Gas Burning Fireplaces

How They Work

• Gas fireplaces are powered by the same natural gas used in the central heat furnace. A gas line is run to the fireplace location and hooked up to the connection. Many gas fireplaces use a pilot light to ensure the fireplace is always ready. The homeowner merely presses the starter button and a fire instantly appears. Logs are molded from heat-proof ceramics that faithfully mimic the look of real wood. A fan is often installed that allows the heat to blow back into the room.

Placement

• Zero-clearance fireplaces allow placement without regard to what is behind them. They can even be placed against an interior wall as long as a ventilation line can be run. This allows options for creative room design. Gas fireplaces also have thermostats similar to a furnace, which allows pinpoint control over the heat output. As with a gas stove or oven, the homeowner can adjust the flame. This allows the heat output to be regulated and the ambiance set at the desired point.

Conversion

• Wood-burning fireplaces can be converted to a gas fireplace by a professional installer. However, wood should never be burned in a gas fireplace. It is not designed to handle the amount of smoke that is generated, and the smoke will back into the home. Gas fireplaces are easily retrofitted into existing homes since they do not need the elaborate exhaust system that a wood-burning fireplace needs.

Resale Value

• Adding a gas fireplace as an option when building a home could give you greater value for your money when selling. A fireplace is a highly prized amenity that many home seekers want. Keeping a historical record of the cost of operating the fireplace during the winter will show a prospective homebuyer whether or not having the feature is a good idea. Showing that you've kept up with the recommended yearly service calls gives the potential homebuyer peace of mind.