We Offer Gas Log & Insert Installation Services
If you’re tired of all the hard work that comes with preparing a traditional wood-burning fireplace for the winter – including chopping and hauling wood, constantly tending the fire, and continuously cleaning up ash – then a gas fireplace insert may be the perfect hassle-free alternative for you. With heat and comfort being as simple and instant as the push of a button, it’s no wonder gas fireplace inserts and logs are becoming a popular choice among homeowners.
If you’re contemplating making the switch to a gas-fueled appliance, you’re not alone. Many are making the same call as they note its numerous advantages. So let’s take a look at all of the benefits gas inserts and logs have to offer.
When you’re ready to take a look at some of the great gas logs and inserts we sell and install here at English Sweep, be sure to give us a call at 636-225-3340 or you can reach out to us online. And if you happen to reside in or near St. Louis, you can rely on our certified chimney technicians to expertly handle the installation process too.
What Are the Benefits of Gas Logs & Inserts?
There’s more to gas fireplaces than meets the eye. Most people are sold on gas fireplaces knowing there is no longer the huge inconvenience of dealing with firewood. But there are several other reasons gas fireplace inserts and log sets are gaining popularity, including:
High Efficiency Levels:
Efficiency is never a worry with gas-fueled fireplace inserts. In fact, they’re known for being one of the most efficient heating appliances you can invest in! Not only does heating efficiency help provide a more steady, even heat, they also are more energy efficient – which lowers your heating costs.
Easy to Operate:
Convenience is key for those seeking a hassle-free fireplace experience. With simple controls and instant ignition, gas logs and inserts are user friendly – even for those who struggle with knowing which buttons to use on the TV remote. Plus, there’s nothing better than instant warmth and ambiance at the touch of a button. With a gas insert or log set, it’s a straightforward and effortless way to enjoy the comfort and beauty of a fire in your home.
Heat Control:
It’s also a lot easier to control your heat levels with gas inserts and log sets. Temperature is easily adjusted, as well as flame height and intensity. You can go ahead and kiss that old damper goodbye!
Less Mess:
Need we say more? Because gas fireplaces don’t utilize wood at all, you don’t have to worry about buying, storing, and hauling in firewood, saving you precious time and effort.
Realistic Look & Feel:
Nowadays, gas logs create authentic fireside experiences, so you still can have that classic look and feel you love. They also come in various styles and designs, allowing you to choose one that perfectly complements your home’s decor and personal preferences.
Environmental Considerations:
While not entirely emissions-free, gas fireplaces tend to produce fewer emissions and pollutants than wood-burning fires, making them a more environmentally friendly option.
Safety:
Gas inserts are equipped with safety features, such as automatic shut-off valves and glass barriers. If you have young children around, these safety measures provide you with peace of mind that everyone can safely enjoy a quiet and cozy night around the fireplace.
What Are the Different Types of Gas Log Fireplaces?
In order to decide which type of gas log is best for you, it’s important to understand the three types of gas log fireplaces. Each has its own set of features and benefits, and in order to help you choose the right one for your needs, we have put together a brief comparison of the three.
Whether you’re looking for realism, convenience, or efficiency, there’s likely a gas log fireplace type that suits your unique requirements.
- Direct Vent: Direct vent fireplaces require a vent pipe that can be routed through an exterior wall or through a roof. This allows the fireplace to draw fresh combustion air from outside the home, and then also exhaust the combustion byproducts directly from your home. This ensures you maintain better air quality inside your home, while also reducing the risk of carbon monoxide or other harmful gases from entering into your living space.
- Vented: A vented gas log fireplace needs a functional chimney or venting system to allow the combustible gases to exit the home. This type of gas log fireplace looks more realistic because it simulates the natural draft and open combustion of a wood-burning fireplace. This results in a more authentic flame appearance.
- Vent-Free: Also called ventless, this type of gas log fireplace is designed to operate in an enclosed space, as it doesn’t require a chimney or external venting. The key advantage of vent-free gas log fireplaces is that they can essentially be installed anywhere. They also offer high heating efficiency because they release heat directly into the room. Without a vent or a chimney, there is no heat loss, making them an efficient and flexible heating option for various living spaces.
Which is right for you? Need some help? We’ve got you covered. Call us or request an appointment online today.
What Is a Gas Fireplace Insert?
A gas fireplace insert is a self-contained heating unit designed to fit directly into a wood-burning fireplace. They typically consist of a firebox, a gas burner, and faux logs or other decorative element that helps create a realistic flame appearance. These inserts are also known for their easy-to-use features and convenience – but what sets them apart from gas log sets is the increased heating efficiency they offer.
