Installing a fireplace insert can get you more heat without replacing the whole fireplace and chimney. Sometimes, a chimney is already available to run the venting through it to the roof. Vented fireplace inserts can be used without electricity, and unvented options should not be used without electricity. If you want a thorough cleaning at the same time the cost could be closer to $150-$175. If you have a propane fireplace with 50,000 BTU rating, you will use about 1 gallon of propane per 2 hours it is in use. Vented gas logs produce carbon monoxide, meaning your fireplace has to have a flue and chimneysome way to allow the byproduct to escape. Aesthetically appealing: Fireplace inserts come in different designs to fit all styles, from modern to rustic. With wood-burning, it is easy to regulate the size of the burning but maintaining it at a certain temperature is difficult. Gas fireplace inserts are the most energy- Gas logs are available for vented or vent-free gas fireplaces. The direct-vent fireplaces produce efficient heat and are available in different sizes. Labor costs are considerably less to install a gas insert than to install a gas-burning fireplace. Therefore, it is a perfect pick for house remodeling because of its easy installation. In general, gas is a more reliable energy source than electricity or wood. In this guide, Ill go over the different types of gas fireplace vents and what kind of venting system each one requires.if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'airflowacademy_com-box-4','ezslot_1',103,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-airflowacademy_com-box-4-0'); A gas fireplace operates on gas and is fitted with a burner and a venting system. Ill help you figure out the best type and style of fireplace for your home. Fireplace inserts are essentially wood, gas, or electric stoves designed to fit into an existing masonry fireplace. If you find hauling wood logs messy and exhausting, a gas fireplace insert is an alternative to consider. Gas fireplace insert costs can be high, and the additional costs associated with the project can quickly add up. A) Through the wall or horizontal direct vent, B) Through the roof or vertical direct vent, EPA Recommendation for using a gas fireplace without a chimney. A fireplace insert installation costs between $700 and $6,500the cost essentially depends on the type of insert and how it operates. This can cost anywhere from a couple of hundred dollars to over a thousand dollars depending on how far the line will need to run. Gas fireplace insert costs range from $500 to $3,500 if the existing duct and chimney system are in good condition. It can be a difficult and dangerous project and we strongly recommend you hire a professional instead. There is no building a fire and waiting for the fire to build to heat a room. You can also control details like the temperature and flame height. Lastly, dont forget to fit the propane hose to the exhaust pipe bottom with the help of a metal band or rubber clamp. A gas fireplaces BTUs (British thermal unit) are higher than those of a gas fireplace insert, so more heat will come from the built-in gas fireplace. You can reduce drafts and heat loss by installing glass doors in front of the gas fireplace, but the doors must remain open while the fire is burning. The average costs associated with installing a gas fireplace include $600 for the firebox installation, $750 for the vent pipe, $2,750 for the full installation and finishing work, and Theyre easy to install, but they lower the amount of oxygen in the space since there isnt any outside air coming in to feed the flames. A fireplace insert gets installed directly inside of an existing masonry chimney. (Note that the cost of installing vent-free gas logs is often about $200 more than the cost for vented.) Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. A novice DIYer who learns about home ventilation. Many homeowners enjoy the look of real flames without the hassle of moving and stacking firewood or cleaning out a fireplace full of ash. Yes, but, Can You Paint A Marble Fireplace? In general, hiring a professional will cost around $500 to $3,500 depending on the scope and difficulty of the installation. Some of the links on this website are affiliate links. These commissions help to keep the rest of my content free, so thank you! Carbon monoxide and other poisonous gases can sneak into your living space if a gas fireplace isnt properly vented. These can include extra gas plumbing, electrical wiring, surround material, maintenance, and unit repair. Vented inserts generally have a realistic fireplace aesthetic because the temperature is controlled. Some inserts cost more than others, such as wood-burning or gas inserts. Get free, no-commitment estimates from experts near you. There are two options to put this fan-powered device, either on the venting or outside the termination cap. How Much Does It Cost To Install A Gas Fireplace In Basement? It involves a series of factors that must be put in place correctly to get the desired answer. She edited home repair and design content at websites like The Spruce and HomeAdvisor. You can choose the perfect model to match your home or a room in your home. 7 Reasons Why Light Bulbs Keep Burning Out In Ceiling Fans. The vent-free option gives you the flexibility of installing the fireplace anywhere in the house. The glass panel in front of the gas fireplace makes it safe by preventing access to the fire. After all, each style has its benefits and drawbacks depending on the location where you want to install the fireplace. A gas fireplace insert can cost between $580 and $900 for the unit, not including installation and labor fees. Youll get instant heat, pinpoint control, terrific safety and other things which a wood burning fireplace simply cant deliver. Here are some questions to ask a gas fireplace insert installation professional. The Forbes Home editorial team is independent and objective. The first thing EPA recommends is