Changing wood fireplaces into Gas Fireplaces
Whether you just moved into a home in Washington DC with a wood-burning fireplace or you’re looking to modernize your fireplace in a house that you have owned for years, it might be time to explore the options to convert it into a gas fireplace. A professional chimney sweep company like ours can assist you. In this article, you will learn more about the available options for converting your wood-burning fireplace into an energy-efficient gas fireplace.
There are quite a few options to consider.
How will gas reach your fireplace?
You have to consider how the gas will reach your fireplace. If you have natural gas at your home, you can have a gas line run to the fireplace. If you don’t have natural gas and do not want to have it run, then your option is to use a propane tank. Either will work, so it’s a preference based on what you already have at your home.Gas Fireplace Kit
A gas fireplace kit is something that is relatively simple to install. The damper is locked into a partially open position, which has pros and cons. It means that no one can forget to open the vent, so you won’t have to worry about carbon monoxide threatening your home. However, you will lose some of the heat. Tight-fitting glass doors can be installed to help counteract that problem. Some kits are more advanced than others, providing you with various features:- Remove controls
- Thermostats
- Decorative hearth
Vent-Free Gas Fireplace
You may also want to explore a vent-free gas fireplace. Your chimney would be for show from now on because no exhaust goes up the chimney. The benefit to this is that you get to have all of the heat inside of the room while still having an open fire. One thing to know is that the combustion exhaust stays inside, so you would either have to create a vent in the home or deal with the exhaust, which could be problematic of people who have asthma or allergy problems. If this is your primary heating system, you will probably want to find an alternative because it’s not recommended to run for more than three hours at a time. Many installation companies consider vent-free gas fireplaces to be dangerous. The risks presented by gas exhaust entering the home represents a potential health risk that outweighs any benefit of having the stove installed. We do not recommend this option.Gas Fireplace Insert
One of the best options is a gas fireplace insert. It is the more expensive option out of the three, but it also allows you to enjoy a fire without the worries present with other options. The insert goes behind closed glass doors. However, you can still see the flame and feel the warmth of your fireplace. You won’t have an open fire, and you can leave it running for as long as you want. There are a few benefits to be aware of:- The look is tidy
- Glass doors provide a good seal
- Exhaust is piped out
- Gas fireplace inserts energy efficient.
- You enjoy good indoor air quality