Despite being inefficient, wood fireplaces continue to be prized for their elegance and ambiance. Since this is unlikely to change, a gas fireplace serves a happy medium between an auxiliary central heating system and the beauty of a crackling fire. Consider the following benefits of converting a wood fireplace to a gas insert.

Reasons to Switch to a Gas Fireplace

1. Efficiency

A traditional wood-burning fireplace is one of the least effective ways to heat a modern home, hovering at around 30% efficiency. Switching to gas ensures that 75-98% of the energy is converted into heat. You lose hard-earned money every year from a masonry chimney’s inefficiency.

2. Cost

Switching to a different heating system can be expensive, but when you compare the cost of running a wood fireplace to gas, you’ll save money within the first year. Any wood burning stove needs proper ventilation, a strong foundation, and frequent cleaning. However, gas fireplaces can be installed into any room—no chimney required—and save money on wood and chimney sweeping.

3. Safety

Wood fireplaces come at a high risk of fire accidents because the active flame can ignite nearby items if the homeowner isn’t careful. Soot can also become an issue if the chimney isn’t cleaned enough. Gas is safe, and newer gas furnaces come equipped with a shut-off valve that prevents gas from leaking into the house.

4. Cleanliness

Soot will stick to anything porous, meaning couches and clothing will smell of fire at all times. Although this may seem pleasant, it means your home isn’t as clean as it should be. You also need to spend a significant amount of time either cleaning the chimney yourself or calling someone to do it for you. Hauling wood into the house could bring unwanted guests, like bugs and rodents, but a gas fireplace has none of these issues as it emits little to no soot and requires no wood to burn.

If your traditional heating system suffers from any of the issues above, contact the experts at Fireplace Creations, LLC, in Buffalo, MN. For over 20 years, their experienced technicians have served their community by installing and repairing fireplaces. Along with gas, they also install electric and more efficient wood-burning designs. Call (763) 682-4262 to schedule an appointment, or visit them online to learn more about their products.