Gas inserts are a popular solution for upgrading a traditional wood-burning fireplace. They have several pros, making them an attractive alternative for keeping your home warm and cosy. Here are several reasons you should fit gas inserts in your residence.
1. Convenience
Gas inserts are incredibly easy to use. You can start and stop the fire with the touch of a button. The insert also allows control over other functions like temperature levels. Furthermore, gas is a convenient fuel, burning without smoke, ash, or any residue and reducing the need for cleaning. Since gas is delivered through council pipelines or in commercial cylinders, sourcing or storing fuel is unnecessary, making it all the more convenient.
2. Energy efficiency
Gas inserts are highly efficient, with many models boasting 70% or higher efficiency ratings. The inserts produce more heat for less fuel and less cost. Moreover, gas inserts are great at warming up expansive spaces since they have minimal heat losses and heat distribution fans.
3. Clean combustion
Gas inserts burn cleanly, emitting far fewer pollutants than traditional wood-burning fireplaces. This is great for the environment as it reduces each household’s carbon footprint. Furthermore, the gas burns without an odour and doesn’t compromise the air quality in your space.
4. Safety
Gas inserts are much safer than wood-burning fireplaces. Burning gas doesn’t produce sparks or embers that can escape the combustion chamber and risk a fire. Furthermore, gas inserts don’t produce creosote, a highly flammable substance that can build up in traditional chimneys. The instant on/off function also gives users control over the flames, making it easy to handle emergencies. Other fittings that improve safety include gas leak detectors and fire extinguishers.
5. Versatile user experience
Gas inserts allow you to control your overall experience by controlling the heat output and flame size. Many models come with thermostats or remote controls that enable you to adjust the temperature and flame height to your liking. Some models also have fans to enhance heat distribution across a room.
6. Low maintenance
Gas inserts need very little maintenance compared to traditional wood-burning fireplaces. There’s no need to clean out ashes, sweep the chimney, or have the flue inspected. Furthermore, the inserts have a sturdy build that’s certain to stand the test of time.
7. Easy installation
Gas inserts are relatively easy to install, especially when replacing an existing wood-burning fireplace. The installation is quick and doesn’t require major renovations or structural modifications. The pre-existing flue is modified during installation, and the insert is fitted and secured in the fireplace.
Although gas inserts are an excellent replacement for wood-burning fireplaces, they have some drawbacks.
Firstly, the units can be expensive to purchase and install. The average cost can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, depending on the model and installation requirements.
Furthermore, gas inserts don’t produce the same ambience as a wood-burning fireplace. There’s no smoky smell or crackling sound, and the flames don’t look as natural as a wood fire.
Lastly, gas inserts require a steady supply of natural gas or propane. If there’s any disruption in the supply, the insert becomes unusable.
Despite the drawbacks, gas inserts are an excellent replacement for traditional wood-burning fireplaces. Therefore, if you have the budget for the replacement, go ahead and upgrade. You will love it.
Also read: 4 Advantages of Making The Switch To Pellet Stoves
