There’s nothing better than a roaring fire on a cold, blistery night. Unless it’s a roaring fire that needs no tending, requires minimal cleanup, and heats more than the room it’s in. That’s why more and more homeowners are choosing gas over wood-burning fireplaces. Plus, modern versions burn much more realistically, with glowing red embers and vibrant orange-yellow flames that dance and flicker around just like a real fire.
After deciding to go “gas”, there’s still one more important choice to make: gas insert, gas fireplace, or gas logs? These three terms are often used interchangeably, but they are very different with their own set of advantages.
Gas Insert
A gas insert is a contained metal box that is installed into an existing fireplace and relies on some type of gas to produce heat, which is emitted from the firebox. Using natural gas (or propane), gas inserts burn a real flame that mimics the look of a traditional fireplace without the hassle or mess of burning wood. You don’t have to gather and store firewood, start a fire, stoke it, or clean out the ashes. Just flip a switch and enjoy. Gas inserts are more efficient, user-friendly, and safer than their wood-burning counterparts.
Gas Fireplace
Gas fireplaces look very similar to gas inserts as both are contained metal boxes. However, unlike inserts, gas fireplaces don’t require an existing fireplace or chimney for installation. They can be placed virtually anywhere in your home to provide the look and feel of a fireplace while efficiently heating the entire room.
Gas Logs
The most inexpensive way to put your existing fireplace to good use without burning real wood is with gas logs. Gas logs are a set of ceramic logs made to look like the real thing and arranged artfully so as not to block the gas burner. The homeowner simply turns up the heat with the twist of a knob. While they do emit some heat, they are not as effective at heating a whole home as gas inserts or a gas fireplaces.
Features of Gas Fireplaces
Whether you choose to install a new gas fireplace or to add a gas insert or logs to your existing fireplace, here are just some of the benefits you’ll enjoy:
- Energy efficiency
- Ease of use
- Low maintenance
- No smoke or embers
- Reliable heat source during a power outage
If you’re ready to enjoy the warmth and comfort of a gas fireplace, contact Zach Heating & Cooling, your complete home comfort resource.