{"id":1027,"date":"2018-10-09T17:06:49","date_gmt":"2018-10-09T17:06:49","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.topratedfireplaceinserts.com\/?page_id=1027"},"modified":"2018-10-09T17:31:38","modified_gmt":"2018-10-09T17:31:38","slug":"fireplace-buying-guide-frequently-asked-questions","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.topratedfireplaceinserts.com\/fireplace-buying-guide-frequently-asked-questions\/","title":{"rendered":"Fireplace Buying Guide – Frequently Asked Questions"},"content":{"rendered":"

Here are the most frequently asked questions about fireplaces – gas and electric fireplaces<\/a> especially.<\/p>\n

These include questions about buying the right type of fireplace, safety tips, installation tips, energy consumption and installation.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n

\n

General Fireplace Questions<\/b><\/strong><\/h2>\n

When is it appropriate to install a fireplace in a home? <\/b><\/strong><\/h3>\n

There are many different types of fireplaces today. So regardless of your situation at home, you can\u2019t miss a fireplace that\u2019s perfect for your space.<\/p>\n

For instance, if you live in an apartment, a wood or gas fireplace is out of the question.<\/p>\n

But you can install a wall-mount<\/a>\u00a0or TV-stand electric fireplace<\/a>.<\/strong><\/p>\n

If on the other hand you live in your own house or are currently building a home, it\u2019s easier to install a wood or gas fireplace.<\/p>\n

Talk to a local electrician, appliance store or builder to recommend the best fireplace for your space, budget and needs.<\/p>\n

Do fireplaces use a lot of energy? <\/b><\/strong><\/h3>\n

Modern fireplaces come with sealed designs that make them much more energy efficient.<\/p>\n

Take wood-burning fireplaces<\/strong> for instance.<\/p>\n

Traditional styles had wastefully low energy efficiency ratings of just 15%<\/strong>, with most of the heat escaping up the chimney.<\/p>\n

Modern wood-burning fireplaces today, however, are often\u00a0up to 75% efficient<\/a>.<\/strong><\/p>\n

Modern gas fireplaces are equally efficient. Though they are not yet at the level of high-efficiency gas furnaces, modern direct-vent and vent-free models can be 80% or more efficient.<\/strong><\/p>\n

Electric fireplaces are the most efficient<\/strong> of all. All the heat produced is directed inside the house without loss through the chimney or venting.<\/p>\n

All types of fireplaces can help you reduce energy consumption in your home.<\/p>\n

When you use the fireplace for supplemental zoned heating, you can keep the thermostat set low and save on utility bills.<\/p>\n

Will a fireplace make my home more valuable? <\/b><\/strong><\/h3>\n

This is something worth considering if you plan to sell (or rent) your home later.<\/p>\n

The good news is yes, a fireplace can add more value to your home.<\/strong><\/p>\n

A 2012 survey<\/a>, found that a fireplace is one of the top 3 amenities<\/strong> that prospective buyers look for in a house.<\/p>\n

So not only will a fireplace increase resale value, but it will also bring more buyers to the door.<\/p>\n

The actual value they add to home will depend on the type of fireplace and location. A wood or gas fireplace is likely to add more value if your home is located in a cold climate region.<\/p>\n

On average, buyers are willing to pay $1,220 more<\/strong> for a home with a fireplace. In specific locations, that figure jumps to <\/a>$12,000.<\/strong><\/p>\n

Note<\/strong> that electric fireplaces add the least value to a home<\/strong> and sometimes may not add any at all. This is because they are cheaper and usually don\u2019t produce as much heat as wood or gas fireplaces.<\/p>\n

Many are used primarily for aesthetics.<\/strong><\/p>\n

Which type of fireplace should I buy: Wood, gas or electric?<\/b><\/strong><\/h3>\n

\"Best<\/p>\n

This will depend on your specific situation.<\/strong><\/p>\n

If you already have existing gas lines, it\u2019s easier to install a gas fireplace<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

If not, consider a wood fireplace.<\/p>\n

If you are living in an apartment or don\u2019t have the budget to install a wood\/gas fireplace, then an electric fireplace is a good choice.<\/p>\n

Are fireplaces safe for indoor use?<\/b><\/strong><\/h3>\n

\"Dimplex<\/p>\n

It depends.<\/p>\n

When buying a fireplace, make sure it is rated for indoor use. Then make sure you install it as directed by the manufacturer.<\/p>\n

