So you’ve decided that you are ready to install a new heating appliance in your home. Installing a new fireplace, stove, insert is exciting, but which one is best for you. With so many design, fuel, and appliance options available, it may be  a little overwhelming. At Northeastern Fireplace & Design, we have a wide selection of hearth appliances. We know how intimidating it can be. However, we would like to help you narrow down your choices by comparing gas and wood-burning appliances. Both of these choices are great, but depending on the person, there are pros and cons to each type of fuel.

Gas Appliances

a wood burning stove Gas appliances run on natural gas or propane that is piped into your home. Because gas lines are relatively easy to tap into in your home, this gives you a lot of options in regards to placement. One of the main reasons people like gas fireplaces is because they are easy to use and maintain. Gas appliances is turned on with a flip of a switch. Since natural gas is clean burning, there is generally less clean up compared to other fuel sources. This also means that there is less chance that your chimney need to be swept during your annual chimney inspection. One of the main drawbacks of gas fireplaces is that it can’t replicate the look and feel of a wood fire. Although you can use special burners and ceramic logs to imitate a wood fire, the ambiance of a wood-burning fireplace creates is not the same

Wood Appliances

Wood appliances run on fuel that you can buy or collect yourself and store near your home. They offer an ambiance that can’t be beat. Some people desire the natural glow and crackling of a real wood fire. Wood appliances also give your home a warm, rustic feel that can’t be imitated as easily with a gas appliance. They are also cheaper to operate, depending on your home’s location. If you leave near a cheap source of timber, or you are willing to cut and season your own firewood, there can be some energy cost savings for  you.

However, there are a few drawbacks to having a wood appliance. It can be a lot of work chopping and stacking wood, hauling it into your home, starting a fire and keeping it going. Some people enjoy the work involved with creating a fire, while some people simply do not have the time or energy to do all the work. Wood appliances also leave ash that needs to be cleaned out periodically. They create a lot of creosote, meaning they will have to be professionally swept more often than a gas appliance.

Whether you prefer wood or gas, we have the appliances you need. Come see us today and let one of our fireplace specialists help you determine what type of appliance best fits your needs.