Converting a wood-burning fireplace to gas is not only possible but can also be surprisingly straightforward. By making this switch, you gain a fireplace that’s more efficient and far easier to use. Gas fireplaces provide cleaner burns, require less maintenance, and eliminate the need to purchase, store, and manage firewood. You also avoid dealing with ash cleanup, and with gas, you’ll have a cozy fire instantly at the press of a button.
There are two primary options for converting a wood-burning fireplace to gas: installing a gas fireplace insert or opting for a gas log set. Each approach has its own unique benefits and installation requirements. Here’s a closer look at the options to help you decide which is best for your home.
Gas Fireplace Inserts
Gas fireplace inserts are units that fit within the opening of your existing fireplace and typically include decorative surrounds to ensure a seamless, attractive finish. A key part of installing a gas insert is often lining your chimney with a stainless steel liner. These liners are round pipes that run up the length of your chimney, connecting directly to the gas insert, providing safe venting, and keeping harmful gasses out of your home. Fireplace inserts are designed to work with UL-listed stainless steel chimney liners, which promote safety and efficiency.
Direct Vent Gas Inserts
Direct Vent gas inserts are completely sealed units that have a specialized venting system. This system uses two pipes—one for bringing in outside air for combustion and the other for venting emissions outdoors. This design ensures that all combustion air comes from outside, so the indoor air quality remains unaffected, making it a safe choice for those with respiratory conditions like asthma. Additionally, Direct Vent inserts are known for their impressive flame displays, which mimic the look of a traditional wood fire.
Key Benefits of Direct Vent Inserts:
- Comply with modern Green Building standards.
- Maintain indoor air quality thanks to their sealed design.
- Produce full, realistic flames with a media bed that adds to the visual appeal.
- Many models include a heat blower to enhance heating efficiency.
Ventless Gas Inserts
Ventless gas inserts are ideal for homes without existing chimneys. Since they burn with nearly 100% efficiency, they don’t need an outside venting system. Ventless inserts use indoor air for combustion and release heat directly back into the room, maximizing warmth. You can purchase a Ventless insert alone and pair it with a separate log set, or choose a unit that comes with both the firebox and log set included.
One thing to note is that Ventless inserts produce smaller flames compared to Direct Vent models, due to the lack of an outside air supply to aid combustion. However, Ventless inserts excel at retaining heat indoors, since there’s no chimney to allow warmth to escape or bring in drafts. They can also help add moisture to your living space during the dry winter months.
Key Benefits of Ventless Inserts:
- Work efficiently without a chimney or venting system.
- Offer nearly 100% fuel efficiency, maximizing warmth.
- Prevent heat from escaping, ensuring your home stays warmer.
- Provide additional moisture to counteract dry winter air.
Gas Log Sets
Gas log sets offer a convenient and visually appealing way to transform a wood-burning fireplace into a gas-powered one. They come in a variety of styles to suit different décor preferences, such as rustic oak, bright birch, and eclectic juniper. Here’s an overview of the two main types of gas log sets available: vented and ventless, along with some key considerations around cost, safety, and maintenance.
Vented Gas Log Sets
Vented gas log sets require a chimney, and your fireplace damper must remain open during use. These sets are particularly popular due to their realistic flames that closely mimic those of a traditional wood fire. Many vented sets also include glowing ember beds, which further enhance the authenticity, providing a cozy ambiance similar to smoldering wood embers.
Since vented gas logs necessitate an open damper, some heat will escape through the chimney, meaning these sets are typically used for aesthetics rather than heating efficiency.
Key Benefits of Vented Gas Logs:
- Realistic flames that closely resemble wood fires.
- Authentic glowing ember beds that enhance visual appeal.
- Safe design that ensures indoor air quality isn’t compromised.
Ventless Gas Log Sets
Ventless gas log sets are ideal if you’re seeking supplemental heat, as they burn with nearly 100% efficiency and don’t require any venting. All the heat they produce stays inside your home, making them an effective source of warmth. Although ventless sets don’t have flames as large as vented ones, they are still quite lifelike and deliver a clean, smokeless burn.
Since ventless sets don’t need a chimney or venting, they can be installed in almost any room, provided you have an adequate gas supply.
Key Benefits of Ventless Gas Logs:
- Can be installed without a chimney or venting system.
- Burns with almost 100% efficiency, keeping all heat indoors.
- Provides supplemental heat while delivering a realistic fire experience.
Cost of Converting Your Fireplace
The cost to convert a wood-burning fireplace to gas can vary based on several factors, including the type of appliance chosen, necessary venting, gas plumbing, electrical work, and finishing materials. Generally, gas log sets are more affordable and simpler to install than gas inserts. Additionally, they tend to have fewer moving parts, potentially offering longer-lasting performance.
While both gas log sets and inserts will require periodic maintenance, annual service costs and warranties are typically similar between the two options.
Safety Considerations
When converting your fireplace, there are several important safety steps to keep in mind. For Direct Vent inserts or vented gas log sets, it’s essential to have a licensed chimney professional inspect and clean your chimney before installation. They can also make any necessary repairs to the masonry or structure to ensure it is safe for gas use.
If you don’t already have a natural gas line, consult with a licensed gas professional. They can install the correct size gas line to accommodate the BTU rating of your chosen gas insert or log set. A local gas professional will also be familiar with municipal codes and restrictions regarding gas appliances, so they can help you ensure compliance and suggest alternatives if needed.
It’s always wise to install carbon monoxide detectors throughout your home when using any gas appliance. Test the detectors regularly and replace the batteries at least once a year. Lastly, arrange for a professional inspection and maintenance of your gas appliance each year to keep it operating safely and efficiently. Scheduling your first service right after installation can help you remember to keep up with regular maintenance.
By following these guidelines and working with certified professionals, you can enjoy a beautiful, functional, and safe gas fireplace in your home.