Gas Fireplace Insert vs. Traditional Wood Burning Units: What to Know

As homeowners find themselves looking at either updating an existing fireplace or installing a new fireplace, the decision can come down to when choosing between a traditional wood-burning fireplace unit and a new gas fireplace insert. While both serve the same primary purpose, providing warmth and ambiance, the way in which they work, the maintenance required and the value that they add to your home can be dramatically different.  

At Fireside we specialize in helping our customers make informed decisions based on their design preferences, heating needs and lifestyle. Whether you are replacing an old wood-burning fireplace or considering options for a remodel, knowing the differences between these two systems can save time, money and future heartache. Below, we'll break down what makes them different from one another and why more and more homeowners are making the switch to gas fireplace inserts.  

Understanding the Basics  

A wood burning fireplace is what many people think of when they think of a classic hearth: a brick or stone firebox, flue in the chimney, roaring fire fueled by logs. It runs on manual ignition, frequent feeding and regular chimney cleaning in order to safely function.  

A gas fireplace insert on the other hand is a factory-built system that fits into the opening of an existing wood burning fireplace. It runs off of natural gas or propane and is attached to a direct vent system, which means clean air is drawn in and safe exhaust is produced using the system without the need for using a traditional chimney.  

The contrast between the two systems is not only the way they appear. Their operation, safety, installation, and cost over time are all factors in determining which one might be right for your home.  

Installation Differences  

The installation of a traditional wood-burning fireplace normally involves the construction of a firebox, lining of a chimney and reinforcement of framing to cope with the elevated temperatures created by wood burning. This can be a time consuming and costly process, particularly if your home didn't have a chimney designed in mind to begin with.  

Gas fireplace inserts are often easier to install especially when retrofitting an existing wood burning fireplace. The installation of the insert since it is a contained system, requires the sealing of the existing chimney flue and the run in of a gas line (if one is not running), along with venting the unit through the existing structure. This allows for a significant reduction of labor time and construction costs, especially in remodeling jobs where very little change to the structural aspects of a building is preferable.  

Efficiency and Heat Output  

Traditional fireplaces, though lovely, are notoriously inefficient as a heat source. Most of the heat from a wood fire is lost through the chimney and open burning will often draw the warm air from the rest of the house. In fact, a typical wood fireplace may only be less than 15% efficient.  

By contrast, modern gas fireplace inserts have efficiency in mind. Many models contain sealed combustion chambers, variable heat output, and thermostatic controls which help to maintain a constant room temperature. With efficiency ratings to the tune of 70-85% inserts convert more of their fuel into usable heat - making them an excellent secondary heat source for living rooms, basements or even entire small homes.  

Maintenance and Cleaning  

If you've ever had a wood burning fireplace, then you’re familiar with the clean-up process for your fireplace: sweeping ash, removing soot, hauling wood, and annual chimney sweeps. Burning wood also adds the problem of creosote accumulation, a fire-related byproduct that is highly dangerous if not cleaned on a regular basis.  

Gas fireplace inserts eliminate that maintenance to a large degree. There's no ash, no creosote and no heavy lifting. Maintenance generally involves a yearly service appointment with a technician that inspects the gas connections, pilot light and venting. The glass viewing area from time to time will require cleaning, but it's an easy job compared to handling wood debris.  

This low maintenance experience is a primary reason why homeowners switch to gas fireplace inserts - specifically for homeowners looking for the ambiance without the hassle.  

Environmental Considerations  

For the eco-conscious homeowner there are distinct advantages to gas fireplace inserts. Burning natural gas or propane also emits fewer particulates and emissions than wood, which is known for contributing to indoor and outdoor air pollution. In some areas, wood burning fireplaces are even under use restrictions during poor air quality days.  

Additionally, as gas inserts are sealed systems, they don't suck heated indoor air into the combustion process or let smoke leak into the home. This helps to maintain a better quality air and constant comfort all through the season.  

While wood is a renewable resource the environmental costs of harvesting, transporting and burning the wood with the resulting emissions from it make gas a cleaner and more efficient alternative in many cases.  

Long-Term Value and Appeal to the Household  

Fireplaces are still one of the most desirable elements in real estate listings. While wood-burning models still appeal to some buyers, many who use gas are attracted to the convenience, safety and energy savings offered by the fuel. A gas fireplace insert provides not only warmth, but perceived value as well, especially if it is a low maintenance efficient upgrade.  

Additionally, utility cost savings over time may help to offset the cost of installation. By displacing heating use from central heating, reducing or eliminating the need to clean chimneys or deliver wood, a gas insert is an investment that pays for itself in comfort and lower monthly bills.  

Choosing What Works for Your Home  

There's no simple answer when it comes to wood-burning fireplaces versus gas fireplace inserts. Your choice may hinge on whether you're trying to preserve the character of a historic home, work with the logistics of a remodel, or are just looking for a cleaner, more efficient way of enjoying a fire.  

Here are some final things to take into account:  

• If you prioritize convenience and modern technologies, a gas fireplace insert provides a cleaner, more efficient solution with minimal maintenance.  
• If you enjoy the process of building fires and enjoy the smell of the real wood, perhaps a traditional unit will be more to your personal taste, but it comes with extra responsibility.  
• An insert is a great option if you are looking to upgrade the efficiency of an existing fireplace without needing to replace the entire hearth.  

At Fireside, we support helping you to weigh these pros and cons with personalized consultation, showroom tours and expert planning assistance. Our team specializes in matching the proper product to the architecture of your home and the lifestyle intentions for your family.  

Visit Fireside to See Gas Fireplace Inserts for Yourself  

When you're looking to find the most efficient and stylish way to bring fire into your home, gas fireplace inserts have no equal - in ease of use, heating power, safety, and environmental responsibility.  

Whether you're upgrading an old fireplace or doing a remodel from scratch, Fireside have the tools, knowledge and team to help you through the process from selection through installation and beyond.  

Stop by a Fireside showroom near you and see why thousands of homeowners trust us with their fireplace projects. Let's make your home warmer, safer and more efficient - without compromising the charm that you love.