Fireplace & Stove FAQ
Gas Fireplaces
What does the fireplace term zero clearance mean?
Zero clearance simply means "0" inches are required between the fireplace and combustible materials. Therefore, framing dimensions are dramatically minimized - allowing the unit to be placed right up against interior or exterior walls. Because there are no restrictions on clearance requirements needed around the unit itself, the unit can be placed right up to an interior or exterior wall for a tight fit. However, we do recommend a 1/4" space for expansion space. (When metal heats, it will expand.)
What is a "direct vent" gas fireplace?
Direct Vent models have a sealed firebox that draws 100% outside air needed to fuel the fire. Direct vent models can be vented horizontally using either rigid or flexible pipe out the side of your house, provided it is on an outside wall. Direct vent fireplaces use a sealed glass front to completely isolate combustion gases and moisture from your home. This is especially important in new construction homes that are built very tightly to comply with today's energy codes. Ventless, vent free or unvented fireplaces are designed to expel combustion gases and moisture directly back into the room. Ventless, vent free or unvented fireplaces and stoves are illegal in many states and municipalities.
Can I regulate the heat output from a gas fireplace to maintain a comfortable room temperature?
Yes. Each of the gas fireplaces we offer are designed to operate with a thermostat control. Because our gas fireplaces are tested and comply with wall furnace standards, homeowners can set the desired room temperature using a thermostat and the fireplace will automatically turn on or off according to the desired temperature.
Will my fireplace operate during an electrical outage?
Yes. Because the fireplace works on an internal millivolt generator the burner will run during power outages and will provide a reliable source of heat when your house furnace is not operating.
Can I rearrange the logs in my gas fireplace?
No. Placement of the logs is critical to the operation and performance of the fireplace. Misarranged logs can result in operational problems. If you notice the logs have been moved during cleaning, check your installation and operating instructions for proper placement or setup a service call.
Why do I have blue flames?
This is a result of normal 'start up' operation. The flames will begin to yellow after the fireplace is allowed to burn for about 15-30 minutes. Because all the oxygen needed for burning comes from the outside, it takes a little while for the firebox to draw enough to become more yellow and orange.
Can I shut the pilot off in the summer?
The pilot helps keep the moisture from inside the firebox, which is caused from the humidity in the air. It also will extend the life of the thermopile and thermocouple when the pilot is left on. It also keeps insects out of the burner tubes, and prevents spiders from building webs inside the firebox. Therefore, it is recommended from all of our manufacturers to leave the pilot on year-round.
I have a wood burning fireplace and want to convert it to gas. What are my options?
There are generally two options when a person wants to convert their wood fireplace to gas. Option 1 is a gas log set and burner that can be installed inside of your current fireplace. A gas log is mostly for looks and generally does not affect the look of the current fireplace. Option 2 is a gas insert. A gas insert is a sealed gas fireplace that is installed into your current fireplace and finished with a trim. This type of fireplace comes with its own blower and offers efficiency and positive heat output into your living space.
If I am interested in a gas log or insert how do I know what will work?
You will need to measure the actual opening width, height, and depth of your fireplace. If you have these dimensions it is helpful to visit our showroom and we can guide you in showing which inserts or gas logs may be an option. If you are interested in the products available, we can visit your home and provide an evaluation to make sure that installation is possible.
Pellet Stoves
Why should I consider a Pellet Stove?
A Pellet Stove is a heating appliance much like a wood or gas stove which burns wood pellets as a fuel source. Most pellet stoves are easily vented through a wall as compared to their wood counterpart. There is also a wider flexibility of installation options since the venting pipes are smaller. Pellet fuel is a renewable resource, unlike oil and gas. The degree of efficiency (measured by particulate in the exhaust) is key to the stoves environmental friendliness. EPA certification makes these stoves the cleanest burning appliances today, with the lowest emissions of any wood, pellet or fossil fueled combustion system (including natural gas).
Wood Pellets
All pellets are not the same. Pellets are made with different combinations and types of wood. There are over 70 different companies in the United States that manufacture pellets and each one has a different formula - trying to make the best pellet. The Pellet Fuels Institute, the industry's trade association, regulates the size and content of pellets. Most important of these tests is the ash content analysis. Ash content determines whether a pellet is considered premium (less than 1% ash content or standard (less than 3% ash content.)
