Understanding Gas Appliances

 

     We’d like to thank you for taking the time for stopping in and seeing the best products available on the market today.  One of the most important decisions will be in choosing which of the four types of gas appliances is best for your home.  To help you in that decision, we have assembled this fact sheet to better assist you in your choice.  All types of gas appliances can use either propane or natural gas.  Like any gas unit, safe and professional installation using proper federal code is required.  We at Fireplaces 'N' Fixins', have full-time, certified employees trained in the installation and service of gas appliances.  We can help you if you are planning your own installation, or give you a quote if you would like us to do the installation.

     Most of the appliances that will be discussed are on display in our store.  This allows you to see what they look like and how they heat.  Following are the different options to help you in making the best choice for your home.

 

Ventless Heaters

      Ventless logs and heaters can be a good choice for several reasons.  They are usually the least expensive to purchase and install, requiring no vent and produce the most heat.  They can be installed in an existing fireplace, purchased freestanding or have built-in fireboxes with mantles, which creates an instant fireplace.  They all have oxygen depletion sensors that shut the unit off in case it consumes too much oxygen.  The logs are 99% efficient and produce between 10,000 and 40,000 BTU’S per hour.  It is important to note that the heat loss of an entire 1500 sq. ft. home is less than 40,000 BTU’S  per hour at a temperature of 5 below zero. 

      Ventless logs require fresh air be provided in tight homes, usually by opening a window.  Raw gas contains mercaptain and other odorizing agents that create varying amounts of fumes, being more noticable in small, tight spaces.  About 1 in 10 people will complain of headaches and fume sensitivity.

     Ventless logs produce about one quart of water (humidity) for every 10,000 BTU’S and may cause mold, mildew or water damage in cold areas with a lot of glass.  The logs make such a great amount of heat with such little flame that they reduce indoor air quality.  Due to this factor, they are discouraged for use in tight or new construction, and are banned in many northern states and Canada in new homes.

     The ventless log flame is the poorest of all logs.  The logs must burn clean, and therefore are only slightly modified from a gas oven burner.  Some users complain of dirty or sooty walls if the stove is used frequently. 

     Like a compact car that is great for gas mileage, but not for a large family, these units make great heaters, but not always the best fireplace.  Ventless logs are also not recommended where “looks” or flame qualilty is desired, and they are poor partners for tight, well-insulated structures.

 

Fully Vented Logs

 

     At the other end of the spectrum is the fully vented gas log, which is used in an existing wood burning fireplace.  Simply stated, they look great, but provide minimal heat.  Much like a bright wood fire, most of the heat goes up the chimney.  Their efficiency is less than 15%, but the glow and flame brightness is as good as a real wood fire. 

     This is the recommended log where looks and atmosphere are desired, and heat is secondary.  Both ventless and fully vented fireplaces are severely restricted by state or national codes in the northern tier states and Canada .

 

“B” Vented Logs or Fireplaces

 

     “B” vented fireplaces and freestanding stoves, are gas dedicated appliances that can use the same inexpensive vent as a gas furnace or hot water tank.  Called a “natural vent”, they are an inexpensive alternative to the fully vented fireplace, while providing the air quality advantages of a vent.  This fireplace is often used on interior walls, where a vent can go up and out through the roof.  They are also used when replacing a wood stove or utilizing an existing chimney.  The efficiency is in the 65% range and the flame quality is good on these appliances.   Please talk to one of our salesman about the best applications for this unit.

 

Direct Vented Fireplaces

 

     Direct vented fireplaces, stoves and inserts, use a vent that goes directly to the outside wall or roof of the home, then terminates.  The unique double wall vent system provides the fresh air needed for combustion.  It also puts the fumes and moisture outside, in what is called a balanced system.  This appliance is completely sealed from the room air, creating a respectful 75% efficiency.  They also produce from 15,000 to 35,000 BTU’s per hour-enough to heat up to 1200 sq ft. !!!!  The flame quality is excellent, and the problems and shortcomings of the previous three types of appliances are eliminated.

     This is the only gas appliance approved in all states and Canada by state and local building codes, and is the appliance of choice for most applications.

 

 

 

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