GAS APPLIANCES

GAS FIREPLACES

With hundreds of designs, styles and sizes, there’s a gas fireplace for almost any home in North America. And with a tremendous list of features, gas fireplaces offer many benefits, including convenience and ease-of-use. Excitingly, gas fireplaces are one of the hottest hearth products on the market for new and existing homes because of the incredible installation flexibility and wide array of log styles and flame choices. But the best news about gas fireplaces is how much the fire looks, and performs, like real wood.

To heat or not to heat

A gas fireplace is a factory-built firebox complete with a glass face for viewing the fire. Some gas fireplaces are designed exclusively for aesthetic and decorative use, while others are built to heat a room. There are even gas fireplaces that are “heater-rated” and provide efficiency and heat output similar to a central furnace. Models are also available with ducting to help circulate heat throughout a particular zone of a house.

Realistic “wood” fire

Cozying up to a fire in a fireplace is warm and soothing. And today’s gas fireplaces provide the opportunity for everyone to enjoy this type of relaxation with the touch of a button. Thanks to years of research and development by the hearth industry, the burner design in some gas fireplaces can generate a fire that so closely resembles a wood burning fire, it’s difficult for even experts to tell the difference. And most of today’s gas fireplaces also operate when the power goes out, a great comfort during winter storms.

Installation flexibility

A gas fireplace can be installed almost anywhere in the home as long as natural gas or propane is available. Installation can even occur along an outside wall or in the middle of a room. This installation flexibility is the result of zero clearance construction where little space is needed between the unit and combustible materials such as wood or wallboard. Venting options assist in making the logistics of positioning a fireplace much less complicated, but it is important to work with a professional to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for installation.

From traditional to ultra-modern

When it comes to the look of a gas fireplace, there are hundreds of options from which to choose. Designs range from traditional to contemporary to ultra-modern. There are large and small sizes, as well as arched and uniquely shaped contours, and even see-through fireplaces that allow the fire to be seen both in and outside the house. Regardless of the fireplace design selected, adding unique tiles and mantel combinations to the outside of the fireplace can enhance the final appearance.

Selecting a Gas Fireplace

Much like any other appliance, it is important to spend the time to choose a gas fireplace that fits your needs. Before making a final decision, visit a specialty retailer for experienced advice. A specialty retailer is a trained gas fireplace expert. He or she can arrange for the safe and reliable installation of a gas fireplace by a certified professional installer. A specialty retailer can assist in creating the proper look for your home. These experts are also the best source of information about how to correctly operate a gas fireplace and proper maintenance requirements.

Type

There are three types of gas fireplaces: natural vent, direct vent and power-vent. Within these categories, there are models that are “heater-rated” and those designed solely for decorative purposes. Choosing the right type of fireplace is dictated by regional climate as well as the age and construction of the home and the amount of heat required.

Size

Gas fireplaces can range from small to extremely large. Choosing a size is based on the amount of heat the fireplace needs to generate, if heating is the goal, or the desired aesthetic appearance of the fire.

Location

Today’s technology allows the installation of a gas fireplace into almost any area of the home. A gas fireplace can be installed in the center of a room, under a window, or anywhere a gas line is available.

Venting

Natural vented gas fireplaces are designed to vent through the roof using B-vent gas pipe. Direct-vented units vent through the wall behind the fireplace. Power-vented gas fireplaces use an electrical fan to assist the venting process.

Features

The operation of a gas fireplace is generally controlled by use of a wall thermostat or by manual control, although some units have remote control devices. Most gas fireplaces have easy push button ignition systems. Gas fireplaces also come with other features such as variable speed fans and glass faces that allow the full view of the fire.

Style

A wide variety of shapes and sizes are available in gas fireplaces, along with design styles from contemporary to traditional to ultra-modern. The style of a gas fireplace is also enhanced by the fireplace media. Traditional gas fireplaces have gas log sets designed to simulate the look of natural firewood. Contemporary gas fireplaces have a variety of media available, including glass, rocks, pebbles and driftwood and birch log sets.

