Menu
Although a wood-burning fireplace can bring warmth and coziness to your home, they are not always the best choice for everyone. These fireplaces require constant restocking of seasoned wood and cleaning out soot, and they can be unpredictable and difficult to start or maintain. If you’re looking for an upgrade, consider converting your wood-burning fireplace into a gas-operated hearth. In this blog, we will discuss this process and how to get your home ready for a gas appliance.
When choosing the best fireplace for your home, many homeowners quickly choose wood-burning models for their classic feel and cozy atmosphere. However, consider upgrading to a gas model if you’re looking for a more modern option and the convenience of controlling your appliance with a switch or remote.
Fireplaces that run on natural gas require less maintenance than a wood-burning option. With no need to restock the woodpile, you can enjoy consistent heat with minimal effort.
Gas fireplaces come with a switch or remote control for easy operation. This makes starting and adjusting the flame from anywhere in the room simple and convenient.
Due to their high efficiency, gas fireplaces offer a great way to save money on energy bills. Compared to wood-burning models, gas fireplaces are more efficient at producing heat. You can watch your bills drop by up to 20% by creating more heat with less energy.
When it comes to converting a wood-burning fireplace to gas, there are several steps to follow to ensure a seamless transition.
Start by inspecting your home for the necessary insulation and ventilation to support a gas-fueled appliance. Gas fireplaces require different venting than a wood-burning model, so it’s important to check ahead of time that your home can support the installation. When looking for the proper insulation, look for chimney liners that are specifically designed to draw cold air from outside the home into the flue.
Next, you need to assess the current gas supply in your home. If you already have an existing gas line, you can skip this step. However, if you’re converting your fireplace to a gas model for the first time, you need an expert to inspect your home’s current gas supply system. The best way to do this is to call your local natural gas company for a professional inspection.
Once your home is inspected and prepped for installation, the next step is to remove the old firebox. This process usually requires professional help since it involves disconnecting gas lines and breaking out walls. Depending on how extensive your remodel is, you may need additional help from a contractor to execute this task safely.
After removing the old firebox, you’re ready to attach all your gas components. Depending on the type of appliance you’ve chosen, these can include flexible connectors, valves, a thermostatic control unit, and more. To ensure proper installation, make sure to check all connections for leaks and read and follow the instructions carefully. It is also always recommended to call in a professional for this step, as anything that is set up incorrectly can lead to costly repairs in the future.
If you are currently in the market for a new gas fireplace to replace your old wood-burning model, contact New England Hearth & Home in Canton, MA. Until October 9, we are offering $200 off select Majestic gas fireplaces and inserts with our installation services. Whether you need help converting your wood-burning fireplace to a gas model or are just looking for a new and improved hearth, contact us today and take advantage of this offer! To learn more and start saving, call us at 781-562-0771 or visit our website!