15Mar
Things You Should Know About Converting
It may surprise you to learn that gas fires can provide you with heat efficiencies of up to 90%. The question is, what should you do if you currently have an open fireplace?
For some people, there’s nothing better than feeling the heat of a warm open fire. However, in a lot of ways, open fires are going out of fashion and many people are considering ways to convert a wood fireplace to gas.
If you’re reading this blog, then you may be wondering if you can convert to a gas fireplace. The good news is, that’s exactly what we’re about to cover.
So to learn if gas fireplace conversions are possible and how they can be done, keep reading.
Can You Convert a Wood Fireplace to Gas?
The short answer is yes, you can convert a wood fireplace to a gas fireplace. There are several options when it comes to wood vs gas fireplaces. Also, you can find a place in Ottawa that can do it for you.
Having said this, there are a few criteria that need to be met before a conversion takes place. Although after you check if you meet the criteria, you’ll have a better insight as to whether or not it’ll work for you.
How Much Does the Conversion Cost?
Once you’ve decided that you want to get a fireplace installation, it’s good to consider the price points of getting a conversion. Ultimately, converting your wood-burning fireplace to gas is an investment.
The prices can range from roughly $2,300 to over $10,000. Of course, this depends on how big your fireplace is and how much work needs doing.
When you take into account the different aspects of a conversion, it can add up. However, this is something that you can enjoy for years to come.
Also, the kind of gas conversion that you want to do will affect the cost. So even if it initially seems expensive, there may be options that are more suitable for your price range.
Gas Insert vs. Gas Logs: What’s Better?
Another thing you should be aware of is which kind of fireplace conversion you would prefer. Both the gas insert and the gas logs have their benefits, so it’s really about what would work best for you.
Gas inserts are great for homes, as they typically have a higher heat output than gas logs. So if you’re trying to heat a whole room, then this may be the best option for you.
Having said that, gas inserts are more expensive than gas logs, so it all depends on whether or not the price point is a priority for you.
On the other hand, gas logs look great and they help to give your room a more aesthetic finish.
The problem is they don’t give off much heat. However, if heat isn’t something you’re concerned with, then they’re a cheaper alternative to gas inserts.
Requirements
Before you get your conversion done, there are a few requirements that you should be aware of. Once you know what these requirements are, you’ll have a better idea of how this affects your current fireplace.
There are 2 main things: one thing you need is a gas line. The gas line is there so that you have the correct gas flow running into your gas insert.
This is installed so that you aren’t oversupplying or undersupplying your new gas fireplace. Instead, you’re getting just the right amount. Also, it ensures that the gas supply running into your fireplace is safe.
The other thing you need is a thorough inspection. Depending on the kind of fireplace you have, you may need a professional chimney sweep to remove any build-up or blockages within your chimney.
This may also mean that the chimney sweeps can make any repairs that could cause problems later on when the gas is installed. For both the gas line and the chimney sweep, we recommend you use a reputable and professional service.
Why Should I Convert?
While there’s a long list of reasons why you should convert, it’s an important question to ask, particularly if you’re planning on converting a fireplace that may have been there for years.
One reason to convert a wood-burning fireplace to gas is that they’re very convenient to use. Unlike normal open fires, gas fires can start almost instantly.
This means you can have heat without going to the effort of getting wood to start a fire and then waiting for it to heat up. Also, if it’s too hot or too cold, you can simply use the control button to increase or decrease the temperature.
Another benefit of gas is that it gives off fewer fumes compared to open fires. If you’re somebody who cares about the environment and wants to make a difference, then getting a gas fire is a great way to reduce your carbon footprint.
Aside from fewer fumes, the gas almost has a neverending supply. So you can sit back and relax, knowing your room is being heated, without thinking of how much wood you need.
These are just a few of the reasons you should convert, but there are many more than this!
Can I Do It Myself?
When it comes to converting a wood fireplace to gas, there are some potential risks. With that in mind, it’s better not to do the conversion yourself.
The problem is, it can be dangerous and you run the potential of having a gas leak in your home, which is the last thing you want! Instead, it’s safer to get a licensed professional to come and do the conversion for you.
Get Your Gas Conversion Today
There are several things you need to be aware of when you convert a wood fireplace to gas, and we hope this guide has made the process clearer for you. At Burning Log, one of the things we pride ourselves on is delivering outstanding service.
So if you’re considering a gas conversion, then why not contact us today?