Smartbuyersguide

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SMARTBUYERSGUIDE CONTENTS A Guide to Choosing The Right Fireplace for Your Home Natural Gas Burning Fireplace Products Gas Fireplaces Gas Logs Gas Fireplace Inserts Gas Stoves Costs, Operating Costs, Care & Maintenance Wood Burning Fireplace Products Wood Burning Fireplaces Wood Burning Inserts Wood Burning Stoves Costs, Operating Costs, Care & Maintenance Electric Fireplace Products Costs, Operating Costs, Care & Maintenance Designed by IncSpotCreative.com 1 GAS PRODUCTS Natural Gas Fireplace Products Provide the rich, warm flames and comfort of traditional fireplaces but with distinct advantages SMARTBUYER’SGUIDE Homebuyers consistently rate fireplaces as a “must have” in consumer preference surveys. However, many homeowners do not often use their wood-burning fireplaces, because it can be time-consuming and messy to collect wood, build a fire, tend it, cool it down and clean up the ashes. It is no surprise that gas hearth product shipments zoomed up 600 percent between 1992-2000, while sales of traditional cordwood appliances rose only 11 percent during the same time period, according to the Hearth, Patio and Barbecue Association. than wood fireplaces. This means no ash build-up, no creosote in chimneys and no sparks or flying embers that could burn holes in carpets or furniture. Natural gas hearth products are so clean, in fact, that they can be used anytime in areas of the country that have “no burn” regulations for wood fireplaces and stoves in an effort to reduce air pollution. Families who already have a masonry fireplace and a chimney in good shape can easily add a gas log set or gas insert. And new manufactured gas fireplaces can be installed without a conventional chimney – making some gas hearth products appropriate even for high-rise apartments. Natural gas fireplaces, stoves, fireplace inserts and gas log sets burn more cleanly Gas Fireplace Clean Face Revolution by Fireplace X Designed by IncSpotCreative.com 2 GAS PRODUCTS Gas Fireplaces SMARTBUYER’SGUIDE Gas fireplaces are factory built, prefabricated units that contain a gas fire within a prefabricated metal firebox. They come in a variety of sizes and styles, including see-through, three-sided, linear and traditional fireplace configurations. The size of the firebox, the interior where the fire burns, typically varies from 32 to 45 inches in width. The fireplace can be placed along inside or outside walls, under windows, as a peninsula between rooms, in bookcases and media centers or in corners. These units can be vented up through the roof or through a side wall, or can be unvented. Some models use a fan or blower to circulate warm air from the fire into the room. Because no masonry work is needed, natural gas fireplaces are economical to install. with some radiant heat for the room. Some of these fireplaces can be equipped with blower assemblies that increase the amount of supplemental heat. Some types of fireplaces are classified as vented space heaters and are given efficiency ratings like furnaces and other types of vented space heaters. The efficiency rating is called its Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency or AFUE. The AFUE for a fireplace takes into consideration the energy used while the fireplace is operating, any energy lost in start-up and shut down, and any fuel used in a standing pilot light. All gas fireplaces feature realistic gas logs with burning flames, and most can be used as supplemental heat. Gas fireplaces that are classified as “decorative” appliances are designed primarily for their appearance From left to right: Gas Fireplace HZ42 by Regency Gas Fireplace Greenbriar by Mendota Designed by IncSpotCreative.com 3 GAS PRODUCTS Gas Logs SMARTBUYER’SGUIDE Gas logs are available for existing wood burning fireplaces. They are constructed of ceramic fiber or concrete with a gas burner underneath. They are available in a variety of designs crafted to resemble real wood. The gas burner assembly creates a pleasant effect that suggests lively glowing embers. There are two types of fireplace log sets: • Vent-free log heaters can contribute to heating a room, and can be used with the fireplace damper closed. A sensor in the unit monitors the percentage of oxygen in the room and automatically shuts the log set off if the level drops beneath its set point. Local building codes vary on installation of these units. • Vented decorative gas fireplace log sets require leaving the fireplace damper open during operation. These sets are used primarily for ambience, since only about 10 percent of the log appliance’s heat is retained in the room. Building codes require that the fireplace damper (the metal flap at the top of the firebox, leading to the chimney) be opened permanently with vented gas logs. As a result, glass doors are recommended for the firebox opening in order to hold heat in the room when the fireplace is not in use. From left to right: Gas Logs by Peterson Flambeau by FireGear Designed by IncSpotCreative.com 4 SMARTBUYER’SGUIDE GAS PRODUCTS Gas Fireplace Inserts & Stoves Gas Fireplace Inserts Gas Fireplace Stoves