Gas fireplaces are a great way to keep your home warm and cozy during the winter. Gas fireplaces use natural gas or propane as fuel, which is generally more affordable than electric heating. They also save you from worrying about power outages since they work regardless of electricity. In this post, we will give you a list of the different parts of a gas fireplace so that you know what to look for when shopping around for one!
Gas fireplaces are a popular choice for homeowners looking to add warmth and ambiance to their living areas. These gas-powered appliances offer the convenience of an instant flame, while maintaining cleanliness and safety. Gas fireplaces can be expensive, so it’s important to take care of your fireplace over time in order to get the most out of your purchase. This blog post will provide you with information on how gas fireplaces work, what parts they have, and other necessary facts that every homeowner should know about their fireplace!
Gas Fireplace Components
A gas fireplace typically has three major components. They are the firebox, venting system, and exterior wall surface.
Frame & Firebox
The firebox is a part of the unit that holds and supports logs or gas-burning equipment. The back wall of the box typically has a heat shield, which protects combustible materials from direct exposure to the hot flames. It also houses an adjustable air supply used for fueling combustion during ignition.
- A typical fireplace may have more than one firebox.
The frame of the fireplace is typically constructed out of steel or cast iron, making it strong enough to support logs and other heavy objects that may rest on top. A square or rectangular design is most common for this component. Make sure there are no gaps between the front surface (heat shield) and the back wall of the frame. This can make it difficult to get a fire started and allow dangerous carbon monoxide gases into your home.
Fireplace Media
Control This is the panel on your gas fireplace that controls which media you are using. The most common type of control system for a gas fire place is an infrared remote control, but there are also other types available including touch pad controls and traditional push buttons.
- The following are the parts of a gas fireplace.
Emissions Controls This is the part that regulates how much air gets into your fire place, which in turn affects how hot it burns and controls emissions of harmful gases. A good quality gas fireplace will have very low emissions to begin with but there are some additional features available for even greater reductions.
Cover/Firefront
The cover or firefront is the most visible part of a gas fireplace. It’s designed to protect your eyes and face from direct contact with flames, sparks and hot gases as they come out of the combustion chamber at high speeds. Fire fronts may be decorative metal pieces that sit on top of an otherwise bare brick chimney or surround an entire fireplace opening.
Firebacks
A fireback is a protective barrier behind the burning logs. It holds heat in around them, thus creating an overall more efficient fireplace system. Firebacks are found mostly on masonry or zero-clearance gas fireplaces that use real wood for fuel because they must withstand high temperatures and regular cleaning with harsh chemicals to control creosote build up.
Backsplash
A backsplash is a heat-resistant barrier that sits behind the mantel or above your fireplace surround in order to protect them from high temperatures, soot and corrosive gases coming out of the firebox below. Backsplashes are usually made of ceramic tile, metal, brick or marble.
Burner Assembly
The burner assembly is where the gas flows through to be lit, and it’s what you see when looking at a functioning fireplace. Some burners are made out of stainless steel while others are cast iron or ceramic glass. Think about what kind of look you want for your firebox; some materials will provide an antique finish whereas other materials will give you a modern look.
Burner
Gas fireplaces typically have a burner that sends flames shooting out of the front. The size and style varies from fireplace to fireplace but it’s always located in the center. In some cases, you can control how much gas is being sent through this area or turn on/off with a remote.
Controls & Features
Remote Control: A remote control allows you to easily change the settings of your fireplace. Check out our blog post on how to use a gas fireplace remote here!
Thermostat
This will allow you to control the temperature of your fireplace. The thermostat works by regulating how much gas flows into the burner through a small electronic valve, which is called an orifice (see above). Check out our blog post on common questions about propane and natural gas fireplaces here!
Power Switch
The power switch is used to turn your fireplace on and off. Check our blog post on how fireplaces work here!
Ventless Fireplace
A ventless fire place is installed in homes without chimneys or flues. Check out our blog post on how to install a gas fireplace here!
Glass Doors
One of the most beautiful features about these types of fireplaces are their glass doors, which allow you to enjoy your fireplace from any angle. Check out our blog post on common questions about propane and natural gas fireplaces here!
Burner
The burner is where the flame appears from inside of your fireplace, and it provides a consistent source of heat for up to 12 hours with just one refill. Check out our blog post on how to install a gas fireplace here!
Thermocouple
This component senses the temperature inside of your fireplace and turns off the gas automatically when it gets too hot. Check out our blog post on how fireplaces work here!
