When you’re adding or updating your fireplace, one of the ideas that may have come to mind is switching things up to a gas fireplace. Whether you want the traditional appearance of a gas log in your existing fireplace or a completely modernized gas fireplace, you probably already know that energy efficiency, easy and safe use, and low maintenance make gas fireplaces a top contender for your next fireplace. Here are some top ideas you can consider when it comes to a new gas fireplace design for your Rochester home.
Top Ideas to Optimize Your Gas Fireplace Design
Insert or Log?
A fireplace insert is placed in your existing masonry fireplace or hearth opening to convert and upgrade that space into a gas fireplace. The insert is a burner that is located within a pair of metal boxes that allows air to be consistently heated between the two boxes, while fumes created during the combustion process are vented to the outdoors.
By comparison, a gas log simply takes the place of the firewood in your existing fireplace. The log is ceramic and can take on the appearance of a wide range of wood types, including axe marks, branches, knots, and imperfections, providing a more realistic appearance to your fireplace.
Direct Vent, Vented Gas, or Ventless?
There are also three ways to vent the fumes created during combustion. A direct vent system brings in air for combustion from the outdoors, then vents the emissions from the combustion to the outdoors, typically requiring construction on and exhaust through an exterior wall and requiring a glass door to operate properly.
By comparison, a vented gas system sends emissions up through a vent or chimney to expel the emissions outdoors, including usage through an existing chimney. A ventless system is the most efficient due to the lack of ventilation to the outdoors, and can be installed almost anywhere, but requires electricity due to their automatic shutoff valves and sensors.
Match, Pilot, or Electric Ignition?
When it comes to gas fireplace design for your Rochester home, the next question is how do you want the system to light? The simplest system is to use a match to ignite the gas, but this can cause concerns for some home or business owners, especially given the issues that can pop up with small children tampering with the system if not secured.
A pilot light, or standing pilot, is another option, where a small flame will constantly burn until the system is set up to ignite and heat, but this does cause a small amount of gas to be constantly burned. By comparison, electric or electronic ignition allows your fireplace to be lit at the touch of a button and may stop the flow of gas and attempt to relight the flame if a flame isn’t detected.
Heat Distribution and Turndown Range
Gas fireplaces are available in a wide range of outputs, usually ranging from a low of 7,000 BTUs to a high of 60,000 BTUs. You’ll want to take your gas bill as well as your home’s energy efficiency into account when selecting a unit.
Similarly, you may want to decide on a specific turndown range. The turndown range or ratio that is 25:1 means that you can adjust the flame from 25% to 100% capacity, while a 20:1 means that you can adjust the flame from 20% to 100% capacity, giving you a wider temperature range.
Automatic Thermostats and Blowers
Typically used with either a piloted or electric ignition, an automatic thermostat on your gas fireplace allows you to have the fireplace go on or off automatically when specific temperatures are reached. With modern technology, you can even adjust this with your smartphone while away from home, provided that you have the right type of thermostat.
A blower is a great option if you’re planning to have your fireplace heat a larger area of your home, though they do require electricity to operate. The blower will move the warm air around your home, allowing air that has cooled to be warmed back up at the fireplace before being redistributed around your home, allowing for more even heating.
By taking these considerations into account when planning for a new gas fireplace design for your Rochester home, you can get the exact look that you’re going for without the mess, pain, or hassles of wood. If you’re considering adding a gas fireplace to your home or business in Rochester, or have installation or modernization questions, the experienced team at Four Winds Chimney are always happy to discuss your ideas, or take a look at what’s currently in place to give you a solid estimate of the cost. Ready to get started? Just give our friendly team a quick call today!
