Gas fireplaces can be a great addition to any home. They provide warmth and atmosphere, and they are also quite easy to use. This article will cover everything you need to know about gas fireplaces, including how gas fireplaces work, the pros and cons of using them, and tips for choosing one that is right for you.
What is it about gas fireplaces that makes them so special? Gas fireplaces are heating sources for your home. They’re used to warm up the room and create a cozy atmosphere. Unlike electric or wood-burning fireplaces, gas fireplaces don’t need electricity or fuel – they use natural gas, which you can then control with an adjustable thermostat to set the perfect temperature in your living space!
Gas Supply
Gas fireplaces have a gas supply that allows them to be connected directly into your home’s natural or propane-fueled central heating system. Gas supplies connect the fireplace to both indoor and outdoor lines, allowing for power as well as switching between heat sources if necessary.
It is important to note that some localities have more stringent requirements to install a fireplace. You need to check with your local building department and gas company before you make the purchase or installation of such products, as some areas require special piping in order for it to be used safely.
The Electricity Supply
When you flick your switch, the electrical flow goes through a circuit. That means that it only works when all of the pieces are connected properly. When you turn on an electric fireplace, there’s no connection to other pieces because gas doesn’t need electricity to work! All it needs is some sort of fuel source so that heat can be made.
A natural gas supply can be used to turn on your water heater, stove and oven in addition to heating up your home with a furnace or boiler. When you want heat from a gas-burning appliance, what goes through the circuit is not electricity but rather pressurized gas.
The fuel source from a gas fireplace can be piped through your home’s natural gas line or it may come from an outside tank that supplies the appliance with propane, butane or another type of combustible natural gas. Either way, if you have a built-in supply then all you need is a simple ignition device to get it to work.
A fireplace’s remote control usually has a safety feature built in so that you can’t turn on the gas unless there is someone nearby who wants to use the appliance. As long as the switch isn’t flipped, nobody will be able to activate your fireplace for any reason! There are also other safety features which help keep both you and the fire safe.
Most homes that have a gas supply will route it through their water heater so that you can turn on other appliances as needed, but there are also two different kinds of electrical hookups: either hard-wired or plug-ins which connect to an outlet near your fireplace. No matter what type you want for your home, you should always ask your local professional for advice.
Some appliances are designed with their own electrical supply, but others need to be placed closer to an outlet before they work properly. Either way, if you want a fireplace that’s easy to hook up then these units will come the closest so that the process is quick and hassle-free! The most important thing is to have a guide that tells you how your appliance works so that it’s installed correctly.
You may also want to know more about the actual process of using an electric fireplace as well as what makes them different from other burning appliances, but now you should be able to find out for yourself! All you need are some simple instructions to learn more about your fireplace and how it can make you feel warm all winter long.
Ignition
The pilot light is a small, constant flame that stays lit 24 hours every day. When the fireplace is in “standby” mode, meaning it isn’t being used to heat your home or room, this small flame helps ensure you have hot water when showering and cooking food throughout the house. It also acts as a safeguard in case there is a gas leak.
One of the most important parts about installing a gas fireplace is having it inspected by a trained professional. They will inspect all valves, pumps and other components to make sure your unit is safe for use throughout the colder months ahead!
There are often two different types of valves that control the flow of gas into your fireplace. The first is called a “thermal siphon” valve, which works to ensure safer use in homes by spraying water over the exhaust gases when they come out of the unit. This cools them down and makes it easier for you to breathe.
The second is the “draft inducer” valve, which works to increase airflow in your fireplace and make sure that there are no gas leaks while you use it. Make sure you speak with a professional contractor about any questions or concerns that you have!
Starting The Main Burner Flames Ignites
To ignite the main burner flames, turn on thermostat and press pilot switch. Wait until you see a steady blue flame in the pilot light area. Next, adjust gas flow by turning regulator knob clockwise to increase or counterclockwise to decrease (optional).
- Then press the main burner switch. You will hear a click then you can see the flames on your burner.
- You must let it run for about 30 seconds before adjusting the flame height using the regulator knobs.
Adjusting the Flame and Heat Output
To increase the flame height, turn the control knob to one of the ‘HIGH’ settings. The maximum heat output is achieved when you use both HIGH setting. If you would like less heat, switch off or decrease either or both controls. You can also choose between low/medium/high for your desired room temperature and the fireplace will automatically adjust the flame height and heat output.
You can also increase or decrease your desired room temperature by using the remote control, located on top of the unit behind glass door. The display screen shows you exactly what it is set at (in °C). If you would like to change this setting, simply press “up” or “down” buttons on the back of the remote.
The fireplace may also be set to operate without heat, so you can enjoy a romantic fire in your room with no additional heating effect. Just switch off either control knob and it will run like a standard wood burning fireplace (in which case you should keep the glass door open).
To adjust the heat output, turn the control knob to one of the ‘HIGH’ settings. The maximum heat output is achieved when you use both HIGH setting. If you would like less heat, switch off or decrease either or both controls. You can also choose between low/medium/high for your desired room temperature and the fireplace will automatically adjust the flame height and heat output.
Improving the Fireplace Experience
The most important part of the gas fireplace is its flame, which can be adjusted to give you any kind of fire experience you might want. You can switch between low flames for heat or high flames that are really just eye candy if you’re not looking for warmth.
- You can also adjust the fire’s size. You might want it to be big if you have a room that needs warming, or small for situations when all you need is some ambience and not much else.