Orifice
The orifice is a small valve in which you can adjust to change the size of flame. Check out our blog post on common questions about propane and natural gas fireplaces here!
Dampers
There are two dampers, one at the top of your fireplace (for incoming air) and another at the bottom for outgoing gases. We recommend using a professional to work with these components so you know they’re installed safely and correctly. Check out our blog post on how to install a gas fireplace here!
Burner Ports
There are two sets of burner ports, one for the primary air supply and another set that regulates secondary air flow. Tools such as needle nose pliers can be used to adjust these components with ease if needed.
Flue
The flue is an exhaust system that runs up the back of your fireplace. It comes in either plastic or clay, we recommend using stainless steel for a longer lasting option. Check out our blog post on how to install a gas fireplace here!
Frame
The frame of your gas fireplace is what holds everything together. It can be made out of different materials, such as steel, cast iron or brick— it all depends on the style you’re looking for in your home. Check out our blog post on how to install a gas fireplace here!
Hearth
The hearth is the floor of your fireplace, typically made out of brick or stone. Check our blog post on how fireplaces work here!
Ignition system
The main feature of a gas fireplace that makes it different from an electric or wood-burning unit is the ignition system. In order to establish a flame, you need some type of heat source which ignites the fuel in your fireplace and provides enough warmth for combustion. A traditional firebox uses either natural draft (the chimney) or mechanical draft (a fan) to create the necessary pressure for combustion.
Gas Supply Pipe & Valve
The gas supply pipe and valve are the most important parts of a gas fireplace. This is because they’re responsible for delivering propane from your tank to the burner in order to create heat, light and ambiance on demand. The photo shows two types of valves: A saddle valve (left) which attaches directly onto your existing regulator and a tee handle (right) which looks like an ordinary gas canister and attaches to your plumbing.
Firebox Liner
The firebox liner is the part of your fireplace that houses the actual burning process. It can be made from several different materials, including clay brick or metal sheeting. The most common material used for making these liners are clay bricks because they allow heat to flow up through them rather than transfer it down into the foundation and surrounding floorboards.
Venting
If you are looking to install a gas fireplace in your home, there are different types of venting systems available. The two most common venting system options are direct-vent and power-vent. A direct-vent is installed through the wall or floor with an outside air source that draws combustion air from outside the living space; it also draws air from the room where the fireplace is located. A power-vent draws combustion air from outside and recirculates it inside, which provides a positive pressure in the home. This type of venting system keeps exhaust gases out of your living space making it ideal for homes with multiple stories or tight construction as well as mobile homes.
Hearth & Surround
A gas fireplace can be built into a brick or masonry surround, but the most common is an insert that fits inside your existing firebox. This allows you to keep using your traditional wood-burning hearth while enjoying all of the benefits of heating with gas. The only real difference between these two types of inserts are whether they have their own hearth, or are built into your existing one.
Surrounds come in a variety of sizes to match different fireplaces and homes. A smaller surround is best for an older home with smaller rooms; it’ll give you the look of a traditional wood-burning fireplace while heating more efficiently because it doesn’t need as much airflow. If you have a larger home with bigger rooms, go for the largest surround that will fit your fireplace to maximize efficiency and heat output.
A gas insert must be installed into an existing wood-burning firebox or masonry one in order to function properly. Although it can technically be built directly into brickwork if you’re building a brand new home, this is not recommended because brickwork can be damaged by heat and water.
Oxygen Sensor
Oxygen sensors are also called lambda probes, or O² sensors for short. They measure the oxygen content of your exhaust to determine how rich (excess fuel) or lean (too much air/not enough gas) it is. The ECU needs this information in order to maintain an ideal 14:17 ratio. If that ratio is off, it will tell the fuel injectors to adjust accordingly.
Blower
The blower is the vent-less gas fireplace’s fan. It blows air through a heat exchanger and outside of your home to create an attractive fire display in your living room or family room. The blower can be powered by either electricity or natural gas which allows it to operate independently from direct connection with other parts of the gas fireplace system.
Wall Switch
Wall switch is the power supply that controls on/off of your fireplace. It can be operated by turning it left or right to turn gas off or on, respectively. If you are looking for a wall switch replacement click here.
