A few fireplaces with natural venting come with sensors to stop the fire if exhaust fails and gases return to the flue. It can be a difficult and dangerous project and we strongly recommend you hire a professional instead. If you have a propane fireplace with 50,000 BTU rating, you will use about 1 gallon of propane per 2 hours it is in use. They produce less harmful exhaust as compared to wood-burning fireplaces so B-vent gas fireplaces are a more environmental-friendly option. An insert is also a cleaner option since there is no ash or soot to clean out of the fireplace. These commissions help to keep the rest of my content free, so thank you! With all this, you can tell that gas burning is very fuel effective during burn time. Maintenance is at a minimum for a gas fireplace insert since there are no ashes clean out of the fireplace. On average, the distance between the The glass panel in front of the gas fireplace makes it safe by preventing access to the fire. Though they can be expensive upfront, gas fireplace inserts are certainly a long-term money saving investment. With an average cost of around $700, electric fireplaces are affordable and can add ambiance to your home. Best Direct-Vent Gas Fireplace: Empire Tahoe Deluxe Millivolt Fireplace. "A direct-vent fireplace which runs on natural gas and boasts of realistic ceramic fiber logs." Best Compact Gas Fireplace: Pleasant Hearth VFS2-PH20DT. "A dual-fueled freestanding unit that is great for small and middle-sized areas." Katie Flannery, 11 Ways to Make the Most of Your Towns Curbside Cleanup Day, Considering a Ventless Gas Fireplace? They are installed in sections that are from 4 up to 48 in length and are paired with angled elbows of 90 degrees or 45 degrees for ease in placement. How Much Does Wood Stove Installation Cost? Propane gas is a beneficial source of fuels that, without any doubt, will help you a great deal, but if not used well, it might turn out to be costly. The cost to install a fireplace insert depends on your home layout, current fireplace setup, and your fireplace insert preferences. Depending on popularity you can see that mostly direct vent gas fireplaces are the first choice for most homeowners. Minimal maintenance required: All you need is to keep it clean (similar to cleaning an oven) and do an annual checkup, which might cost $50 to $150. Deciding on a gas fireplace insert while staying within your budget can be a daunting process. Power venting. When you decide to purchase a gas fireplace, one of the first things you need to figure out is how to vent it safely. Find trusted local pros for any home project. See real-world installations from Regency customers, Learn more about products and see them burning, View latest brochures highlighting our product lines, Join the conversation on social & see how much people love their Regencys, Get Started - Not sure what you need? At 18 he ran away and saw the world with a backpack and a credit card, discovering that the true value of any point or mile is the experience it facilitates. While the principle of a ventless gas fireplace operates much like that of operating a gas stove, the safety of gas fireplace inserts is still an open debate. Here's What You Need to Know. Some inserts cost more than others, such as wood-burning or gas inserts. Per Homeadvisor.com, there are currently 34 U.S. states that allow for the sale of vent-free gas fireplace heaters, while 16 prohibit their sale. As a result, your fireplace insert will seal a major hole in your home keeping you warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer. Modern gas fireplaces will, and should, always meet or exceed EPA clean burn standards. You can simply turn off the gas source to your fireplace if you dont want to remove the entire thing. Poor Quality of the Bulb If youre more interested in looks, an electric fireplace is more about imagery than producing actual flames or heat for a room. Fire Characteristics: Gas fires are consistent and controllable by design. A fireplace insert is a sealed box that is placed (inserted) into an existing masonry fireplace. Do you need ventilation for a gas fireplace? Shades vs. Blinds, How To Install Smoke Detectors In Your Home, How To Find The Best Carpet Cleaning Service. Several factors impact gas fireplace insert costs. Venting through the wall doesnt require extensive work, saving time and installation costs. The average gas fireplace installation cost is about $500. On average, standard 24-inch built-in dishwashers weigh 77 pounds (35 kg), compact 18-inch built-in dishwashers weigh 60 pounds (27 kg), portable dishwashers weigh 108 pounds (49 kg), Here are some frequently asked questions about gas fireplace insert cost to help guide you in your decisions. For some models, no venting is required meaning you do not need a chimney or fluemaking them relatively hassle-free. Regencys line of wood burning inserts are 