This will ensure there are no hazards such as harmful emissions, fire or electrical damage<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

Follow your local building codes and work only with a licensed pro.<\/p>\n

When installed and used properly, fireplaces are safe.<\/strong><\/p>\n

Be extra cautious if you have kids and pets.<\/strong> Wood and gas fireplaces get very hot. Use a screen or gate to keep curious babies and pets away from the flames.<\/p>\n

You can also opt for an electric fireplace to resolve most of the issues above<\/strong>. It\u2019s much safer since most of it stays cool to the touch. Only the heater vent gets hot.<\/p>\n

Another safety advantage of electric fireplaces is that they have no emissions at all.<\/strong><\/p>\n

How much heat do fireplaces emit? <\/b><\/strong><\/h3>\n

First, check whether the fireplace gives off any heat at all. Some electric fireplaces don\u2019t come with an integrated heater. They are purely for aesthetics<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

But most electric fireplaces and all gas\/wood fireplaces do produce heat.<\/p>\n

The maximum heat output will vary from the fireplace to fireplace.<\/p>\n

Gas and wood fireplaces can produce as much as 60,000-80,000<\/strong> BTU<\/a>s depending on amount and type of fuel. They are great for whole-home heating.<\/p>\n

Most electric fireplaces produce up to 5,000 BTUs of heat<\/strong> although some can go as high as 10,000 BTUs<\/strong>. They can heat spaces measuring 400-1000 square feet.<\/strong><\/p>\n

Do fireplaces have emissions and are they harmful?<\/b><\/strong><\/h3>\n

Wood and gas fireplaces can produce some harmful emissions<\/strong> that are bad for pets and humans.<\/p>\n

You can minimize these emissions by strictly following the manufacturer\u2019s installation instructions and the local building code.<\/strong><\/p>\n

Electric fireplaces have no emissions at all.<\/p>\n

Can a fireplace be mounted on a wall?<\/b><\/strong><\/h3>\n

\"Best<\/p>\n

Yes, some wood, gas and electric fireplaces can be mounted on a wall<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

Talk to a pro if you prefer a wall-mounted fireplace<\/strong>. They\u2019ll help you choose the best one for your needs and install it safely.<\/p>\n

Can I recess the fireplace into the wall? <\/b><\/strong><\/h3>\n

This will depend on the type of fireplace as well as your home\u2019s construction.<\/p>\n

With electric fireplaces, it\u2019s easy to find models that can be recessed into the wall – check out our favorite wall-mounted units here<\/a>.<\/p>\n

For a recessed wood\/gas fireplace<\/strong>, there are a lot more factors to consider.\u00a0 If you are going to go gas or wood, then definitely discuss your needs with a pro for expert advice.<\/strong><\/p>\n

How do I clean the glass in front of my fireplace?<\/b><\/strong><\/h3>\n

In many cases, wiping the glass with a moist microfiber cloth is enough<\/strong>. However, you may need to use special cleaners or an ash paste<\/a> if there are soot and stains on the glass.<\/p>\n

Water + vinegar solutions<\/strong> also work well for removing streaks and gentle stains.<\/p>\n

That said, there are several different types of tempered glass and coatings used in modern fireplace glass covers. Refer to the user manual for instructions on how to safely clean the glass without damaging it.<\/strong><\/p>\n

How much does a new fireplace cost?<\/b><\/strong><\/h3>\n

Electric fireplaces are the cheapest with some models selling for less than $300<\/strong>. Gas\/wood fireplaces range between $1,000 and $15,000.<\/strong><\/p>\n

Don\u2019t forget to factor in installation costs in your budget, too. Installation is especially expensive for wood and gas burning fireplaces.<\/strong><\/p>\n

Accounting for materials and labor, installation of a gas or wood fireplace can sometimes double the total cost of the fireplace.<\/p>\n

Electric fireplaces are not only cheaper to buy, they are also less expensive<\/strong> and sometimes cost-free to install.<\/p>\n

Unless the fireplace needs to be recessed or hardwired, you can usually install it yourself<\/a>.<\/p>\n

\n

FAQs About Gas Fireplaces <\/b><\/strong><\/h2>\n

How safe are gas fireplaces?<\/b><\/strong><\/h3>\n

\"32<\/p>\n

They are very safe as long as they are correctly installed<\/strong>. Only hire a licensed pro to install a gas fireplace safely.<\/strong><\/p>\n

