Are you interested in converting? No, we’re not wading into the controversial territories of religion or politics. Are you in interested in converting from a wood-burning to a gas-fueled fireplace? We can help. Let’s have that discussion. We won’t be evangelists or advocates for one choice or another, but Northeastern Fireplace & Design knows the pluses and minuses of each. Get your questions ready for us.
What about the pluses of using natural gas or propane for your fireplace? For one, you get to use of a clean-burning fuel, which enhances environmental stewardship. As a cleaner burning alternative, natural gas offers the benefits of reduced emissions and less particulate matter than burning firewood. Add the convenience and neatness of not having to season, stack, and load firewood into the fireplace. You also don’t need to clean up and dispose of ashes from burnt wood. A gas fireplace is also easy to use: turn it on with the flick of a switch and regulate the temperature yourself. Another significant upside is the heating efficiency of natural gas or propane.
What about the downside?
You won’t have the literal authenticity of a wood-burning fireplace. A gas fireplace offers extremely realistic simulation, but if you are a stickler for the real thing, what can we say? The smell and sound of burning wood will be lacking, even if the approximation is like Hollywood special effects.
As for cost and long-term investment, a gas fireplace provides solid value. We help customers calculate cost and benefit comparisons. Since some people have their own firewood on their property, that lowers the cost. Each situation differs.
Another important consideration is aesthetics and décor. That’s a hard call, because these days both wood-burning and gas fireplaces come in stylish varieties and designs to suit nearly any taste. Let’s call that aspect a toss-up. There are many appealing choices to choose from.
It is also advisable to have your flue size checked to make certain that your system can properly accommodate your choice of fuel. Northeastern Fireplace & Design can readily do that.
What sorts of gas fireplaces are available from Northeastern Fireplace & Design?
We carry high-quality, nationally recognized brand names. They include Envirofire, Mendota, Valor and other top brands.
Gas fireplaces are relatively easy to install, and they afford a variety of choices in how and where they can be situated. Naturally, we suggest you rely on our certified professionals to install your gas fireplace.
As for safety, wood-burning and gas fireplaces both require care and maintenance. Fireplace and stove glass safety are two areas of fire-safety concern. As recommended by the Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association, or HPBA, free-standing or attached safety screens or gates provide a barrier making it harder for anyone, adult or child, to accidentally touch a hot surface.
Over the course of decades, we have had thousands of satisfied customers throughout the Capital District, western Massachusetts, eastern New York and beyond. We have 35+ years of superior service throughout the region. Contact us directly to learn more. Call us today at (518) 767-9314.
Do you want to convert? We won’t pressure you. We’ll start by listening.