Can You Use a Gas Fireplace During a Power Outage?

candle and phone in home during a power outage in the home where they can still use gas fireplace

Power outages can occur anytime, often due to adverse weather conditions. Then, once the lights are out and the living space has been plunged into darkness, heating becomes of utter importance, and the natural question would be whether the gas fireplace will work without grid power. Thankfully, most gas fireplaces are designed to provide warmth in these conditions, but with a few caveats. In this blog, we will discuss whether you can use a gas fireplace during a power outage and what precautions you should take.

To learn more about gas fireplace use and maintenance, contact our experts at New England Hearth & Home.

candle and phone in home during a power outage in the home where they can still use gas fireplace

How Gas Fireplaces Work

Generally, a gas fireplace will work with a standing pilot light set-up or an electronic ignition.

  • Standing Pilot Lights: These systems use millivolt ignition, which does not need outside power to ignite. This, in turn, means that during a blackout, the fireplace remains a source of heat as long as the pilot light is on.
  • Electric Ignition Systems: Electric power is needed to ignite the gas in these systems. Since it is an electronic fireplace, it cannot work without electricity except with a backup battery.

Using the Battery Backup

Certain gas fireplaces are fitted with a battery backup system. This particular feature enables the fireplace to ignite even without grid power. Nevertheless, it is crucial to verify the details for your specific model:

  • Standard battery backup: It would allow the ignition to work but would not allow features such as fans or accent lighting.
  • Maintenance: Regularly test the batteries to ensure they will work during an emergency. Extra batteries should be stored in a cool place, away from heat sources.

Safety Considerations

Usually, it is possible to use a gas fireplace quite safely during an outage, provided some precautions are taken. Let’s list some of them below;

  • Ventilation: Besides installations inside an already existing chimney, most direct vent fireplaces have been set out to be well-ventilated even when the fan is off. Thus, hazardous gas accumulation can be avoided.
  • Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Keep a working carbon monoxide detector in the same room as your fireplace. This should be done with much precaution, particularly for fires that burn for more extended periods without electrical ventilation.

Being Prepared for Power Outages

Planning will ensure that your gas fireplace works if an emergency occurs:

  • Emergency Kit: Get an emergency kit that should have things like matches or lighters, lights, extra batteries, some food, and water. These easily accessible things will enhance your comfort while you wait for grid power to be restored. 
  • Annual Maintenance: To function well, the gas fireplace needs periodic and scheduled servicing. Appointments for servicing, when at all possible, should be done during late summer or early fall well in advance of the winter heating season.

Yes, you can use a gas fireplace during an outage, but if it features a standing pilot light or even a battery backup system. A little foresight enables you to prepare your fireplace with all safety measurements in place, like carbon monoxide detectors.  You will be warm while the lights are out. Prepare yourself and your house for anything!

Learn More & Get a Free Quote for Gas Fireplace Services in Canton, Massachusetts, with New England Hearth & Home

At New England Hearth & Home, we provide a wide range of gas fireplace services in Canton, Massachusetts. Our team of professionals is dedicated to ensuring that your gas fireplace functions properly and safely throughout the winter season. We can also help you learn how to properly maintain and use your fireplace in all conditions, including power outages and emergencies. To learn more about our services and explore our gas models, contact us online, visit our showroom, or call us at 781-562-0771!

Top 3 Benefits Of Real Fyre Gas Fireplace Accessories

remote for gas fireplace in home with controlling like real fyre products to bring top benefits to homeowners

Real Fyre is a leader in creating accessories for gas fireplaces. From log sets to burners, Real Fyre offers a wide range of high-quality products that can enhance the appearance and functionality of any gas fireplace. Not only are their accessories aesthetically pleasing, but they also provide numerous benefits for homeowners. Their log sets can create a realistic and cozy atmosphere, while their burners provide efficient heat distribution. In addition to these benefits, their products also reduce maintenance and increase safety. In this blog, we will discuss the top three reasons to consider investing in Real Fyre gas fireplace accessories and how New England Hearth & Home can help with our range of Real Fyre products in Canton, Massachusetts.

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What Are Gas Fireplace Accessories?

Gas fireplaces are becoming increasingly popular due to their convenience and ease of use. Unlike traditional wood-burning fireplaces, gas fireplaces require minimal maintenance and do not produce ashes or soot. While they can be used on their own, some of the most popular gas fireplaces are:

  • Log Sets: These realistic-looking log sets are designed to mimic the appearance of real wood logs. They come in various sizes and styles, making them suitable for any gas fireplace.
  • Burners: Gas fireplace burners are responsible for distributing heat evenly throughout the room. They come in different shapes and sizes, including single-sided, double-sided, or three-sided burners.
  • Remote Controllers: Remotes can be used to turn on, shut off, and adjust the heat and flame settings of a gas fireplace. They provide added convenience and can be used from a distance.
  • Gems, Nuggets, & Glass: These decorative elements enhance the appearance of a gas fireplace by adding pops of color and texture. They can be placed on top of or around the burner to create a unique look.

Top Three Reasons to Invest in Real Fyre Gas Fireplace Accessories

As mentioned above, gas fireplace accessories can enhance your gas fireplace’s overall appearance and functionality. Real Fyre is a trusted brand that offers high-quality and innovative gas fireplace accessories. Here are the top three reasons to consider investing in Real Fyre products:

realfyre ecard promotion for gas log sets and accessories

Energy Efficiency & Lower Utility Costs

While gas fireplaces are already an energy-efficient option, adding Real Fyre gas fireplace accessories can further improve their efficiency. Burners can be adjusted to distribute heat evenly, reducing the need for additional heating sources. This can lead to lower utility costs and help you save money in the long run.