2020 compliant and includes cast iron, steel, hybrid catalytic and non-catalytic units; a fireplace insert for every type of wood burner! Jul 3, 2015. As a result, the old inefficient wood fireplace is upgraded to a new high-efficiency wood, gas, or propane fireplace that will produce more heat and use less fuel. On the other hand, improper venting will result in unattractive flames that are smaller and bluish. This will allow your system to produce the anticipated heat within a specific period. The weather is another factor that will influence the amount of fuel you can use. The search terms entered did not return valid results. A fireplace insert gets installed directly inside of an existing masonry chimney. Napoleon Grandville VF Series Vent Free Natural Gas Fireplace. You also need to use a flue damper in the chimney-like structure of the vent so cold air cannot enter the house via any open gaps in the vent. Since they can only be installed in an existing fireplace, a gas fireplace insert is a good choice for houses with an existing open hearth, chimney and flue. The final costs are dependent on several factors, including the size, condition and Some areas of the country require a permit when installing a gas fireplace insert and adding or extending gas lines. People opt to install inserts because traditional fireplaces can lose a lot of heat, require more maintenance, and may impact indoor air quality. Venting your gas Labor costs are considerably less to install a gas insert than to install a gas-burning fireplace. What Is The Brown Wire On Thermostat For? Chimney-free: Electric and ventless gas inserts are energy efficient and don't require a chimney. Vented inserts generally have a realistic fireplace aesthetic because the temperature is controlled. In addition, for every 1/8 inch that a trim or molding piece on your mantel juts out, another 1 inch of clearance is needed. In the US, homeowners use approximately $42 on propane every month, but it helps cut their electricity bills. How can I make my gas fireplace vent more efficient? Thanks to the increased energy efficiency, a gas fireplace insert will almost always save money on heating costs, particularly when taking the place of a wood-burning fireplace or expanding heating-area coverage. After all, each style has its benefits and drawbacks depending on the location where you want to install the fireplace. However, look at all the possibilities, weigh the pros and cons of both models and then pick which one ticks more boxes for you. A professional will have the experience and knowledge base to install the gas insert correctly and safely. Some of the most common materials are brick, tile, and stone, which can create a modern, rustic, or eclectic appearance in the room. Photo: chandlerphoto / iStock / Getty Images. Since any repairs are likely to involve your homes gas lines (whether directly or peripherally) we recommend you call a service professional if you are at all unsure or inexperienced with gas and gas line installation. Also, they are more responsive to indoor airflow despite being cheaper. Benefits of Installing a Gas Fireplace Insert, Curtains vs. Drapes vs. {{ tocState.toggleTocShowMore ? Note: The dimensions mentioned above are to be used as a guide for research and basic sizing purposes. Please note, however, that these types of fireplaces are commonly considered gas fireplaces, not gas fireplace inserts, since they should not be inserted into an existing hearth. It is also advised to contact your gas-providing company to ensure that you are doing everything right. Fireplace inserts come in four different types: wood-burning, gas, electric, and pellet. Modern propane fireplace inserts have efficiencies of roughly 80 percent. Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made. Natural gaspowered fireplaces are more cost-effective to run than a propane-powered one, depending on geographic location and fuel costs in your area. These flues are fitted into each other using a common axis. To help support our reporting work, and to continue our ability to provide this content for free to our readers, we receive compensation from the companies that advertise on the Forbes Home site. A gas fireplace insert provides the warm glow that many homeowners desire without the inconvenience and expense of burning wood. How much does a gas lamp post cost per year? Yes, you can add a fireplace to an existing home. They exhaust all the gases and water vapor produced from burning gas and vent it to the outside. Ceiling fan wire Unlike electric fireplaces, they can often still be used when the power goes out. The high-temperature glass panel of the fireplace is completely sealed off to keep combustible byproducts and flames from entering the homes clean breathing air. Heres what to know to help you choose between the different types of fireplace inserts. Plus, most models come with sensors