Dreaming of a New Gas Appliance? Mr. Smokestack Sells & Installs the Best Gas Fireplaces, Inserts & Stoves
Let’s face it – gas hearth appliances make life simpler and relaxation even easier. You can now sit down in front of a roaring fire, without putting in the work of hauling wood or building up a fire. All you have to do is lift a finger to flip a switch or push a button, and voila – you’ve got heat and ambience in an instant. It’s no wonder more and more homeowners in the Raleigh/Durham area are making the conversion.
But gas fireplaces and inserts haven’t always met the high standards of homeowners. Logs used to look phony, flame patterns used to be unrealistic, and heat output left a lot to be desired. Not anymore. When you choose from the wide-ranging options of appliances here at Mr. Smokestack Chimney Service, you’ll find that every box is checked.
With a variety of products from the best brands in the business like Valor, Regency, Hearthstone, and more, you’re sure to find the perfect gas-fueled appliance that fits your needs and budget. Ready to dive in? Contact us through our website, or give us a call at 919-747-1859 to schedule a time to meet with one of our trained specialists.
What’s the Difference Between a Gas Fireplace & a Gas Insert?
While quite similar, there is a distinct difference between the two appliances…
A gas insert refers to a fully contained combustion chamber that is installed directly into an existing fireplace. Some things to know?
- It’s a great option for homeowners who have a traditional masonry fireplace that are looking to switch fuel types, but keep their hearth, fireplace, and chimney structure intact.
- They must meet specific requirements and the exact dimensions, which usually means that the installation process is a bit more involved than others.
- Because of their design, they tend to give off the most heat and come with a variety of customizable, decorative trim options.
A gas fireplace is similar to an insert because it is also a self-contained fire-burning unit. Yet, unlike how an insert requires the presence of an established fireplace, a gas fireplace system can be installed just about anywhere.
Want to learn more about the differences between these two appliances and which one might be better suited for you and your needs? Get in touch with someone from the Mr. Smokestack team. You can reach us by filling out this appointment request form through our website or simply give us a call at 919-747-1859. We’d love to work with you.
How Do I Choose Between a Gas Fireplace, Insert, or Stove?
Well, like any other purchase for your home – whether it’s a new appliance or a simple throw pillow, the ultimate deciding factor is you and what you prefer. When it comes to choosing your next gas-fueled heating appliance, whether you decide on a fireplace, insert, or stove, you really can’t go wrong…especially if you’re working with the excellent team at Mr. Smokestack.
However, if you find yourself stuck and unsure which specific product might be the best fit for you, here are some things to consider:
Gas Fireplaces
- Radiant, convection heat
- Many models are outdoor compatible
- Highly efficient heat producers
- Customizable options from logs to fireback lining
- Tons of features like the HeatShift System™, allowing wall-mounted items and devices to be protected against heat
- Countless design possibilities: from modern and linear to a more traditional focal point
- Variety of brands to choose from
Gas Inserts
- Available in a range of sizes to be sure to fit the dimensions of your masonry opening
- Highly efficient
- Feature add-ons that can adjust your unit for max efficiency, performance, and fuel savings
- Options to control both temperature and flame height
- Customizable options that allow you to really match the design aesthetic of your living space
- Variety of brands to choose from
Gas Stoves
- On-demand pilot lighting system
- Built-in convection blowers
- Radiant, remote controllable heat
- Realistic flicker and glow
- A range of styles and sizes
Don’t worry if your head happens to be spinning even more now. It’s a lot to digest! Luckily, for those who live in the Raleigh or Durham, NC area, when you come to Mr. Smokestack we help break it down and make it easy to choose the appliance that’s right for you. We carry and install so many different appliances from only the best brands in the nation, so we’re sure that we’ll have just the right product for you.
Looking to schedule a time to chat with someone from our team? Schedule with us online or give us a ring at 919-747-1859. We’re here to help you in any way we can.
What Are the Benefits of Fueling with Gas?
Especially considering how far gas fireplaces and inserts have come over the last several years, it’s really no surprise that more and more homeowners are considering making the switch. Here are some of the biggest benefits to utilizing gas as a fuel source:
- It’s efficient. Perhaps the biggest draw to switching to gas is the fact that gas-fueled appliances are known to be excellent at generating radiant, efficient heat. So, rather than worrying all your heat is escaping through the chimney, with a gas fireplace, insert, or stove, you can trust that your living space will receive all the warmth instead – just like it should be.
- It’s cost effective. Because of their efficiency, operating your gas logs, fireplace, or insert can help you cut down on other energy costs. You can spend less to receive more high-quality, room-warming heat from your appliance. Turn down the thermostat and enjoy a comfortable living space.
- It’s smoke-free. When you’re simply trying to enjoy a nice evening with friends or family by the fire, few things can be more infuriating than smoke billowing out of your chimney and back into the room. With a gas system, this is never an issue. Because of their cleaner burn properties – and the fact that many appliances feature a panel covering – you can still experience the calming beauty of flames, without fear of smoke interference.
- It’s versatile. Not only is there a variety of products themselves (think fireplaces, stoves, and inserts), there is versatility in design, size, and style options as well. Whether you’re looking for something sleek and modern to warm an upstairs bedroom, or you’d like to revamp your current masonry fireplace with a more updated and efficient appliance, you’ve got choices. Not to mention all the trim and other material customizations!
- It can increase home value. Whether or not you plan to ever sell your home, a gas-fueled appliance can add a lot of value. Many homebuyers are in the market for a property with a fireplace or stove, and when it’s gas-burning, it’s even better because of the low maintenance aspect.
