Looking for a 'gas insert / unit' ? Learn the differences to find which option is the best for you and your home!
The fireplace industry, similar to other industries, has terms that get used to identify certain parts and components. Often we hear from customers the interest in a 'gas insert' not knowing how this term is used in our industry which can cause confusion. In this blog you will learn the different types of gas inserts / units and what situations they are best installed in and used for.
There are four different types of gas units; gas logs, gas inserts, gas fireplace and gas freestanding stoves. NOTE: In Wisconsin it is illegal to install 'ventless' gas units into your home.
GAS LOGS are installed into existing wood fireplaces and require the use of the flue system to exhaust the fumes. With these you will have a gas line coming to the firebox with a control valve installed, a burner tube, a grate and ceramic logs / media. These do not come with fans and can sometimes come with remotes depending on the valve chosen. They generally are the least expensive option up front, however they end up being more costly in the long run as they have zero efficiency and most all the heat will go out of the flue system. Gas logs are a great option if you are looking for something low cost, already have an existing wood fireplace and only want something cosmetic.
GAS INSERTS are installed into existing wood fireplaces and use your existing chimney system. They are fully enclosed units with a safety screen that offer high efficiencies and great heating. There are lots of different options that you can customize to fit your décor and lifestyle by choosing if you would like a: fan, remote, and different medias types, liners and surrounds. A gas insert will change the look and size of your fireplace and will need connection to gas and electric. Gas inserts are a great option if you are looking for something that will have high efficiencies, produce heat value and you already have an existing wood fireplace.
GAS FIREPLACES are installed when there is not an existing chimney, usually for a new build or rebuild in the home. They are fully enclosed fireplaces that offer high efficiencies and great heating. They have lots of different options that you can select from including; a fan, remote, different medias, liners and surrounds similar to gas inserts. The difference here is that they do not require an existing wood fireplace, as they have a framing guide line to support them as they are non load bearing. Gas fireplaces are a great option if you have no fireplace currently in the space you are looking to get one installed or want your prefab wood fireplace removed and a comparable sized gas unit installed into the same opening.
GAS FREESTANDING STOVES can be installed in a location with or without an existing chimney. These free standing gas stoves can be either single sided or multi-sided. A gas freestanding stove is a great option if you have no fireplace currently in the space you are looking to get one installed or want a unique alcove look inside your fireplace.
For photo examples email Office@hansenandsons.com or schedule time to come to our showroom in person and we would be happy to show you the differences as well.