to automatically turn off the fireplace if carbon monoxide is detected. How Much Does Ethernet Installation Cost? While it is possible to install a gas fireplace insert yourself when well-equipped, it will still cost you around $500 or more for supplies. Gas fireplaces also create an updraft while operating that can suck the warm air out of your home, affecting the efficiency of the fireplace. This is an excellent option for homeowners who want to rework their existing wood-burning fireplace into a fuel-efficient heat source. Fireplace inserts have different installation protocols depending on the type. A gas fire means you still have heat even if your electricity goes out and it erases the need for finding or purchasing firewood completely. Gas fireplace insert vents refer to the types of gas logs used for your insert. The best inserts have efficiency ratings reaching 99% while even the lowest will rate around 65%significantly more than an open hearth or wood-burning fireplace. This means its possible for your fireplace insert to last quite a long timeespecially if you conduct regular maintenance and treat it well. Compare Quotes From Top-rated Fireplace Installers. The Langley 36 Direct Vent Linear Gas Fireplace. B Vent and Direct Vent gas fireplaces both are attractive, efficient, and cost-effective ways to heat your home. Inserts are a great way to produce more heat and reuse a pre-existing fireplace. All Rights Reserved. You can also control the temperature and flame height. You can choose the perfect model to match your home or a room in your home. One of the benefits to a gas fireplace is the ability to purchase an unvented modelthat is, a model that does not require an existing chimney or flue. THIS IS AN ADVERTISEMENT AND NOT EDITORIAL CONTENT. While you may pay more money upfront for installation, a gas fireplace insert can help save money on heating costs, especially when taking the place of a wood-burning fireplace or expanding heating-area coverage. There is no building a fire and waiting for the fire to build to heat a room. Here are some questions to ask a gas fireplace insert installation professional. A propane gas fireplace insert uses approximately 1 gallon of propane per 100,000 BTUs (British thermal unit). Since installing a gas fireplace insert involves working with gas lines, electrical wiring, vent pipes, and potentially the roof, hiring a professional is recommended. In the US, homeowners with propane fireplaces spend approximately $42 on propane every month (. Beside this, how much does a gas fireplace insert weigh? They do not require a chimney system, so any gases are released into your home. Chances are that Regency has the perfect wood or gas fireplace insert to fit your existing masonry fireplace. Since gas fireplace inserts are made to fit into a pre-existing, wood-burning fireplace space, there is theoretically no need for any extensive remodelwhich saves both time and money. The material you use around the fireplace can add to or detract from the rooms overall character. Direct-vent fireplaces provide a safe option for venting if you dont have a chimney in your house. Technology has changed everything, and thanks to it, propane fireplaces have been modernized; thus, you can easily tell how much heat a fireplace produces because now you can use British Thermal Units (BTUs). Gas fireplaces and gas fireplace inserts seem one and the same: both run on gas, are highly efficient and easy to maintain and, importantly, both heat your home. Installing an insert is a great way to minimize maintenance and use an existing fireplace system and masonry. If you would like to change your settings or withdraw consent at any time, the link to do so is in our privacy policy accessible from our home page.. Please note that we do receive compensation for any products you buy or sign up to via this advertisement, and that compensation impacts the ranking and placement of any offers listed herein. On top of the fireplace insert itself you will need venting and potentially other accessories (depending on model and installation parameters). Call in a pro. Regency gas fireplace inserts can operate on natural gas or propane. If you have an existing wood-burning fireplace, a gas fireplace insert can transform it into a gas-powered centerpiece of your home. The Cost of Framing and Finish Work A completed gas fireplace project can take on many different appearances. Hi, my names Eugene Duke and I love sitting by my fireplace reading a book and sipping on an adult beverage. Yes, gas fireplaces are one potential cause of carbon monoxide poisoning. Its not recommended to install a gas fireplace insert as a DIY project. crawl space ventilation Usually, there is an inspection conducted toward the end of the summer by experienced propane repair technicians. Chimney leaks are very special because they draw smoke and fumes away from our rooms to have an