Remote Control
After reading through the manual, you should have identified your model’s remote control. Some gas fireplaces require two remotes to operate all of its functions—one for temperature and one for flame height. The most common type is a single-function controller that adjusts both temperature and flame height at the same time. Many models include an on/off and flame height control on the fireplace itself, but these remotes provide additional convenience.
Cable Fixings
The gas fireplace can be installed on a wall or set into an existing masonry chimney. Ensure the power is off and remove any flammables from around the area before beginning installation. A qualified electrician should connect it to appropriate wiring, if necessary. If you install the gas fireplace in an existing masonry chimney, ensure that it is cleaned and inspected before installation.
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
The EPA has determined that natural gas is a clean burning fuel. In fact, the EPA says it’s cleaner than other fossil fuels by as much as 30%.
While it is a clean burn, there are still some safe handling practices that you should follow. To make sure your gas fireplace operates safely and efficiently look for these safety tips:
- Keep the area around the unit clear of combustible materials while in use
- Ensure there is nothing blocking air flow into or out of an open flame appliance which could cause a buildup of toxic fumes
- Never use your gas fireplace as an alternate heat source if the power goes out, you will risk carbon monoxide poisoning.
Safety Tips
- Turn off gas supply valve when not in use.
- Make sure the fireplace is operating correctly, and there are no signs of damage or wear before lighting it.
- Keep kids away from open fires at all times. Kids should never play with fireplaces or flames. They can be very dangerous for children to come into contact with.
- Only use fire tools to clean out the fireplace; never hit it or scrape it with sharp objects, as this can cause irreparable damage and put you at risk of a gas leak.
- If your fire tools break, make sure to replace them right away. Tools can be dangerous if they are broken or damaged; especially the metal screens, since their sharp edges may cause serious injury.
- Never leave the fireplace unattended. Leaving a fire burning in your home is very dangerous, as it can cause burns or even death from smoke inhalation or carbon monoxide poisoning if left unchecked.
- Keep kids and pets away from open fires at all time; never let them play with flames of any kind.
FAQs
What is the difference between a ventless model and an open hearth?
A ventless gas fireplace produces heat by drawing combustibles from its surroundings, so it doesn't need any ventilation. An open hearth uses internal combustion to produce heat just like your furnace or water heater, which means that they will require some sort of ventilation.
What is a millivolt control system?
A MilliVolt Control System uses small electrical impulses to open or close valves that allow gas to flow. It does not require power to operate, which means that you will never have to worry about losing heat in the winter if your power goes out.
How do I know how much gas is left?
A low-flow sensor inside of the fireplace automatically shuts off when it detects a lack of natural gas flow or pressure; giving you enough time to order more before your fireplace goes out.
What is the BTU output of my gas fireplace?
The manufacturer's website should list all specifications for your model, as well as a breakdown of its heating capacity in BTUs (British Thermal Units). You can also contact them directly with any questions you have about your specific fireplace.
What are the different types of gas fireplaces?
There are three main categories for gas fireplaces: vented, ventless and direct vent. Vented models allow combustion products to be exhausted through the chimney or into a room with an open flue; while ventless options draw combustibles from their surroundings in order to produce heat, which means that you will never have to worry about carbon monoxide poisoning. Direct vent fireplaces draw combustion products directly from the outside into a sealed chamber inside of your fireplace or gas stove; then exhaust them through a pipe and out an external wall (if required).
Where should I install my gas log set?
You should never install a gas log set in an area where it can be exposed to any type of moisture, such as near the bathtub or sink. The best place for your fireplace is next to an electrical outlet and heat source (i.e., register).
How do I know if my gas fireplace is vented or ventless?
If your fireplace has a clear glass door, it's most likely a ventless model. If there are no doors on the front of your unit and you can see flames licking up against some sort of metal grate inside; then it's probably a direct vent.
How do I clean the glass?
If your gas fireplace has a tempered glass door, you can easily wipe it down with soapy water and a soft cloth. If there's no door on front of your unit; then use an old toothbrush to gently scrub away any debris that might be stuck in between the logs.
How do I adjust the flame?
Most gas fireplaces have a remote control that allows you to turn them on and off, as well as change their speed. The settings for your fireplace should be programmed before it's installed; but if they're not just refer to your owner's manual or manufacturer website for instructions.
Conclusion
A gas fireplace is a popular choice for any home, and people who love the look of a fire without all the work will find that it’s as easy as turning on an electric switch. However, there are several parts to be aware of when you purchase this type of fireplace so that you know what you need before your new appliance arrives.