Another option for an existing fireplace is a gas fireplace insert. These units can upgrade an inefficient wood fireplace into a high efficiency zone heater for your home. They are an excellent source of heat during a power outage. Gas stoves are good substitutes for more polluting wood-burning stoves. These units are freestanding, come in traditional and contemporary styles, and are available in vented and vent-free models. The stoves offer realistic flames, good heating capacity, high efficiency and an attractive appearance. An insert is composed of a set of gas logs built into a steel or cast iron box, usually with a fan and heat exchange to move heat into the room. Inserts can fit into almost any existing fireplace and come in a wide variety of styles and sizes. Vented decorative models come in an airtight metal cabinet with sealed glass door. They require chimney liners to ensure proper venting. Units can be controlled by a switch, remote control or thermostat. The heat output of gas stoves can be adjusted by turning the burner up or down, by linking the unit to a thermostat or by using a remote control. Theses stoves work during power outages and will provide excellent zone heating. From left to right: Gas Fireplace Insert Horizon Series by Regency Gas Fireplace Stove Greenfield by Lopi Designed by IncSpotCreative.com 5 GAS PRODUCTS SMARTBUYER’SGUIDE Additional Facts to Consider When choosing a direct vent gas product– Direct vent products are available in gas only. They are the perfect solution for homes that don’t have an existing chimney. They always have a sealed glass front and provide reliable heat. Direct vent products offer the opportunity to place a fireplace in just about any room – provided venting can be run to an outside wall or through the roof (maximum venting distances apply).  Venting terminations will appear on the outside wall or roof, so this is an aesthetic consideration for your home’s exterior. Visit our showroom to select the right product, cabinet and accessories for your décor and heating requirements. When choosing a B vent / natural vent gas product – B vent products are available in gas only and are similar to a direct vent products in that they are installed when an existing chimney is not available. The difference is that a B vent draws combustion air from inside the home and has an open front. They are decorative products. When choosing a gas stove product – Freestanding gas stoves add an air of stylish tradition to any room. They are available in direct vent or B vent models. Crafted from durable stainless steel or cast iron and available in both leg and pedestal base styles, those stoves offer multiple venting options and can go virtually anywhere in your house. To find the perfect stove for your home, visit our showroom to select the right product for your home. When choosing a gas log set – Gas log sets fit easily inside an existing wood fireplace – masonry or manufactured steel firebox - and provide an alternative to wood burning fires without a lot of modification to your existing fireplace. Gas logs DO NOT require the installation of liners in side the chimney ! Perfect for when less heat and less mess are needed, gas log sets are available in many sizes and come with a grate, lava rocks and glowing embers. You should visit our showroom to select the gas log set that best fits your fireplace and arrange for installation if needed. When choosing a vent free gas product – Vent free products are available in gas only. Offered in both stove and fireplaces styles, and with no venting required, they can be installed just about anywhere (except in bedrooms or bathrooms). Stylish and efficient, vent free products add heat and ambience with little hassle or expense. Please visit our showroom to talk to our staff to determine if a vent free product is right for you. (Vent free products are not available in Canada and some US states.) Designed by IncSpotCreative.com 6 GAS PRODUCTS Costs, Care & Maintenance Cost SMARTBUYER’SGUIDE Gas fireplaces range from $ 1500 - $ 3500 depending on manufacturer, size, style and accessories. Gas inserts and gas stoves start at $ 2000. Additional costs for the gas line installation, venting, and electrical line need to be factored in as well. To ensure a safe and reliable installation we have certified, professional installers on staff. We obtain permits for all our work. Therefore you can be assured that your installation will meet all local and state codes. Operating Costs Gas fireplaces are generally cheaper to operate and more efficient than wood burning fireplaces. There are many variables in determining the actual costs, such as location of your home, how air tight the house is, the room layout and the cost of gas in your area. Liquid propane gas contains 2,500 BTU's per cubic foot, natural gas contains 1000 BTU's per cubic foot. Care & Maintenance Gas fireplaces are clean burning and require little maintenance. We recommend an annual inspection by one of our certified technicians who can inspect the burner, fan, venting, pilot light and thermostat and even clean the glass. Alternately, check with your owner's manual for