Remember that gas fireplaces can get extremely hot, making them a hazard for curious kids and pets. If you have children or pets in the house, use a protective screen or pen.<\/p>\n

Can I add accessories to a gas fireplace after installation?<\/b><\/strong><\/h3>\n

\"anatomy<\/p>\n

Yes, you can. Just make sure they don\u2019t interfere with the efficiency or safety of the fireplace.<\/p>\n

Some popular accessories include faux bricks, faux logs<\/strong> to make it look like a wood fireplace, decorative screens and fireplace media such as crystals and rocks.<\/strong><\/p>\n

Can I adjust how much heat the fireplace produces? <\/b><\/strong><\/h3>\n

Yes, most gas fireplaces allow you to change the level of heat output. You can lower or raise the thermostat depending on your heating needs.<\/p>\n

Check the user manual for instructions on how to adjust the heat for your specific model.<\/p>\n

Can a wood fireplace be converted into a gas fireplace?<\/b><\/strong><\/h3>\n

Yes, it is usually possible to make the conversion.<\/p>\n

A pro will need to inspect the existing fireplace and chimney to determine whether it can accommodate a gas unit.<\/p>\n

The overall cost to convert a wood fireplace to a gas-burning one can range between $500-$5,000<\/strong> depending on how much work needs to be done and the type of gas fireplace<\/strong> you plan to install.<\/p>\n

Make sure you hire a licensed pro<\/strong> to do the conversion.<\/p>\n

Do I need to hire a pro to install a gas fireplace? <\/b><\/strong><\/h3>\n

You may be able to install the gas fireplace yourself, but that doesn\u2019t mean that you should.<\/p>\n

For safety, you should always hire a pro to install a gas fireplace<\/strong>. They have the experience and training to properly install the fireplace in such a way that is safe and maximizes energy efficiency.<\/strong><\/p>\n

The local building code may also prohibit anyone without a license from installing a gas fireplace.<\/strong><\/p>\n

Is it safe to have the TV right above the fireplace?<\/b><\/strong><\/h3>\n

\"electric<\/p>\n

Electronics are heat-sensitive and operate best in a cool environment.<\/p>\n

The smoke and emissions from the fireplace can also damage the electronic components.<\/strong><\/p>\n

If you can, avoid installing the TV over the fireplace.<\/strong><\/p>\n

But if you have no other choice, make sure you leave enough space between the fireplace and the TV. Check the manual to see the minimum distance the manufacturer recommends.<\/p>\n

I also recommend getting a professional installer to handle the installation. They will ensure the TV is installed at the correct height without any risk of damage from the heat or emissions.<\/p>\n

Note:<\/strong> If you install a TV above the fireplace, it will be higher on the wall<\/strong>. This can cause neck strain for family members as they watch the TV. Either push the sitting area further back or get a tilting TV to mitigate this problem.<\/strong><\/p>\n

Does a gas fireplace require electricity? <\/b><\/strong><\/h3>\n

If your gas fireplace comes with a standing\/vertical pilot<\/strong>, it will ignite even when there\u2019s no power.<\/p>\n

Certain fireplaces have electronic ignition systems<\/strong> that won\u2019t work if there\u2019s no electricity. But some have battery backups.<\/p>\n

If your fireplace has a fan or blower,<\/strong> then it needs electricity to operate. In the event of a power outage, it will still work, but the heat will not be distributed as efficiently.<\/p>\n

Is the glass front of the fireplace removable?<\/b><\/strong><\/h3>\n

Yes, you can remove the glass panel at the front of the fireplace. This is necessary during cleaning.<\/strong><\/p>\n

But make sure the fireplace has cooled completely<\/strong> before you attempt to touch it. You should wait at least 6-8 hours<\/strong> after turning off the fire before trying to remove the glass.<\/p>\n

Refer to the user manual for specific instructions on how to remove the glass panel.<\/p>\n

Does a gas fireplace require extensive wall reconstruction to install? <\/b><\/strong><\/h3>\n

This will depend on the existing construction of your home as well as the type of gas fireplace<\/strong> you plan to install.<\/p>\n

Only a pro will be able to determine how much reconstruction will be required.<\/p>\n

If you are converting a wood fireplace into a gas fireplace<\/strong>, very little retrofitting will be required.<\/p>\n

What are the different types of gas fireplaces? <\/b><\/strong><\/h3>\n