nesting materials, or even curious critters (or moths, wasps, etc…) can get in your flue and fireplace and cause clogs. Spiders can build webs during the summer and block burner orifices leading to inefficiency and potential exposure to carbon monoxide and sooting. The ember materials need replaced and adjusted on a regular basis as well to keep the system burning properly and looking new. The glass requires cleaning as well so that the byproducts of the gas being burned don’t etch their way into the glass as quickly. Annual service helps keep your unit operating at peak efficiency long term.

Regular service might also reveal other flaws like a missing or damaged chimney cap, missing firestops in the attic, or clearances issues from the recent remodel that the contractor didn’t notice.

Do Gas Fireplaces Need to be Vented?

Gas fireplaces and stoves actually come in both vented and ventless options. Vented options include direct-vent and b-vent units (though b-vent appliances are becoming less common). Please know however that vented or ventless gas log sets are not a gas fireplace. Those are only to be installed into code compliant masonry systems. In the case of a factory built fireplace log sets should only be installed into them if they are listed for installation into the specific fireplace, and the fireplace specifically allows it to be installed as well.

A big advantage of ventless gas fireplaces is that they don’t require a chimney. A downside is that they put moisture back into the home as well. They should not be used above certain elevations and may not work properly if there is not enough available air in the home. Ventless options overall are cheaper to install, and because they don’t use a chimney, there’s a lot of flexibility as to where they can be placed in the home. Ventless gas fireplaces are often less realistic looking which can put a damper on the ambiance of your space. Along with this, many are concerned about the higher potential of carbon monoxide exposure. These fireplaces have sensors that will alert the homeowner if dangerous levels are reached, but some still would rather not face the increased risk.

Vented fireplaces on the other hand, are much more efficient and put out much more heat. With the flexibility in the venting systems of newer gas fireplaces, and the availability of power vented units they can be installed in most locations provided there is a reasonably sized channel to the outdoors. Overall we always recommend a vented option over a ventless one.

This is one area where do-it-yourself attempts could land you in big trouble and invite potentially dangerous scenarios to your household. Many insurance companies will not cover your property unless any new appliances are professionally installed. 

Don’t take any chances! Reach out to our qualified techs at 970-234-3330 today to book your appointment.