instructions for cleaning glass doors. Typical glass cleaners are not as effective as products specifically made to clean the stains on the inside of gas fireplace doors. Gas Fireplace See Thru Fireplace by Town & Country Designed by IncSpotCreative.com 7 GAS PRODUCTS Costs, Care & Maintenance In Summary gas fireplaces are: Cleaner SMARTBUYER’SGUIDE • • Clean and environmentally friendly. Compared to old-fashioned wood burners, natural gas fireplaces have lower outputs of: ◦ Carbon monoxide. ◦ Toxic pollutants. ◦ Harmful particulate Safer • • • Avoid creosote buildup No chimney cleaning Free from sparks or long-burning embers Convenient • • • No wood storage space needed Get rid of messy ashes Eliminate wood chips, bark and bugs Economical • • • • • • • • Up to 80% efficient Costs less than buying, hauling and burning wood Add value to your home Several types Fireplace gas inserts New gas fireplaces Direct-vented systems that use outside air for combustion and vent out the wall New top-vented or rear-vented freestanding stoves Gas Fireplace 8000 Modern by Heat n’ Glow Designed by IncSpotCreative.com 8 WOOD PRODUCTS Wood Burning Fireplace Products Wood burning Fireplaces SMARTBUYER’SGUIDE The traditional wood burning fireplace is used as an open appliance.  It can be accessorized with glass doors, andirons, screens, mantels, marble, etc.  The fire is beautiful and comforting, but unfortunately it is not an efficient source of heat because most of the heat if going up the chimney.  Wood burning fireplaces can be all masonry or factory built with metal chimneys.  Wood burning Inserts A wood burning fireplace insert is a convenient and affordable way to convert an existing masonry wood burning fireplace to a more efficient source of heat. Inserts fit into your existing fireplace opening and use the existing chimney. A stainless steel liner will be installed inside the chimney for better performance and safety. To determine the size you will need, measure the opening of your existing fireplace - (width x height x depth) and visit our showroom to select the right product for your home. Wood burning Stoves Airtight wood burning stoves are high efficiency products that can be installed freestanding in most rooms. They are vented into existing masonry chimneys through a thimble or are installed with Class A metal chimneys. Some are installed in front of an existing fireplace.  They are made of durable steel or cast iron and come in many sizes and colors to accommodate your heating and decorating needs.  From left to right: Wood Burning Fireplace Rutherford by Heat n’ Glow Wood Burning Insert Montpelier by Vermont Castings Wood Burning Sove Camano Isle by Avalon Designed by IncSpotCreative.com 9 WOOD PRODUCTS Costs, Care & Maintenance Cost SMARTBUYER’SGUIDE If you build a masonry fireplace your installation costs will be higher due to labor and the higher cost of stone or brick. Manufactured units are faster and easier to install. They range in price from $ 1200 - $ 3000. Labor costs for the venting and a possible electrical line need to be factored in as well To ensure a safe and reliable installation we have certified, professional installers on staff. fireplaces are clean burning and EPAcertified. They are more technologically advanced and offer a substantial amount of heat. These fireplaces are good choices in areas with frequent power outages, or where the cost of home heating is an issue. The average cost for a cord of wood is $ 200. Care & Maintenance We obtain permits for all our work. Therefore you can be assured that your installation will meet all local and state codes. Operating Costs Open wood burning fireplaces are 10% efficient or less. Airtight, high-efficiency In order to prevent creosote build up in your chimney, only burn harder, seasoned woods and keep monitoring your flue. We recommend that your fireplace and chimney be inspected and cleaned annually by a chimney sweep certified by the Chimney Safety Institute of America. Wood Burning Insert Elite Flush by Fireplace X Designed by IncSpotCreative.com 10 ELECTRIC PRODUCTS Electric Fireplace Products Electric fireplaces, logs and stoves that are excellent options for condo units, bedrooms, and small areas where you cannot run gas lines or chimneys. Operating Costs These appliances have flame patterns that are often mistaken for real flames, and most are available with heaters. Most units use approx. 1400 Watts. Costs will depend on your electric rate from your provider. SMARTBUYER’SGUIDE Care & Maintenance The fireplaces can be installed in a prefabricated mantel cabinet which makes for an easy installation. No mess, no gas lines needed! Virtually care free. Offers "fire" in the summer by turning off the heating element. Installation Costs An electric fireplace may require an electrical line to the unit. It may also require for baseboard to be cut out or carpet to be removed. The firebox can be installed in a prefabricated cabinet or framed wall. The perfect choice for a small office, apartment or where ever you cannot have a flue. From left to right: 21E Looking Glass by Lopi 21E Bungalow by Avalon Designed by IncSpotCreative.com 11