interrupted experience. Youll get instant heat, pinpoint control, terrific safety and other things which a wood burning fireplace simply cant deliver. If you want to get the most out of your fireplace and start it up with just a push of a button, it might be time for you to learn how to install a fireplace insertor hire a pro to do it. Lastly, dont forget to fit the propane hose to the exhaust pipe bottom with the help of a metal band or rubber clamp. How Much Does It Cost to Clean a Gas Fireplace? The final costs are dependent on several factors, including the size, condition and age of your fireplace; the area you live in; any parts that need to be replaced; season and major weather; and how quickly you need the repairs done. On average, the cost to install a gas fireplace in a basement is $1,705 to $4,291. In general, vented gas logs are more expensive, but the flames and the log sets appear more like a wood-burning fireplace than unvented gas logs. How and Should You Install a Chimney Antenna Mount? The following is a list of average cost ranges for each fireplace insert type: The labor cost to install a fireplace insert depends on what its powered by: wood, propane, pellets, or electricity. Highlights. It enhances the performance of a direct vent fireplace if the existing venting system is not moving adequate airflow to the fire, or it can also be used to vent down a fireplace. How Much Does A Home Security System Cost. Vented fireplace inserts can be used without electricity, and unvented options should not be used without electricity. It is cheaper than a wood burning foreplace installation. The average costs associated with installing a gas fireplace include $600 for the firebox installation, $750 for the vent pipe, $2,750 for the full installation and finishing work, and between $150 and $800 for the gas line, depending on how far it needs to run. Are Ventless Gas Fireplace Inserts Safe. Its important to remember that hot air rises, so most of it escapes through the vent. During this time, you can ask them to inspect your tank and see if there are signs of tear and wear that might hinder the effective functionality of the fireplace. It involves a series of factors that must be put in place correctly to get the desired answer. Building codes might require that the damper in your chimney be permanently blocked open if you install gas logs. Remember, you can always shop around and ask contractors for the best estimate on your repair project. Yes, but, The 5 Best Fireproof Fireplace Gloves For 2023 [Ranked]. More of the heat generated by your fireplace is directed into the room instead of out the chimney resulting in less wasted fuel. How much does it cost to replace a gas fireplace insert A Guide to the Different Venting Options for Gas Fireplaces How to Vent a Gas Fireplace Without a Chimney - Vertical You People have been debating between a gas fireplace and wood-burning for many years, but the majority favor propane because of its ability to control and monitor specific temperatures. You should do this even if you havent been using the wood fire: animals, plants, old soot and weather damage can all have an impact on your chimney and flue. The fireplace burn rate will differ from one fireplace to another; many use approximately one gallon of propane per hour. The compensation we receive from advertisers does not influence the recommendations or advice our editorial team provides in our articles or otherwise impact any of the editorial content on Forbes Home. How long can you run a vented gas fireplace? One of the Youre probably thinking about switching to variable-speed air handlers, but you arent sure its the right move for you. The compensation we receive for those placements affects how and where advertisers offers appear on the site. A direct-vent fireplace draws in fresh air from outside into the unit for combustion, and a flue system expels the exhaust to the outside. You can reduce drafts and heat loss by installing glass doors in front of the gas fireplace, but the doors must remain open while the fire is burning. Depending on what kind of fireplace you choose, if youre building your home or remodeling, its relatively easy to run venting through the wall, through the roof, or even directly into the chimney. The Fix. The average fireplace has the following dimensions: An opening thats between 24-36 inches wide, 24-29 inches high, and 16 inches deep. A gas fireplace insert seals off the drafty fireplace and releases all the heat into the room, saving on utility costs. I would get someone to help you. In the US, homeowners with propane fireplaces spend Direct-vent fireplaces are ideal for new and more airtight homes. Fireplace insert installation costs $700$6,500. The Buck insert in my fireplace has been there close to forty years with no problem. Top 5 Reasons to Upgrade to a Wood Insert. The key consideration in venting through the