contacting your local authority to have your gas pipelines checked before installing a gas fireplace. R Value During this time, you can ask them to inspect your tank and see if there are signs of tear and wear that might hinder the effective functionality of the fireplace. On the other hand, the outer pipe brings in fresh air for combustion directly into the bottom of the airtight firebox and ignites the fireplace. We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. The fireplace burn rate will differ from one fireplace to another; many use approximately one gallon of propane per hour. Direct vent units are considered the safest choice. First, we provide paid placements to advertisers to present their offers. However, look at all the possibilities, weigh the pros and cons of both models and then pick which one ticks more boxes for you. While we work hard to provide accurate and up to date information that we think you will find relevant, Forbes Home does not and cannot guarantee that any information provided is complete and makes no representations or warranties in connection thereto, nor to the accuracy or applicability thereof. While fireplace inserts may seem easy to install (especially if they are pre-built), youll want to consider hiring a licensed fireplace installer to take care of the installation of your fireplace. A gas fireplace can be vented through the chimney, directly through the wall (horizontally), or through the roof (vertically). If you have a vent-free gas fireplace, it is extremely important to check for leaks around your home regularly. It is perfectly acceptable in most situations to vent downwards, use many elbows, and even vent over 100 feet horizontally. Some models have timers or automatic shutoffs. The bigger the size of the insert, the more it costs. All Rights Reserved. How much does a gas valve for a furnace cost? There are several ways you can warm your bedroom, den, or family room, but a propane fireplace adds something extra to your home. The cost of running a gas insert per hour is at least 50 percent lower than a wood-burning or propane-burning fireplace. But if youre buying an existing home with an existing fireplace and need to connect your new gas fireplace system, things can get a little more complicated. This is an excellent option for homeowners who want to rework their existing wood-burning fireplace into a fuel-efficient heat source. Do you have a fireplace in your house? It should also be replaced if youre remodeling your home and changing the function of the rooms, the insert isnt functional, its not working as efficiently as it should, it needs constant repair, you want to replace the surrounding facing material, or you want the most updated gas fireplace insert in your home. This means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn an affiliate commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase. I can easily move mine out by myself when cleaning. Venting through the roof is costly and labor-intensive work, but sometimes its the only option or a practical option. 2 man lift. Also, they are more responsive to indoor airflow despite being cheaper. Depending on what kind of fireplace you choose, if youre building your home or remodeling, its relatively easy to run venting through the wall, through the roof, or even directly into the chimney. The weather is another factor that will influence the amount of fuel you can use. An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. People prefer to have B-vent appliances as they comply with local building regulations. Here's What You Need to Know. A chimney or flue isnt necessary. Fireplace inserts offer multiple benefits over a traditional fireplace with proper installationa fireplace contractor and installer near you can help you get the job done. When you decide to purchase a gas fireplace, one of the first things you need to figure out is how to vent it safely. Here is a breakdown of the main factors that determine the final cost. After the installation, an inspection is needed to ensure the project meets the local building codes and standards. Most direct-vent fireplaces have two venting options: A pair of rigid flues called coaxial units is used for venting the fireplace. It's that easy. 15 Things You Should Never Burn in the Fireplace, Are you licensed and insured? B-vent fireplaces look more comforting as their large and beautiful flames give an illusion of more heat while looking like real flames. However, natural vent fireplaces are not very efficient in providing heat, although they produce a stunning flame pattern. Samantha is an editor who covers all topics home-related including home improvement and repair. This is ideal if you have a narrow room or if you also want to install a mantel. Let us guide you based on your needs, Not sure how the process works? Turn off the fireplace, let it cool down, and then remove the front cover if there is one and vacuum thoroughly around the log set and any exposed parts of the gas burner. Are Ventless Gas Fireplace Inserts Safe. One of the major benefits of installing a gas fireplace insert is that nearly all the parts can either be repaired or replaced. Prices can differ from the national average due to labor and installation fees, the price of the gas fireplace insert, and whether the insert is vented or unvented. The ability to warm a home is the ultimate goal of any good electric fireplace. If youre trying to save money on heating bills, it is important to check with a professional for advice on the best practices of using a gas fireplace. Measure the WidthMeasure the width of the front opening at both the top and the bottom.Measure across the back wall of the firebox at both the top and the bottom.If your firebox is angled, make additional measurements as needed. Completely demolishing your fireplace and chimney would cost $4,000 to $10,000. Minimal maintenance required: All you need is to keep it clean (similar to cleaning an oven) and do an annual checkup, which might cost $50 to $150.