A fireplace in the home is one of the coziest treasures a family can enjoy. They offer a place to gather around and be warm while surrounded by a calm and comfortable ambiance.
Fortunately, today’s market options offer a plethora of choices when it comes to installing a new fireplace or upgrading an old one. The question is, which one should you choose?
Three of the most popular options are natural gas, wood, and propane fireplaces. We’re going to give you the pros and cons of each so you can better decide which one might be right for you.
Natural Gas Fireplaces
Efficient, easy to maintain, and often linked directly to your home’s natural gas piping, gas fireplaces act as a natural complement to the other working elements of the home. They can have a higher installation cost, but because of the way they contain heat within the home, you may save that money in the long run.
Gas Fireplace Pros:
- Modern designs to accommodate any space
- “Smooth” heat that is clean & natural
- Can be fitted inside most existing wood fireplaces
Gas Fireplace Cons:
- Often more expensive for the initial installation
- Requires annual service from a professional technician
- Smaller flame & less ambiance compared to a wood-burning fireplace
Wood Fireplaces
Wood-burning fireplaces provide the romantic setting we all imagine when we think of a fireplace. Crackling embers, incredible smells, and a charming ambiance. With this, however, comes a higher safety risk and more leg work to collect or purchase wood.
Wood Fireplace Pros:
- Sounds, aromas & sights of the natural wood burning
- Intense heat that radiates through the surrounding areas
- Highly decorative & traditional design
Wood Fireplace Cons:
- Can be expensive if you can’t source & chop your own wood
- Requires a chimney & flue, which both require extensive cleaning
- Embers & flames can reach or jump out into the surrounding areas
Propane Fireplaces
Relatively new, propane fireplaces are one of the cleanest burning options available on the market today. They’re safe, efficient, and require minimal upkeep. As long as you have the space for a propane tank, they can be installed virtually anywhere and are compatible with other gas fireplaces.
Propane Fireplace Pros:
- Clean burning fuel that produces an even, consistent heat
- Simple operation, usually just the push of a button
- Minimal maintenance, often only having to refill the propane periodically
Propane Fireplace Cons:
- Can’t change the log positions, similar to a natural gas fireplace
- Propane is more expensive to burn per hour compared to natural gas
- Flame burns blue, which can be dispiriting for someone who wants the natural look
Gas Fireplace Installation & Service
RB Heating ClimateCare has been the Kemptville community’s choice for fireplace installations, repairs, and service since 1992. We carry a wide range of products and have a team of experienced professionals ready to help you when you need it. Contact us today to learn more!
