Benefits Of Converting Wood Fireplace Into Gas Fireplace

Gas fireplaces are taking over wood-burning fireplaces for all the right reasons. Admittedly, a wood fireplace has a rustic appeal with its crackling wood and smoke flowing out of the chimney. But it’s also a fire hazard between the burning wood and creosote build-up in the chimney. That’s why many homeowners purchase a gas fireplace insert in Denver. 

Gas fireplaces have lower costs and add to the interior design. You should consider converting your fireplace for the following reasons:

Simpler Installation

A traditional wood-burning fireplace needs a chimney to release the smoke. You don’t need a chimney with a gas firebox, though vents and pipes may be needed. Gas fireplaces can be installed into a wall or be freestanding. If you have a natural gas supply, you don’t need a propane tank. These factors make converting to gas simple.

Simpler Maintenance

Traditional fireplaces require a lot of maintenance. You need to remove leftover ashes after the wood burns out. Calling a chimney sweeper and inspector is also necessary to prevent creosote build-ups. Maintaining gas fireplaces is simpler, you just need to wipe the interior and exterior. You also need to prevent the vents from clogging.

Lower Costs

Simpler installation and maintenance make a gas fireplace cheaper than a wood-burning one overall.

Better Efficiency

Gas fireplaces are better at heating a room than wood fireplaces. They are manufactured with energy-efficient materials that convert most of the fuel into heat. The models come with energy-ratings you can refer to. Their ratings can be between 75 to 98 percent. In contrast, wood loses most of its heat through the chimney.

Many gas inserts come with an airflow system that spreads the heat throughout the room. By installing them you get maximum heat and minimum waste.

Safer

The idea that gas could be safer might confuse you. But it’s a safer alternative to wood. A single spark flying from burning wood could lead to a house fire. And you have to keep moving the logs, which puts your hand at risk of burning. The creosote build-up in the chimney caused by burning wood is also hazardous.

A flick of a switch is enough to light a gas fireplace. It’s unlikely to cause creosote build-up or sparks. It comes with a screen that prevents pets and children from touching the fire.

Convenient Fuel Storage

With log-burning fireplaces, you need to store the logs in a dry place with good air circulation. They must be neatly stacked and away from pests. This means you need to move the logs from the stack to the hearth to refuel the fire. 

With gas fireplaces, you don’t need to worry about moving fuel. It’s usually connected through pipes. If you have a natural gas supply, you don’t need to worry about storage. With propane, you’ll need a tank which is still more convenient than a stack of wood.

Prevent Pest Infestation

Wood is always susceptible to termite infestation that can spread to your furnishing. Wood stacks also give pests like snakes and spiders space to hide.

Cleaner Home

Wood tends to carry dust with it that can make the room untidy. This isn’t an issue with gas. Wood also tends to emit fumes and soot that can spoil the home’s air quality. Gas fireplaces come with vents that send most of the emissions outdoors. 

Gas also burns more cleanly than wood. Propane gas inserts are considered eco-friendly due to propane’s ability to burn completely with very little greenhouse gas if any.

Maintain The Look

Gas inserts come with faux logs that don’t burn but mimic the look of burning wood. This is great for homeowners who want to maintain a traditional look with their outdoor fireplace in Denver.

Simple Operation

Lighting a gas fireplace is as simple as flicking a switch. Many models come with a remote controller for convenience. This is simpler than setting up a wood-burning fireplace.

Overall, gas fireplaces are more convenient, safer and cheaper than wood fireplaces. So consider your options if you have the budget.