wall is deciding where to place the termination cap and the height of the termination vent. This can cost anywhere from a couple of hundred dollars to over a thousand dollars depending on how far the line will need to run. Gas fireplace inserts need different repairs than a wood-burning or electric fireplace would need. Its essential to follow a regular maintenance schedule to ensure the gas insert works correctly and safely. Gas fireplaces are not extremely efficient in producing heat when vented, so overheating should be of concern. Ceiling fan problems Costs to convert wood fireplace to gas Installing a gas line and either vented or vent-free gas logs will cost from $500 to $2,500. These guidelines are for the protection and safety of you and the people living near you, so follow them completely to get the best out of your gas fireplace. Vent-free fireplaces run on propane or gas, so youll need to hire a professional plumber to install a gas or propane line, and youll be set. It is an ideal venting solution when the fireplace is installed against an exterior wall. The good thing about this tool is that it can tell you how much heat is being produced; thus, you can regulate according to the situation and control the usage to avoid unnecessary expenses. Heres the different labor cost to install each type of fireplace insert: When installing your new insert, you may have to pay extra expenses to connect electric and gas lines, as well as clean and complete any necessary repairs to your wood-burning fireplace system to prepare for the insert. Chauncey grew up on a farm in rural northern California. While there are many potential sources of such exposure, including certain appliances and devices, motor vehicles and wood stoves, gas fireplaces are a common culprit to be aware of. This is because they need sensors and automatic shut-off valves for safety purposes. Gas inserts typically come with a thermostat so you can enjoy the heat with precision control. If you find hauling wood logs messy and exhausting, a gas fireplace insert is an alternative to consider. Its not easy and should only be done by someone who knows what theyre doing. While gas fireplace inserts may seem deceptively easy to install (especially if they are of the pre-built variety) we highly recommend hiring a professional to help with the installation of your gas fireplace. If you have a propane fireplace with 50,000 BTU rating, you will use about 1 gallon of propane per 2 hours it is in use. Direct-vent gas fireplaces are recommended for their efficiency; 70 percent of the heat they generate remains in the house. Repair costs for gas fireplace inserts are relatively cheap and typically run from $100 to $200. Enjoy Free Shipping on most stuff, even big stuff. But if youre buying an existing home with an existing fireplace and need to connect your new gas fireplace system, things can get a little more complicated. 7 Reasons Why Light Bulbs Keep Burning Out In Ceiling Fans. The big difference between a gas fireplace and a gas fireplace insert is that the gas fireplace doesnt need an existing fireplace or even a chimney. I hope this article has provided valuable information that will help you choose a suitable venting option for your gas fireplace. First, when you start using the fireplace, it means you have increased fuel usage. The information and savings numbers depicted above are for demonstration purposes only, and your results may vary. For this reason, they are made to burn clean and allow the combustion by-product to flow into the room the fireplace is in. Do you have a fireplace in your house? Even small amounts of these harmful gases can have serious long-term health consequences. Whether you burn wood in a fireplace, stove or insert, properly loading your unit and using good quality firewood is the key to convenience, efficiency and safety. Gas fireplace insert costs range from $500 to $3,500 if the existing duct and chimney system are in good condition. She also has hosted videos on DIY home tips and solutions and launched multiple home improvement review boards staffed with licensed pros. The average costs associated with installing a gas fireplace include $600 for the firebox installation, $750 for the vent pipe, $2,750 for the full installation and finishing work, and It allows flexible venting to go up and down so the fireplace can be installed anywhere. The best part is that they dont require a chimney and can be installed in any home and interior. This doesnt cost you anything additional. National Fire Code This ordinance states that any combustible material (such as a wood mantel surround or shelf) must be at least 6 inches from the fireplace opening. Type of This compensation comes from two main sources. To view the purposes they believe they have legitimate interest for, or to object to this data processing use the vendor list link below. If you have learned something