Customization & Personalization

With a variety of log sets, burners, and decorative pieces available, Real Fyre gas fireplace accessories offer a wide range of customization options. You can create a unique and personalized look for your fireplace, making it the focal point of your room.

Convenience & Comfort

Real Fyre remote controllers provide added convenience and comfort by allowing you to control your fireplace with ease from a distance. This means you can adjust the heat and flame settings without having to get up from your comfortable spot on the couch or bed.

Buy Real Fyre Gas Fireplace Log Sets, Burners, & Accessories in Canton, Massachusetts, with New England Hearth & Home

At New England Hearth & Home in Canton, Massachusetts, we pride ourselves on offering high-quality and innovative gas fireplace accessories from top brands like Real Fyre. Our knowledgeable staff can help you find the perfect products to enhance your gas fireplace. From log sets to burners and decor features, we have everything you need to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere in your home. To learn more, visit our showroom, contact us online, or call us at 781-562-0771!

Converting a Wood Fireplace to Gas

gas fireplace

Having a wood fireplace is great, but many homeowners are making the switch to gas. Wood fireplaces require a fair amount of upkeep, and you will spend a lot of money on wood. Lucky for you, making the switch to gas will not require you to get a whole new fireplace. Here are the benefits of switching to gas in your fireplace:

Cleaner Air and Home

Soot tends to get everywhere when you light a fire in your wood fireplace. If you don’t have proper ventilation, soot can get on walls and objects to create a sticky grease. Wood fireplaces also tend to release toxins into the air as well as pollutants. These include benzene, formaldehyde, and carbon monoxide. When you switch to a gas fireplace, you won’t have to worry about soot or debris, so your air will be a lot cleaner.

Energy Efficiency

Gas fireplaces are more environmentally conscious. They are created to mimic a wood fireplace but are manufactured with energy-efficient materials and technology. You will get a lot more energy from the fuel as heat, about 75 – 98%. Wood fireplaces do not get more than 30%. This is way better than wood fireplaces, which run at around 30 percent efficiency because they waste about two-thirds of their heat up the chimney.

Safety

When you have a fireplace in your home, there is always a risk for danger. When you have a gas fireplace installed by our professionals, you’ll find it to be a lot safer than a wood fireplace. Gas fireplaces have a system for safety shutoff, which can prevent gas leaks. When the fireplace is on and in use, the gas levels stay stable so that the flames do not get too big. Wood fireplaces are more prone to accidents, but it is still essential to make sure gas fireplaces are properly vented.

Easy to Use

Gas fireplaces are way easier to use than wood. Gas can be started with the touch of a button, rather than having to light logs and keep the flame going. If you are looking for a simple fireplace option, converting to gas is the way to go! Although gas still requires some work from time to time, try to make the switch. 

Contact New England Hearth & Home

The fireplace experts at New England Hearth & Home are here to help you choose the best fireplace options for your home. We can help convert your existing wood fireplace to gas! Contact us to learn more about our services and repairs. Call us today or send us a message through our contact form to get in touch with our experts.

Fireplace Trends We Will See in 2021

trendy fireplace

With every new year comes new trends! Fireplaces are included in that. Being able to change so many aspects of your fireplace and mantle, updating and staying trendy is easy. Here are some fireplace trends we will see in the months to come:

Emphasizing Your Fireplace Mantel

Using your fireplace mantel as a stylish piece of décor will be trendy this year. With many people doing away with even having a mantel, bringing it back in style will add a new element to anyone’s space. Modern, rustic, and Mediterranean types of mantels are said to what’s in style for 2021. These styles are versatile and easily made to be fitting for any living room or space in your home!

Natural-Textured Fireplaces

While the modern look was all the rage the past couple of years, many homeowners might be opting for a more natural and subtle look for their fireplaces in 2021. Modern materials are used to create these natural-looking fireplaces, though. Some materials you may see include concrete, Glass, metal, plaster, and wood. Concrete is a great option for those looking for a minimalist look, Glass is great for a transparent option, and metal is perfect for homeowners who want an industrial feel.

Tiled Fireplaces

Tiles are a reliable and trendy option to put on your fireplace. There are so many styles to choose from to fit your home’s decor and color scheme. There is pebbled tile, ceramic tile, glass mosaic tile, marble tile, and patterned tile. Pebbled tile is an eco-friendly option that might be one of the most popular materials for tiles. Ceramic is a classic material that will still have your fireplace looking trendy and chic. Glass can provide a modern touch along with a luxurious look!

TV Over Your Fireplace

More and more homeowners are caving in and placing their TV over their fireplace. Many people have had either mirrors or pictures above their mantel, but with the changing times and living rooms becoming a more casual space, TVs are making their way up there. The TV’s flatness mixed with something like a gas or electric fireplace provides a chic look to any home.

Contact New England Hearth & Home

Whichever fireplace trends you want to take part in this year, New England Hearth & Home can help! With years of experience in the fireplace industry, our experts are ready to tackle your project. New England Hearth & Home is here to help you stay up-to-date with fireplace trends. Contact us to learn more about our fireplace services and products. Call us today to learn more or fill out our contact form to reach our fireplace experts!