What is a gas insert?
Gas inserts are a great option if you’re looking to upgrade your existing traditional fireplace or masonry fireplace. They’re a lower-cost option than removing a masonry chimney and still offer great aesthetics with top heating performance and efficiency. Gas inserts work by using clean energy, like natural gas or propane, as fuel to lower heating costs and eliminate the hassle of burning wood. Nonetheless, a flame and embers are accurately simulated to create a realistic wood-burning atmosphere.
They’re designed to be installed within an existing fireplace opening or masonry cavity and ventilate the unit using the existing chimney.
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Why Install A Gas Insert?
The benefits that a gas insert offers over a traditional fireplace are plenty.
- Efficiency. Thanks to the technologies that are being used in today’s gas inserts in combination with clean fuel like propane and natural gas, you can achieve a great heating experience with much less fuel consumption. Your heating costs will decrease significantly.
- Comfort. Gas inserts don’t burn real wood which means you can start heating your home with the press of a button. Eliminating the need to make a whole fire by yourself.
- More control Gas inserts offer you the opportunity to control every detail of their performance. As opposed to a wood-burning fireplace, with a gas insert, you can control things like the amount of heat being generated, and the amount of flame being displayed and even set different heating cycles.
- Customization. With the majority of gas inserts, you can customize different sections of the design to create a gas fireplace that will not only fit but upgrade your living space to a new style.
Direct Vent Vs. B-Vent
There are 2 main types of venting methods that gas inserts use.
The direct vent is a venting method that gathers the air that is needed for combustion from the outside atmosphere. Additionally, all the gases produced by the combustion are also released into the outside atmosphere. No chimney is required for this venting method as direct vent inserts can be vented horizontally.
As opposed to a direct vent, B-Vent method gathers air from inside your home to be used in the combustion process. The buoyancy of the released gases is used to vent exhaust through the vertical dedicated pipe system that this venting method needs to function.
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To Learn more about R.E Macdonalds gas inserts, get in touch with one of our specialists today!
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you offer installation, repair, and maintenance services in Langley?
Yes, we do. R.E. MacDonald proudly serves Langley homeowners with complete gas insert supply, installation, service, and maintenance, whether you’re upgrading an old masonry fireplace or maintaining an existing unit.
Do you offer installation, repair, and maintenance services in Abbotsford?
Absolutely. We provide gas insert installation, repairs, and routine maintenance throughout Abbotsford. Our skilled gas fitters ensure your unit runs safely and efficiently, season after season.
Do you offer installation, repair, and maintenance services in Surrey?
Yes, we serve Surrey and the surrounding Fraser Valley communities, from helping you choose the right unit to professional installation and ongoing service.
Can you put a gas insert in a wood fireplace?
Yes. Gas fireplace inserts are specifically designed to be installed inside an existing wood-burning fireplace. The insert uses the existing fireplace and chimney structure, with new venting installed to safely bring in combustion air and exhaust gases.
Our team will inspect your existing fireplace, confirm that it is suitable for an insert, and complete the installation.
Do you need a chimney for a gas fireplace insert?
Not always. The venting method depends on the existing fireplace, the insert selected, and the manufacturer’s approved installation methods.
Most direct vent gas inserts are vented through the existing chimney using two liners: one supplies combustion air and the other exhausts. However, some direct vent gas inserts installed in masonry fireplaces can be vented horizontally through an exterior wall.
During your site visit, we will determine the best venting option for your home and recommend the fireplace that best suits your installation.
How does a gas fireplace insert work?
A gas fireplace insert burns natural gas or propane to provide efficient, controllable heat while creating the appearance of a traditional wood fire with realistic flames, logs, and glowing embers.
The sealed fireplace is installed inside your existing wood-burning fireplace and vented safely outdoors. Instead of cutting, storing, and burning firewood, you can enjoy your fireplace with the push of a remote control. There is no wood to carry, no ash to clean up, and no smoke inside your home.
Our team handles the complete installation, including the fireplace, venting, gas connection, and gas permit.
How long does a gas fireplace insert last?
With the right care, a quality gas fireplace insert provides many years of dependable warmth. The key is keeping up with maintenance—annual gas insert maintenance keeps the burner, venting, and gas connections operating safely and goes a long way toward extending the life of your unit.
How much does a new gas fireplace insert cost?
The price depends on your existing fireplace, your venting needs, and the model you choose. The cost of a gas fireplace insert installation generally comes down to the unit, professional labour, and any gas line or venting work needed. Book a free in-home estimate, and we’ll put together an accurate quote.
How much does it cost to replace a gas fireplace insert?
Replacing an older unit is typically easier than a first installation because the venting and gas line may already be in place. This means a gas fireplace insert replacement may be cheaper than you think, though it depends on your setup and the new insert. We will provide you with a clear, no-obligation estimate.
How to choose a gas fireplace insert?
Start with the size of the space you want to heat, the fuel you’d prefer, and the look you’re after. From there, our friendly sales team can walk you through the options — and once you’ve decided, we’ll handle the full gas insert installation for you.