Guide to Buying New Gas Fireplaces: Key Factors and Expert Tips

What to Consider Before Making a Purchase

Key Points to Review:

• Gas fireplaces create combustion and produce combustion byproducts. Safe use depends on proper venting.
• Some models need a vertical chimney or a working masonry chimney, while others have specific venting requirements.
• There may be installation restrictions based on building codes and installation requirements in your area.
• Compare with wood and electric fireplaces to find the right fit.
• Always check if your home has a suitable chimney flue.

Choose a Gas Fireplace in 7 Steps

1. Is Your Home Set Up for Natural Gas or Propane?

Before deciding on a fireplace, find out which type of gas—natural gas or propane—is available in the home. If the area planned for the new gas fireplace does not have gas lines yet, installing new piping might be necessary. The type of gas available will directly affect which models and setups will work.

2. Check the Size and Space for Installation

Accurate measurements are important. Standard measurements aren't enough; it’s best to double-check the height, width, and depth of the planned area. Homeowners looking at inserts need to fit the unit inside old chimneys or fireplace openings. Wall-mounted or zero clearance fireplaces also have dimension limits. Before choosing any model, confirm it will physically fit in the chosen spot.

3. Which Venting System Fits: B-Vent or Direct Vent?

A B-vent fireplace uses air from indoors and needs a vent that leads upward, similar to an old brick chimney. Direct vent fireplaces bring air from outdoors with a sealed pipe, which often improves safety and efficiency. Not every home can support both, especially if the wall or ceiling layout doesn't allow new pipes. Matching the right venting option to the house setup is necessary for selecting a gas fireplace.

4. Decide on Upward or Sideways Venting

Venting direction affects installation and the type of fireplace that works. Some homes can only vent straight up into a chimney, while others need vents to run sideways out a wall. Certain gas fireplaces have flexible venting systems, while others do not. Renovation to change venting can be expensive, so check the current setup before buying.

5. Should You Pick an Insert or a Wall-Mounted Unit?

A fireplace insert slides into an existing wood-burning brick or stone fireplace. Inserts turn old fireplaces into modern, gas-heated versions and usually boost efficiency. Zero clearance fireplaces are made to fit inside walls or with wood framing, allowing for more flexible placement in homes without traditional fireplaces. Each type has unique installation requirements and benefits.

6. What is the Main Reason for a New Fireplace: Heat or Looks?

Some homeowners buy a fireplace mainly to boost their home's warmth; others focus on style and atmosphere. Fireplaces with higher BTU output deliver more heat and are better for zone heating. Units with big glass panels show more realistic flames and are great for ambiance. Setting a clear goal—heat or appearance—narrows down the long list of options and helps avoid overspending on unnecessary features.

• For Heat: Higher BTU, strong fans, and efficient venting.
• For Looks: Large glass fronts, detailed gas logs, and customizable flames.

7. Choose Your Favorite Look and Features

Aesthetics play a major role in picking a fireplace. Options include traditional or modern designs, different flame patterns, and log styles. Some models let users pick control types, such as wall switches or remotes. Not all units are compatible with every accessory, like certain gas logs or heat dump systems. When looking at gas fireplaces, double-check which features and styles are available for each model.

Quick Tips for Style Preferences:

• Flame color and shape
• Log design and material
• Surround materials (tile, stone, wood)
• Control method: remote, wall switch, manual

Choosing the right combination of gas type, size, venting, function, and design ensures the new gas fireplace fits both the home and the owner's wishes.