Installation

To ensure the safe and reliable installation of a gas fireplace, HPBAC recommends that people use a specialty retailer and certified professional installer. In addition to assessing the construction of the house, the professional will make sure the installation meets all applicable building codes.

Maintenance

Gas fireplaces are clean burning and require little maintenance. Because efficiency and safety is an important issue, HPBAC recommends that a gas fireplace be professionally serviced at least once a year to ensure top performance and aesthetic appearance. A qualified professional inspects the burner, fan, venting, pilot light and thermostat, and even cleans the glass. HPBAC also recommends that all vents for vented gas fireplaces be inspected on an annual basis by a WETT-certified chimney sweep. HPBAC also recommends the installation of a carbon monoxide detector with all gas hearth products.

Fuel requirements

Natural gas and propane are the fuels available for gas fireplaces. Natural gas is the most widely used, while propane is often used where natural gas is not available.

Average cost

The price of the unit itself is only part of the total cost of owning a gas fireplace. Other requirements include the cost of the chimney and/or installation, annual fuel costs and annual maintenance.

Heat & Glo Foundation FDN-4-SS Gas Fireplace

Savannah Genesis Infinity 60 Gas Fireplace

Montigo DelRay Linear DRL4813 Gas Fireplace

GAS STOVES

The key features of gas freestanding stoves are ambiance and convenience. With a push of a button, or the turn of the thermostat, the glowing, dancing fire in a gas stove is instantaneously warm and tremendously soothing. Then just as quickly, the fire can be turned off! Gas stoves are both beautiful and efficient, serving as heaters as well as interior design elements. And gas stoves today can help people with older central furnaces save money on the cost to heat their home. One of the most stunning features of gas stoves is how much the fire looks like a wood burning fire.

Options galore in gas stoves

There are two different types of gas freestanding stoves available in Canada – top vent and direct vent. Within these categories there is a wide range of available sizes with varying heating capabilities. This creates a wide variety of options for people interested in adding a gas stove. But the best benefit to gas stoves is the installation flexibility which makes it easy to install a gas stove in just about any location in a house.

Gas stoves look like wood burners

The viewing window plays a tremendous role in the enjoyment of gas stoves today because of the beauty of the fire. Advanced burner technology has aided in the development of gas stoves that feature large, dancing yellow flames and glowing red embers that so closely resemble a wood fire, even die-hard wood burners have a hard time telling the difference. This authentic “wood-like” appearance is also improved by intricately molded and hand-painted logs that look just like fresh cut wood… it’s that amazing! Rocks and other media are also available in gas stoves.

Gas stove zone heating saves money

Gas stoves can help save money on heating costs through zone heating. Zone heating means a stove is used to heat only a specific area of a home, such as family room or living room. In homes with older central furnaces, zone heating with a gas stove can help reduce fuel consumption, conserve energy and save dollars while maintaining comfort. But the most exciting part of zone heating is how gas stoves provide a wonderful, penetrating heat that furnaces can’t beat and an aesthetically-pleasing fire.

A style for every home

Gas stoves can be purchased in a tremendous array of designs, colors and finishes. Many manufacturers produce stoves that reflect certain architectural styles, such as Contemporary, Mission, Art Deco, Early American and French Country. Brushed metals and high gloss porcelain enamel in dozens of colors are also frequent design elements on gas stoves, while granite, marble or soapstone panels add textural interest. A gas stove can also add appeal and blend easily into the interior design scheme of a room.

Selecting a Gas Stove

Much like any other appliance, it is important to spend the time to choose the right gas stove to fit your needs. Before you make your final decision, visit a specialty retailer for experienced advice. A specialty retailer is a trained gas stove expert. He or she can arrange for the safe and reliable installation of a gas stove by a certified professional installer. Specialty retailers are also the best source of information about how to correctly operate a gas stove and what is required for proper maintenance.

Type

There are two types of gas freestanding stoves available in Canada – top vent and direct vent. Choosing the right type of stove is dictated by regional climate as well as the age and construction of a home and the amount of heat required..