Do Gas Fireplaces Require a Chimney?
Great question. With so much variety on the market when it comes to gas-fueled appliances, it can get a little confusing to keep everything straight. Generally, yes, gas fireplaces will require some form of ventilation. But there are some exceptions.
Gas fireplaces largely fall into two different categories based on the way they circulate air and release exhaust: vented and ventless. Vented models may either utilize a direct vent system or a more traditional vertical chimney, while ventless units require neither.
Vented vs. Ventless?
Invented in the 1980s, direct vent fireplaces introduced a new way to enjoy the ambient glow of a nice, home fire. Featuring a glass plate that completely seals the unit off from the inside of the home, direct vent systems connect directly to the outside (usually through a wall) and draw in air to create combustion. Because everything is airtight and effectively sealed, this process makes these systems the most efficient way to enjoy a gas-fueled fireplace, and makes them the most versatile, too, since they don’t have to be vented vertically.
The only difference with normally vented gas fireplaces (as opposed to those that feature a direct vent) is that, like a traditional wood-burning fireplace, regular vented systems require the use of a full chimney to vent the byproducts and harsh fumes created during combustion.
Ventless, on the other hand, is a different story. As suggested in the name itself, these types of fireplaces actually don’t require the use of any flue or venting system. Designed to produce byproducts and combustion fumes in lesser amounts, these units gather air from inside the room to use for combustion before processing it and circulating it back out into the home.
Note: Because of this, ventless fireplaces are not meant to be enjoyed for hours on end. Rather, they are designed to operate for roughly 3-4 hours at a time.
What Does Gas Fireplace Maintenance Look Like?
Just like any other appliance in your home, the lifespan, functionality, and overall quality of your fireplace is largely dependent on how you care for it. It’s important to remember that while any gas-fueled appliance, be it insert, fireplace, or stove, requires significantly less general maintenance, it is not without needs. No matter your fuel type, some semblance of attention and a little TLC is required if you wish to get the most out of your system.
In general, you should plan to get your gas system serviced by a professional at least once a year. Preventive, annual services, like chimney cleanings and inspections, ensure that everything is continuing to operate properly and efficiently. Gas logs may not create the amount of soot and creosote and other buildup as wood when it is burned, but there are still byproducts that form which can accumulate in the firebox and chimney flue over time – and negatively impact the performance of your appliance in the process.
As far as services specific to gas? An annual gas fireplace, insert, or stove service will involve the following:
- Verify the gas connection is not leaking and has been installed properly
- Ensure that the burner – and all its components – are still working as they should
- See that the logs have been stacked according to manufacturer instructions
- Replace/refresh the media found under the burner (glass beads, stones, lava rocks, etc.)
Has it been awhile since you’ve last had your gas appliance inspected or serviced by a professional? Fortunately, if you live in the greater Raleigh/Durham area, Mr. Smokestack is here to help. Whether it’s time for that annual chimney inspection or it’s been a minute since your system was last cleaned, the talented team of Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA)- trained technicians are the ones to trust.
Schedule an appointment online or give us a call at 919-747-1859 to learn more.
How Much Does it Cost To Install a Gas Fireplace?
Honestly, it all depends. While we wish it was a clear, straightforward price, but because there are so many different units and so many different installation options, there is just no way we could even provide a range of estimates.
Here at Mr. Smokestack Chimney Service, we care deeply about price transparency and providing the best services at the most affordable prices. That’s why you won’t find pricing listed anywhere on our website – because we never wish to give any false information to our customers or those soon to be.
However, we’d be more than happy to discuss quotes and estimates over the phone or at an appointment!
No matter what stage you’re in on this journey toward finding the perfect gas system for your home and family, our team is there beside you, every step of the way. Please, reach out to us with any questions you may have about our variety of products, as well as any inquiries about pricing.
We’re also proud to offer a financing program, so that you don’t have to worry about coming up with a large sum of cash. With financing, you can still get the product or have the work done, then pay according to schedule that works better for you. Ask us about it to learn more!
Can I Install a Gas Fireplace Myself?
No. We know how tempting it can be with all these home improvement shows and DIY enthusiasts creating blogs and videos on how to update your home and save money, but… when it comes to fireplaces, chimneys, and other appliances that come into close contact with something as dangerous as fire, it’s best to leave the installation and maintenance work to the professionals.
Besides, gas fireplace installation involves careful attention and industry knowledge to be sure everything is properly connected and in accordance with all regulations and codes. Some things to keep in mind…
- Not only does a gas line need to be installed (often the case when switching from wood to gas), it also needs to be properly connected to ensure safe and suitable performance.
- If it’s an insert, the dimensions and specifications need to be the correct measurements of the existing fireplace opening and the chimney lining will likely need to be replaced.
- A direct vent fireplace will require an opening to the outside that is the proper dimensions for the flue to be able to vent correctly and effectively.
- …and more.
Just do yourself a favor and call on the experts at Mr. Smokestack. You can rest assured that when you work with us, you’re getting the best out of your investment. Plus, this way, the only hard part for you is checking your calendar to see when you’re free for the installation service.
Book Now for Fast, Reliable Gas Fireplace Installation With Mr. Smokestack Chimney Service
Ready to have your new gas insert or fireplace installed? Trust the job to the pros here at Mr. Smokestack Chimney Service. We’ll make sure everything is installed correctly (including your new gas line) so you can start enjoying the efficient, environmentally-friendly, convenient warmth of a gas unit ASAP.
Call 919-747-1859 or schedule with us online today to get started.
Want the best in wood-burning appliances for your home? We absolutely can handle the restoration and/or installation of any firplace, insert, or stove.