A fireplace has been the hearth where families and friends gather, where everyone can relax, add a cheerful glow to your space, and bring style into the room. But if you do have an older gas fireplace that’s seen its days, then you are probably missing out on both efficiency and beauty. That’s where fireplace inserts for gas fireplace systems come in.
By upgrading your current setup by using a gas insert you don’t just make your fireplace look better you make it work better. With improved heating performance, greater safety benefits and incredible design choices, gas fireplace inserts are a smart, energy-conscious way to give your living space a breath of new life.
At Fireside, we focus on assisting homeowners in making educated, confident choices when it comes to improvements to their fireplaces. In this guide, we’ll take a look at everything you need to know about upgrading with a gas fireplace insert including how they work and the benefits they bring and why this investment can serve you for years to come.
What Is a Fireplace Insert for Gas Fireplace?
A fireplace insert is a complete unit which is fitted directly into a fireplace opening. Unlike traditional gas fireplaces, which are often open to the room or vented inefficiently, fireplace inserts for gas fireplace systems are sealed combustion units that maximize heat output and minimize energy loss.
Working on the concept of vacuum, gas inserts draw in outside air to burn gas fuel (natural gas or propane) and then expel the exhaust outside – normally by way of a dedicated flue system. The outcome is a managed, very efficient source of heat, which can be operated easily and with very little maintenance.
Why Upgrade? The Best Benefits of Gas Fireplace Inserts
If your existing fireplace doesn’t function efficiently or isn't fashionable, a replacement can change everything. Here’s why more homeowners are choosing to install fireplace inserts for gas fireplace units:
1. Dramatically Improved Efficiency
Old gas fireplaces used to have low efficiency which results in the large amount of heat used escaping through the chimney. Modern gas inserts offer to deliver 70% – 85% efficiency or higher, so that you can enjoy more heat for less fuel consumption.
2. Lower Energy Bills
When your fireplace is doing a better job of warming your space, your house’s main heating system (a furnace) then doesn’t have to work as hard to keep you warm. This translates to you having low monthly utility bills particularly in cold months.
3. Cleaner, Safer Operation
Gas inserts provide a sealed combustion system that eliminates drafts and lowers carbon monoxide risks that create better indoor air quality. Peace of mind is what you’ll have knowing that your fireplace is safe for your household.
4. Stylish Modern Designs
Whether you have a classic home or a transitional, or ultra-modern, there is a gas insert that will suit your style. Some options include sleek glass beds, realistic log sets and faceplate and surround finishes.
5. Convenience at Your Fingertips
Today’s fireplace inserts for gas fireplace models often include remote control operation, programmable thermostats, and even smartphone connectivity. That involves exact control of temperature, flame, and fan speeds all while on your couch.
At What Time Should I Upgrade?
Questions arising as to whether you need to upgrade your current fireplace? And here are some important indicators of interest in a fireplace insert for gas fireplace:
- Age of your current fireplace: If you have a fireplace that’s 15+ years old, it’s probably inefficient and outdated.
- Rising energy bills: Heating costs will suddenly increase, meaning your fireplace is no longer performing its job.
- Visible wear and tear:Cracked liners, discolored surfaces or fuel inconsistency in the flame can indicate performance and safety complications.
- Outdated appearance:Other times it’s just time for a visual refresh. You can change your living room aesthetic entirely with new insert.
- Lack of heat circulation: If the fireplace only warms the space directly around it, it’s not operating as effectively as it should be.
How to Select the Perfect Fireplace Insert for Your Home
Every home—and homeowner—is different. That’s why you can be sure that Fireside will find a solution to help you pick the optimal insert. Here are some factors to consider when selecting fireplace inserts for gas fireplace upgrades:
1. Venting Type
There are 3 primary categories of gas inserts based on your venting requirements.
- Direct Vent: The most common and effective alternative. These inserts have a double-walled pipe to allow outside air for combustion and vent exhaust out. Perfect for tightly sealed homes.
- Natural Vent (B-Vent): These extract air from within the room and vent the exhaust vertically. Less efficient but can be utilized in some legacy configurations.
- Vent-Free: These do not need to have a chimney or venting. They are efficient and easy to install but may not be appropriate in some locations because of the indoor air quality issue and local code requirements.
2. BTU Output
The flow of heat of a fireplace insert is measured in BTUs. The appropriate level depends on the size of your space, insulation quality of your space and the regional climate. Fireside can help establish the best output to avoid any instance of overheating while ensuring that it is comfortable.
3. Design & Finish
With a great variety of styles – realistic ceramic logs, the modern glass ember beds, linear flame displays and so on, – you will always be able to find inserts that suit your taste. Surrounds, faceplates and liners can be custom made to suit your décor.
The Installation Process with Fireside
Your upgrade of your fireplace should be effortless and rewarding. Our streamlined process eliminates guesswork here at Fireside as your insert is installed safely, professionally and beautifully.
Step 1: In-Home Assessment
We start by carefully assessing your present fireplace, chimney or venting, room layout, and heating requirements. This allows us to recommend the right fireplace inserts for gas fireplace setup tailored to your home.
Step 2: Product Selection
Depending on your goals – maximizing heat, improving the design, or a combination of helping you to choose the ideal model, the ideal features, and finishing.
Step 3: Installation
Our certified installers are responsible for the entire retrofit process including all venting, gas lines, and components are installed to code. We also give a walk through on operation and maintenance.
Step 4: Ongoing Support
Whether it’s annual inspections, parts replacements or cleaning, Fireside is there to support your system through the long haul. We are your companion for long-term performance.
Real-World Benefits You Can Expect
On the fence about upgrading? Here’s what homeowners commonly experience after installing fireplace inserts for gas fireplace systems:
- More consistent room temperatures
- Reduced use of central heating
- Improved ambiance and home value
- Simplicity of use and increased control.
- A fireplace which will fit in with your interior style
Upgrade with Confidence
A gas fireplace insert is not merely an aesthetic improvement, it’s an intelligent investment in the comfort, efficiency, and livability of your home. From a poor performing unit to a simple modernization effect, a gas insert can be the change you need.
At Fireside, we believe that your fireplace shouldn’t just look pretty but should work to make your home warm and cozy. That’s why we’re dedicated to providing you personalized service, professional installation, and fine quality fireplace products that enhance the ambiance of your space in every way.
Want to learn about your upgrade options? Call Fireside today and allow our team to assist you in converting your old fireplace into a high efficiency centerpiece you can enjoy for many years.