Size

Gas stoves can range from small to extremely large, but choosing a size is based more on the amount of heat the stove needs to generate. One key to selecting the right stove is determining the desired heat level in the rooms that will require heat.

Location

A gas stove must be installed a specific distance away from combustible materials such as drapes and doors. The distance from a wall will vary from stove to stove, but can be as little as four inches depending on the type of stove.

Venting

Gas stoves can be top-vented through an existing chimney or B-vent aluminum gas pipe, or direct-vented through the wall behind the stove or through the ceiling above the stove. 

Features

The delivery of heat from most gas stoves is controlled by use of a wall thermostat, although some have remote control devices. Other features include variable speed blowers and glass doors that allow a full view of the fire. Adjustable heat output and flame height are additional options.

Style

A wide variety of designs, finishes and colours is available to fit with virtually any room décor. These include contemporary, colonial and traditional styles; textured metals and high gloss enamel paint; stone panel insets; and legs versus pedestal bases.

Installation

To ensure the safe and reliable installation of a gas stove, HPBAC recommends that people use a specialty retailer and a certified professional installer to perform installation tasks. In addition to assessing the construction of a house, the professionals will obtain the necessary building permits and make sure the installation meets all applicable building codes. In some situations, the chosen installation area needs to accommodate a hearth pad underneath the stove.

Maintenance

Gas stoves burn very clean and require little maintenance. But, because safety is an issue, HPBAC recommends a gas stove be professionally serviced at least every two years to ensure top performance, and that all chimneys and vents be inspected on an annual basis by a WETT-certified chimney sweep. Gas stove owners can perform routine tasks such as cleaning the blower motor and the viewing glass.

Fuel requirements

Natural gas and propane are the fuels available for gas stoves. Natural gas is the most widely used, while propane is often chosen when natural gas is not available. In many cases, stoves can operate on either type of fuel but are installed to operate on only one. After installation, some gas stoves can be converted to burn the alternate fuel with a conversion kit.

Average cost

The price of the unit itself is only part of the total cost of owning a gas stove. Other requirements include the cost of the chimney and/or installation, annual fuel costs and annual maintenance.

Valor Madrona Gas Stove

Blaze King Clarity 26 Gas Stove

GAS LOGS

The ambiance of a flickering fire in the fireplace can take the edge off a hectic day and soothe away stress. For those with limited time or energy, building a welcoming fire isn’t always a simple task. But there is a solution. Install a set of gas logs into the fireplace and enjoy a fire in seconds, whether for an hour or the entire evening. Gas logs are easy to use, require little maintenance, and enhance the aesthetic appeal of a fireplace, whether turned on or off.

Clean, convenient and comfortable

A gas log set consists of a gas burner covered in “firewood” made from fire-proof molded refractory cement, extruded bisque ceramic clay or molded ceramic fibers, depending on the manufacturer and model. Gas logs, are a terrific way to enjoy a gas fire in an existing wood burning fireplace and are a good choice for a fire with little mess or environmental impact. The addition of a gas log set can reduce the amount of work associated with building a fire while helping protect winter air quality. But the best feature of gas logs is the convenience of enjoying the fire. In addition to easy ignition options, there are many ways to control the flame height and the look of the fire as well as the available warmth, whether manually or by remote control.

Minimal installation requirements

Gas logs can be professionally installed in most masonry or factory-built wood burning fireplaces as long as the fireplace and chimney are in good shape, and natural gas or propane gas is available.

The identical twin to wood

One of the biggest choices when selecting a gas log set is deciding on the style of firewood. The logs within a gas log set are designed to mimic actual wood and are available in many varieties, including oak, birch, manzanita, pine, and walnut. Some manufacturers even produce driftwood gas log sets. When creating log sets, manufacturers use actual stacked firewood to form a mold. The cast logs are then detailed, often by hand, with authentic colors and bark textures, including knotholes, forked branches and ax marks. To finish the look, manufacturers engineer burner systems to perfectly replicate the dancing flames of a fire complete with a bed of glowing coals and embers.