- Gas flames are generally made by mixing burning propane with oxygen in order to make them burn more intensely than wood-burning fires. If you have too little oxygen, the fire will burn out of control and be very dangerous.
- This is why it’s important to have a fireplace that automatically adjusts its air intake. That way both children and adults can use your gas fireplace without worrying about being burned or injured in any other way by runaway flames.
- The gas fireplace is also a lot less messy than its wood-burning counterparts.
- Instead of ash that can get everywhere, you’ll just have ashes that are easy to clean up or dispose of quickly and easily once they lose their intense heat after the fire goes out.
Air Supply
The fireplace uses a blower to supply the fire with oxygen. This allows for more complete burning, which means less pollution and cleaner air quality in your home or office. The most common power source is electricity but gas-powered units are also available. There’s not much difference between them except that some models let you choose other fuel sources.
No. There are many types of gas fireplaces available, but the most common type is the ventless gas fireplace which uses natural gas or propane to supply fuel for your heat source. These units come in several different styles and can be used inside or outside!
Air Vents for Waste Air Venting Systems
Venting is a system that can be installed on most fireplaces to allow the escape of combustion by-products. This creates an exterior opening for these gases, usually through the roof or side wall of your home. There are two types of venting systems: direct and indirect air vents. The following information will help you decide which one you need.
- Air vents for waste air venting systems.
Direct Vent: The direct vent system is a sealed unit that works like an outside chimney, and it only requires one opening in the home to work properly. This type of fireplace can be installed on homes with roofs made out of wood or metal, but not masonry materials such as brick or concrete.
Indirect Vent: The indirect vent system is a sealed unit that doesn’t require an exterior opening, but instead works by drawing air from your home and sending it to the chimney through a special tube known as a chase. This type of fireplace can be installed on homes with roofs made out of masonry materials such as brick or concrete.
How to Install a Gas Fireplace
If you’re still not sure which type of system is right for your fireplace, give us a call and we can walk you through the process so that you choose the best one. We will help you determine what size unit you need, and whether or not you have the right conditions to allow installation.
To determine which type of system is best for your fireplace, give us a call! We can help you install it so that you choose the best one for your home.
Standing Or Extinguished Pilot Flame?
One of the most important things to know about a gas fireplace is whether it has an “on” pilot flame or if it only operates when you use your remote. One way to find out what type of system yours uses is by looking at how tall the flames are. If they rise up high, there might be no standing pilot. If the flames are low, there might be a standing pilot flame that you can light with your lighter or match.
- Another way to find out what type of system yours uses is by looking at how tall the flames are. If they rise up high, there might be no standing pilot. If the flames are low, there might be a standing pilot flame that you can light with your lighter or match.
- Remote control operation is ideal for homes where the fireplace isn’t constantly in use.
- Standing pilots are best if you want to have something to turn on manually when needed, even if it’s just a romantic night with wine and good music.
- Automatic pilot light systems may be more expensive up front but will save money in the long run by staying safer because of eliminating manual operation.
Environmental Protection
If you are concerned about the environment, gas fireplaces may be a great choice for your home. Because they burn cleaner than other types of heating systems, using them instead of another type can reduce greenhouse gases that contribute to global warming. If there is no chimney or flue around the fireplace, it will not emit any harmful particles into the air, which is another benefit.
Safety Tips
- Keep the fire out of reach of children and pets.
- Always read, understand and follow all safety precautions provided with your gas fireplace unit before use.
- Keep a minimum of 12 inches between the fireplace and anything combustible such as walls, curtains, floors etc.
- Keep all doors and windows closed while the fireplace is in use.
- Read any additional safety instructions provided with your particular model of gas fireplaces before using it.
FAQs
Do gas fireplaces need a vent?
Yes, gas appliances do need to be connected with the chimney or vented through an outside wall. Venting is required for safe and proper operation of your fireplace. Without it, carbon monoxide can build up in the room and potentially leak back into the house causing health issues.
How much do gas fireplaces cost?
The price of the fireplace varies depending on what you want to use it for and your budget. Gas fireplaces can be used as an air filter, decorative piece or main source of heat in a room during colder months. When deciding which one is best for you, consider the price and your needs.
What is a fireplace damper?
A fireplace damper is an adjustable metal plate that covers the opening of your chimney so you can control how much heat goes out and what gets in. It prevents hot air from escaping through the flue when not burning and helps the fireplace operate more efficiently.
How high should a gas fire pit be from the deck surface?
Gas fire pits come in various sizes and heights that can accommodate your needs, however they must always be installed on level ground with adequate space around it to avoid tipping or damage due to shifting winds. The recommended height is 12 inches from the deck surface.
How can you prevent a gas fireplace from cracking?
Like any other appliance, it’s important to use your gas fireplace properly and maintain its safety features with regular inspections. You should also keep an eye out for cracks in the glass or overheating issues that could cause damage. If you notice any damage, contact a service professional immediately.
How do I control the flame height on my gas fireplace?
Each model of gas fireplaces will vary when it comes to adjusting your flames. Some have knobs that can be adjusted from low-to-high while others might require using a remote control to make adjustments. If you’re not sure how to operate your fireplace, refer to the owner’s manual for more information on adjusting flames and safety features.
Conclusion
It is important to know how gas fireplaces work in order to achieve a more efficient and beneficial experience. However, it is also important for a homeowner or business owner to choose the right fireplace system that will not only benefit their lifestyle but provide them with durability and efficiency as well.