So in our opinion, getting a fireplace that is highly effective and energy-efficient, as well as one that provides the charming ambiance most homeowners desire, is a win-win scenario! We consider gas inserts an excellent choice for homeowners looking to upgrade their existing fireplace.
Which Gas Fireplace Option Is Right for You?
Picking the best option for you when there are so many factors to consider can be daunting. That’s why we have created a short list of things to consider to help you make the best decision. Here is what we recommend you consider before jumping all in with a new gas insert or log set:
- Space and Layout: Look at the space available and determine where the most suitable location is based on how close your fireplace would be to surrounding walls, windows, and other furniture. Homeowners typically enjoy the boundless opportunities that ventless fireplaces provide, as they can be installed virtually anywhere within your living space, offering both flexibility and design freedom. Our priority is to guarantee a safe installation process, while delivering a fireplace upgrade you are more than happy with.
- Ventilation Options: Each fireplace type requires different ventilation options. Unlike direct vent and vented fireplaces, a vent-free fireplace requires no venting system. Gas inserts require venting through a chimney or direct venting system. It is important to discuss specific clearance and safety requirements with a certified chimney technician.
- Heating Efficiency: We want to make sure the gas log or fireplace insert you choose can adequately heat the space it is intended for. All gas log fireplaces have a British Thermal Unit (BTU) rating that can help you decide which gas log fireplace you need. A BTU is just a unit of measurement used to quantify the amount of thermal energy or heat energy required to raise the temperature of one pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit. In simpler terms, it helps us determine how much heating power a particular gas log or insert can deliver. The higher the BTU rating is, the more capable it is of heating a larger or colder space.
- Budget: Most homeowners have budgets they would like to stay under for home improvement projects. So, it is important to keep in mind the costs associated with purchasing the unit, installation, materials (including venting system, if applicable), gas line installation (if one doesn’t exist), and any modifications to the existing structure. Gas inserts can be more expensive because they may require more extensive installation work. If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, gas logs are the way to go.
Still not sure which one is right for you? Perhaps you have more questions about gas inserts or gas logs? Please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at 636-225-3340 or book an appointment with us online.
Will Gas Logs & Gas Fireplace Inserts Work Without Electricity?
Gas logs and gas fireplace inserts typically require electricity to operate certain components, such as the ignition system, certain safety features, and any optional blowers or fans. However, if you find yourself in a situation where you have no power and need heat, in many cases, gas logs and inserts can still provide heat and a flame display during a power outage.
Most, if not all, gas logs and fireplace inserts have a pilot light. This is a small, continuous flame that remains lit. When the power goes out, the pilot light isn’t affected. This allows you to relight the main burners manually by using a control knob or valve on your appliance.
If you’re in an area that experiences frequent power outages during the colder months, it’s important to check the specific features of your gas log set or fireplace insert. Typically, your best options for this would be to consider a ventless or vent-free fireplace, as these usually require fewer electrical components to operate.
Who Installs Gas Fireplace Inserts & Gas Logs Near Me?
In the end, there’s a lot to be gained from switching to a gas appliance, and if you feel this would be the right fit for your home, then please reach out to our team! Whether you’re making the switch to gas or updating an old gas appliance, we’d be happy to help walk you through this entire process.
Our team sells and installs the very best gas logs and inserts on the market, and we’re confident we can help you find the perfect fit. Having been in business for over 40 years, we have a pretty good idea of what products work and are worth the investment, and which ones aren’t.
We also have certifications with the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) and the National Fireplace Institute (NFI). Moreover, we also maintain memberships with both the Midwest Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association (MWHPBA) and the National Chimney Sweep Guild (NCSG). You can trust that our team is not only highly qualified and certified, but also dedicated to upholding the highest industry standards. We take great pride in providing you with the best expertise and service for all of your fireplace and chimney needs.
Make the Switch or Upgrade Your Gas Appliance With Ease
If you take a quick glance at our long list of positive customer reviews on Google, you’ll quickly come to find that our unwavering commitment to excellence, combined with our highly skilled and certified team has earned us a strong reputation within our community. These reviews serve as a testament to our consistent dedication in our industry and reflect the trust and satisfaction of our valued customers. With English Sweep, you’ve got a team you can feel confident in for the long haul.
Give us a call today at 636-225-3340 or reach out to us on our website!
We have an extensive line of products on offer, so you can always count on us to install your next chimney chase cover.