A style for every home

Gas stoves can be purchased in a tremendous array of designs, colors and finishes. Many manufacturers produce stoves that reflect certain architectural styles, such as Contemporary, Mission, Art Deco, Early American and French Country. Brushed metals and high gloss porcelain enamel in dozens of colors are also frequent design elements on gas stoves, while granite, marble or soapstone panels add textural interest. A gas stove can also add appeal and blend easily into the interior design scheme of a room.

Selecting a Gas Log Set

Much like any other appliance, it is important to spend the time to choose the gas log set that fits your needs. Before making your final decision, visit a specialty retailer for experienced advice. A specialty retailer is a trained gas log expert. He or she can arrange for the safe and reliable installation of a gas log set by a certified professional installer. Specialty retailers are also the best source of information about how to correctly operate a gas log set and proper maintenance requirements.

Type

There are three kinds of materials used to create gas log sets: molded refractory cement, extruded bisque ceramic clay and molded ceramic fibers. In addition to the logs, each log set generally includes a grate and a burner system.

Size

Gas log sets generally range in size from 12 to 60 inches in width. The depth and height of log sets varies by manufacturer. The size of a vented log set is dictated by the available flue size.

Location

Gas logs are approved for installation within most open masonry or factory-built wood burning fireplaces as long as the fireplace and chimney are clean and in proper working condition. A fireplace must accommodate the width, height and depth of the gas logs with approximately six inches of clearance all around. 

Venting

With a vented gas log set, the damper must remain open when in use. To reduce heat loss, it is a good idea to install a set of glass doors to close off the firebox when the logs are not in use.

Features

Features include easy-to-use ignition systems, including manual (light with a match), standing pilot light, electronic ignition, and remote controlled. Operation is either manual or automatic with a remote location switch or wireless remote control. Gas log sets also come with wood style grates, glowing embers and sand granules for underneath the logs.

Style

Gas logs are cast to resemble virtually many types of firewood. Wood types are often available in both split stacked and whole log stacks. Another style element is the look of the flame, which is controlled by the burner design.

Installation

To ensure the safe and reliable installation of a gas log set, HPBAC recommends that a specialty retailer and a certified professional installer perform all installation tasks. In addition to assessing the construction of the fireplace, the professional will make sure that the installation meets all local and state codes and that the chimney is in good working order.

Maintenance

Gas log sets burn very clean and require little maintenance. Because safety is an important issue, HPBAC recommends that a gas log set be professionally serviced every year to ensure top performance, and that all vents for vented log sets be inspected on an annual basis by a WETT-certified chimney sweep. HPBAC also recommends the installation of a carbon monoxide detector with all gas hearth products.

Fuel requirements

Natural gas and propane are the fuels available for gas logs. Natural gas is the most widely used, while propane is often used where natural gas is not available. With propane, the standing pilot light option is required.

Average cost

The price of the unit itself is only part of the total cost of owning a gas log set. Other requirements include the cost of the gas line (if not already plumbed), installation, annual fuel costs and annual maintenance. If the gas line is needed, contact a qualified plumber or contractor.

Majestic Fireside Grand Oak Gas Log Set

Napoleon Fiberglow Gas Log Set

The So Cozy Initiative

The So Cozy Initiative has been developed through EnerGuide to promote the beauty, value and efficiency of gas appliances.

Get in the Zone . . . Heating

When you think about day-to-day living in your house, you can probably identify the rooms you use the most and when. Zone heating allows you to add warmth to those areas when you need it.

Heat the space you use

Zoned heating gives you control over how and where you add heat to your home. With a zoned heating option like a gas fireplace, you can turn down your thermostat and still make any space cozy whenever you want. And by targeting and efficiently heating just the space you are using, you can reduce your overall heating costs and consume less energy.

