The amount of heat output and level of ornateness of appliances can vary widely, so matching a hearth appliance to its intended use is important. Do you want to watch a pretty fire, heat part of your house or both?
“What’s better than turning on a gas log or fireplace with the flip of the switch to have great ambience?”
Freestanding Stoves
For increased energy efficiency in your home and the am- bience of a cozy fire, a freestanding gas stove is a perfect fit.
A versatile freestanding gas stove can be installed in nearly any room for added warmth on a cold winter’s day, which would allow you to lower the thermostat in the rest of the house. Living rooms, kitchens and other gathering places are especially conducive to the warmth of a free- standing gas stove.
Advanced burner technology has helped manufacturers develop gas stoves that feature large, dancing yellow flames and glowing red embers that closelyresemble a wood fire. In- tricately molded and
existing chimney, though a flue liner or other modification may be necessary.
Manufactured gas log sets can be installed into existing fireplaces with few modifications except the addition of a gas line. Log sets are a popular way to upgrade
Gas stoves, fireplaces, fireplace inserts and log sets offer a wide range of control options, including manual controls, remotes, wall thermostats and remote thermostats. Most offer blowers to help circulate the heat more efficiently. Gas inserts and log sets can provide an alternative to existing
“Owning a gas hearth appliance isn’t as expensive as homeowners think it is — especially if they have gas on site,” Wheeler says.
Anytime Installation
Although many gas hearth products are installed in new con- struction or as part of a remodeling project, that doesn’t have to be the case. Depending on the model you choose, the heat generated and local building codes, gas hearth appliances are appropriate for every room in the house — even bathrooms and kitchens. Be sure to have an experienced hearth installer put in your gas log set or fireplace.
If you’re thinking of addinghearth appliances as part of new
Freestanding stoves are the most versa- tile hearth product and are available in a wide variety of sizes, colors and styles for diverse decorating tastes. Stoves heat quickly, and many feature ceramic glass view- ing areas to offer a glimpse of flames.
In areas that experience power outages dur- ing the winter, a freestanding gas stove can give you piece of mind by being able to heat at least part of the house should an outage occur.
Stoves are classified by the way they are vented — top vent, direct vent or
home construction or remodeling, your architect or builder can help you determine the best location in each room for an appliance. A specialty hearth retailer is your best resource to show you the variety of products available, discuss your heating needs and help you make the best choice
based on your appliance preferences, decorating goals and budget.
Before actually purchasing a hearth appliance, you should assess your needs and do a little homework to narrow your choices. In addition to a building professional or specialty retailer, you can find a wealth of ideas on the Internet or in the fall/winter issues of home and lifestyle magazines.
The first consideration should be where an ap- pliance will be located. Another factor should be how the unit will be used. Operating and mainte-
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