Fireplace Buying Guide

Natural &

Propane Gas

Installation Cost

If you choose a masonry fireplace your installation costs will be higher due to labor and the higher cost of stone or brick. Manufactured units are faster and easier to install. Whatever you decide, ensure a safe and reliable installation by using a certified professional installer. In addition to assessing the construction of your home, he will obtain the necessary building permits and make sure that the installation meets all local and state codes.

The prices of these fireplaces can range from $600-$2,000 or more depending on size, style, manufacturer and where you purchase. Installation and delivery costs should be added to that.

A gas fireplace can be installed almost anywhere in the home as long as natural gas or propane is available. Always use the services of the most experienced and qualified technician you can find. Gas lines should only be run by licensed plumbers or HVAC technicians (check your local area requirements). Installation can occur along an outside wall or in the middle of a room. Zero clearance construction makes this possible because very little space is needed between the unit and combustible materials.

Wood burning fireplaces can be the most inefficient unless steps are taken to increase efficiency. Two newer, high-efficiency fireplaces, Clean Burning and EPA-certified (to burn less than 7.5 grams of particulates per hour), are more technologically advanced and offer a substantial amount of heat. These fireplaces are insulated, closed combustion systems (glass doors need to be closed for proper operation) that burn wood more efficiently and generate a substantial amount of heat. Click here to see a chart of costs to burn various types of fuel based on the amount of heat they generate. See our links page for the Univer. of Neb. site showing btu ratings of various woods. Due to the economics of firewood, these fireplaces are also good choices in areas with frequent power outages, or where the cost of home heating is an issue.

In contract, Traditional fireplaces are open combustion systems (no glass doors) and are perfect for occasional fires that produce ambiance, warmth and a little snap, crackle and pop!

Generally cheaper and more efficient than wood burning fireplaces. There are many variables in determining the actual costs, such as location of your home, how air tight it is, the size of your room and the cost of gas in your area. Check out our links page for a calculator for YOUR room.

Liquid propane gas contains 2,500 BTU per cubic foot, natural gas contains 1000 BTU per cubic foot.

Costs will depend on your electric rate from your provider.

Most units use approx. 1400 Watts. Our links page offers a source to determine yours.

Guard against creosote build up by burning harder, seasoned woods and monitoring your flue. The Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association (HPBA) recommends that fireplaces and chimneys be inspected annually and cleaned as necessary by a chimney sweep certified by the Chimney Safety Institute of America.

Constant cleaning of ashes and hauling wood. Possible smoke stains on the exterior face if drafting problems develop.

Generally clean burning and require little maintenance. The HPBA recommends an annual inspection by a qualified professional who can inspect the burner, fan, venting, pilot light and thermostat and even clean the glass. Or, check with your owner's manual for instructions for cleaning glass doors. Typical glass cleaners are not as effective as products specifically made to clean the stains on the inside of the doors.

The HPBA also recommends an annual inspection by a chimney sweep certified by the Chimney Safety Institute of America.