Radiate warmth

From the moment your gas fireplace is switched on, the glass begins to radiate heat into the room, warming not just the air but also the surrounding furniture and objects. This radiant heat consumes less energy, lasts longer than convection heating, and keeps all the air in the room warm. With a gas fireplace, you can use zone-heating to make any space in your home cozy. Plus, gas fireplaces are affordable to install and easy to use. 

Picture your Fireplace

Today’s gas fireplaces are designed to fit any space and any style, adding an attractive focal point to any room. When you picture yourself gathering around a gas fireplace, enjoying the warmth and beauty, what does it look like? Is it a slice of the outdoors brought inside, with a stone-covered hearth tucked into a corner, or are you enjoying a contemporary double-sided gas fireplace in an open-concept room? With gas fireplaces in every style – traditional to mid-century modern, contemporary to rustic – it’s easy to choose a focal point that reflects your personal style.

Valor H3 Gas Fireplace

SBI Valcourt L48 Gas Fireplace

Woodbridge Montana Gas Fireplace

Regency Contura RC500E Gas Stove

Adding a Gas Fireplace

When you think about adding a gas fireplace to your home, you may not be aware of all the options you have to easily add the warmth and beauty of a fire to any space.

From retro-fitting an existing hearth with a fireplace insert to adding a new standalone fireplace, the variety of sizes, styles and venting options allow you to install a fireplace in almost any home. Whether you want to enhance a large room or the coziness of a small nook, there is a gas fireplace for you. Don’t have a chimney? With a gas fireplace you have the option of installing a direct vent system, which takes in air from outside and vents via an outside wall. Don’t have easy access to natural gas? Propane gas fireplaces are another option to add warmth and beauty to your room. The variety of gas fireplace styles, sizes and installation options means that you can decide based on the size of your room, the location of your fuel access, and your heating and aesthetic goals.

Add easier zone heating

Gas fireplaces are also a smart, cost-effective solution for zone heating. Adding a full zone-based heating system is a fairly complex retro-fit to your home, requiring the installation of switches, valves and controls to your furnace and duct system. In comparison, gas fireplaces are easy to install and easy to use – adding warmth at the touch of a button.

Pick your pro

Once you’ve determined your heating system objectives, the next step is to visit a specialty hearth retailer. They’ll be able to assess your space and help you find the right appliance for your home and ensure safe and reliable installation, while meeting all municipal guidelines and provincial codes.

Hello low maintenance

Once you’ve got the gas fireplace you need, using and maintaining it couldn’t be easier. With the touch of a button, your gas fire is ready to brighten and heat your room. When you’re ready to leave the room, another click and you can walk away without worrying about hot spots, stray embers, or ashes. Because they’re clean burning, most gas fireplaces require little maintenance – yearly professional service should keep it ready to get you cozy at the touch of button!

Learn more about gas fireplace energy efficiency.

Choose an EnerChoice Fireplace

Efficiency is a significant benefit of purchasing a gas fireplace. Look for the EnerChoice certification mark, or visit Enerchoice.org, to find a a higher efficiency model that meets your needs. Just like Energy Star helps find energy efficient appliances, an EnerChoice rating means you’ve chosen a top efficiency-rated gas appliance.

Your homework is done

EnerChoice was established by the Hearth Patio and Barbecue Association of Canada, in partnership with regulators and the industry, to help you identify the most efficient gas fireplaces and gas heating appliances.

To qualify for the EnerChoice designation, each gas fireplace model must be tested by Canadian Standards Association methods and meet the energy efficiency thresholds set by the HPBA. When you see the EnerChoice trademark it means you’ve chosen one of the most efficient gas fireplaces in the market.

Find the best

EnerChoice makes it easy to find the higher efficiency gas fireplace that is right for you. Search the EnerChoice Fireplace Database to compare models. Looking for a specific manufacturer? You can also search the database for your preferred brands. EnerChoice also provides other helpful resources to understand fireplace efficiency.

Save money

Whether you’re building a new home or adding a gas fireplace to an existing room, it‘s worth checking to see if your fireplace will qualify for energy and environmental rebates through municipal, provincial and federal programs. EnerChoice has a list of available rebates here.

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