you didnt know before, or you have discovered that one type of gas fireplace venting better suits your needs than the other, dont hesitate to share your information with an expert and ask for their advice before making a final decision. A gas fireplace insert can cost between $580 and $900 for the unit, not including installation and labor fees. There are some key system differences that are important to know in order to make the best choice for your heating needs. This can be a good energy source, but operating at maximum BTU will mean more fuel will be used, which will result from a fast burn rate. It has been a faithful workhorse. It gives off both ambiance and heat comfort when its cold outside. But as with all gas appliances, they do produce carbon monoxide. Make sure to do your research before deciding what kind of fireplace will best suit your home: the cost of the project, style of the system, efficiency in heating your home and duration of the installation should all be taken into consideration before starting a large project like fireplace installation. The effective way of ensuring you get the best out of your fireplace is to get it tuned up at least once a year. An 18-inch fireplace insert that can heat an area of 100 square feet or less costs $500, while a 36-inch insert that can heat up to 2,000 square feet costs up to $2,000. There is no a better best way to heat your home or run your appliances than installing a propane fireplace. How much does a Gatorade water bottle hold? Each units dimensions are different, subject to change. How Much Does it Cost to Operate a Gas Fireplace? 2023 FPI Fireplace Products International Ltd. All rights reserved. The low cost of maintenance and the ability to use a pre-existing fireplace system (instead of installing a new one) will also save you money. Which one is better B vent or direct vent gas fireplace? 'Show more' : 'Show less' }}. Enter a zip below and get matched to top-rated pros near you. A gas-powered insert has a high energy rating and does not create waste in the form of ash, soot, and creosoteand thats good for the environment. Another good advantage of gas burning is that you can control the amount of heat you want to be produced. I can easily move mine out by myself when cleaning. Empire Tahoe Deluxe Millivolt Fireplace. Beside above, how do I convert my fireplace to gas? These can include extra gas plumbing, electrical wiring, surround material, maintenance, and unit repair. Many unvented gas fireplace inserts come with an oxygen sensor that will turn off the gas before carbon monoxide reaches unsafe levels. There are several factors we are going to look at that increase the consumption of propane gas fireplace inserts. Some models have timers or automatic shutoffs. Shop Wayfair for the best indoor fireplace natural gas insert. They are generalizations based on the small, medium, or large classifications. Vented gas fireplaces can be operated safely in your home, knowing that the exhaust fumes are not entering your homes space. Samantha is an editor who covers all topics home-related including home improvement and repair. Gas fireplaces less common venting methods include a natural vent or power vent, while vent-free fireplaces also exist that dont require any venting system. Labor and materials to install a gas fireplace insert can run from $300 to $1,800. Is the vent powerful enough to release exhaust. Are you NFI (National Fireplace Institute) certified? This is highly dependent on the type of fireplace, your location, the year and what home decorating trends are in season. According to Redfin, fireplace inserts can increase the value of your home up to 13%. Ask them for advice regarding qualified professionals to handle your installation and venting needs. This is ideal if you have a narrow room or if you also want to install a mantel. He remains most at home on a tractor, but has learned that opportunity is where he finds it and discomfort is more interesting than complacency. Keep an extra $200 to $1,000 in your budget for any unexpected work and to cover these additional costs that may come up. Inserts are a great way to produce more heat and reuse a pre-existing fireplace. cellulose A fireplace insert installer near you can help you decide which brand and size fit your home. One way to save on gas fireplace insert costs is to buy the cheapest option, but there are other ways to save without compromising quality. Opt for a vent-free fireplace to avoid all the hassle of finding a venting option for your gas fireplace. A gas fireplace insert is a safe choice since it can be directly vented outside. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. Yes! If youre shopping for a fireplace, yes: gas fireplace inserts are, more often than not, more than worth it. However, its no contest for heat output and efficiencyvented gas fireplaces blow away their ventless counterparts.