- Q. What product is right for me?
A: Choosing a heating appliance can seem daunting but it really doesn't have to be. The first decision that must be made is what fuel is appropriate for your application.
Gas: If convenience is of utmost importance, a natural gas appliance is the way to go. With the ability to have a roaring fire at the the push of a button or the flip of switch, natural gas appliances are the ultimate in convenience. With major advancements having been made in this category, gas appliances are now an energy efficient, economical, and attractive way to heat your home. From traditional to ultra contemporary, there is sure to be a gas appliance that suits your style.
Wood: If you have access to firewood and don't mind a little bit of preparation, a wood burning appliance should be at the top of your list. Wood appliances have evolved over the past several years and have become one of the most eco-friendly and economical ways to heat your home. This category also features a wide range of styles sure to blend with the style of your home.
Pellet: Pellet appliances are a good bet if you have propane or electric heat and would like to switch to something a bit more economical. If a wood appliance is out of the question, pellet is the next best thing in terms of economy. Typically most customers find that the cost of running pellet appliances is comparable to the cost of running a high efficiency natural gas appliance. Pellets are a highly sustainable and eco-friendly source of fuel. - Q. What's the difference between a masonry fireplace, a zero clearance fireplace, an insert, and a stove?
A: Masonry fireplace: Masonry fireplaces are typically found in older homes and are rarely installed nowadays. A masonry fireplace is comprised of full size bricks that form the actual structure of the firebox itself.
Zero clearance fireplace: A zero clearance fireplace is an appliance designed to be installed into new framing. Zero clearance fireplaces are available in either gas or wood configurations. If you are looking to install a fireplace into new construction or into an area that does not contain an existing fireplace, a zero clearance fireplace is what you're looking for.
Insert: An insert is an appliance designed to fit into an existing wood burning fireplace. Inserts are made in gas, wood and pellet configurations. Inserts are ideal for customers who would like to update their drafty, inefficient fireplace without the added cost and mess of demolition and reconstruction.
Stove: A stove is a freestanding appliance available in gas, wood, or pellet varieties. Stoves can be installed virtually anywhere, and do not require any additional framing in your home. A stove is a good choice if space is at a premium or the added cost of constructing and finishing off a zero clearance fireplace is not desired. - Q. Do I have a gas fireplace, or a wood burning fireplace fitted with gas logs?
A: Just because your fireplace has a gas powered flame does not necessarily mean it is a gas fireplace. If your fireplace has bifold glass doors that can be opened, and it burns gas, you more than likely have a wood burning fireplace that has been fitted with gas logs. Fireplaces configured in this manner can often be converted back to their original wood burning state, or they can be fitted with a high efficiency gas or wood burning insert.
If your fireplace has a solid sheet of non active glass, you probably have a gas fireplace or it has already been fitted with an insert.