A fireplace can make you feel at home. However, some people don’t want to put in the work to maintain a wood-burning fireplace. This process can involve chopping or buying wood, storing wood, and starting the fire. When the fire has burned out, then you must worry about cleaning up all the ash and soot. Many people don’t have the patience or energy – that’s where natural gas fireplaces come in.
Choosing Natural Gas Fireplaces
Natural gas fireplaces are available in styles ranging from traditional to contemporary. They can be found in a wide variety of colors such as cherry, mahogany, oak, pine, white, antique white, black, and designer colors. Some natural gas fireplaces are used primarily for decoration, although they do produce a small amount of heat. Others can be used as a primary heat source.
Fireplace Installation
Fireplaces are available as direct vent, which must be installed near a gas line and vent through the wall behind the fireplace. Direct vent fireplaces do not require a chimney. Natural vented fireplaces must also be installed near a gas line and they are vented through the roof. Vent less or vent-free natural gas fireplaces can be installed almost anywhere as they do not require venting. However, you must be careful in buying a vent less fireplace – they are illegal in some areas and have specific rules in others. If you do decide to purchase a vent less natural gas fireplace, you must follow precautions to prevent dangerous gases circulating throughout the home.
Outdoor Gas Fireplaces: Creating the Perfect Atmosphere
Outdoor gas fireplaces can create the perfect setting. Ranging from rustic simplicity to elegant extravagance, outdoor fireplaces can be free-standing or built-in structures. A built-in fireplace can be the centerpiece of an elaborate outdoor living area – these fireplaces are designed by landscape architects or designers or pool and spa professionals. Made of bricks and mortar, they can feature any design elements you might desire. They can be a part of an outdoor kitchen or near the pool. Many people are using outdoor gas fireplaces to make their pools and hot tubs more useful year-round. In cool months, they can sit on the deck and enjoy hot chocolate and roasted marshmallows by the fire. Others create an elaborate backyard oasis, complete with palm trees and a veranda—with the fireplace as an intricate part of the design.
On the flip side are the smaller, less expensive portable models. Pacific Products, for example, offer a portable outdoor gas fireplace. This lightweight fireplace can be easily transported on camping trips, to tailgate parties, or simply to your backyard deck.
Chimneys are another form of outdoor fireplaces. While these are not technically gas fireplaces, some can use natural gas inserts.Target and Sears both offer a selection of low-cost, small and portable outdoor fireplaces. Montigo is another source for outdoor gas fireplaces. You can also check your local retail, department, and garden supplies stores.