Benefits of Natural Gas Fireplaces | NW Natural Appliances

Benefits of Natural Gas Fireplaces in Portland, OR

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Why gas fireplaces and gas fireplace inserts?

At NW Natural Appliance Center, we care deeply about heating efficiency in your home. We believe that gas fireplaces, gas fireplace inserts, and freestanding gas stoves provide beauty and utility. They create a gathering place in the home and can also efficiently heat the area they are located in.  

In addition, they’re a way to effectively heat your main living space in the event of a power outage. Unlike a wood-burning stove or fireplace, a gas fireplace is started with a remote control or wall switch. No ax, kindling, or newspaper is required. 

Plus, since there’s no kindling, there’s no need to store wood and none of the mess from bugs, bark, ashes, and smoke in your home.

Can I heat my house with a gas fireplace?

Absolutely! Gas fireplaces are efficient and capable of heating a single room or your home’s main living space.

Can I change or rearrange logs?

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The “logs” in your gas fireplace are made to have a very natural and realistic appearance. The manufacturer of your gas fireplace, insert, or freestanding stove may offer a variety of log choices but their placement is not optional. It is predetermined as part of the testing and listing and any adjustments could affect the operation and void the warranty.

On the other hand, gas log sets can be purchased for existing wood-burning fireplaces. These offer more flexibility in style and arrangement, but are more for decor and provide little to no efficiency.

Is screen mesh required?

All gas fireplaces with glass fronts manufactured after 2014 must have a fireplace screen. This change was intended to increase the safety of gas fireplaces (which are already very safe!) by reducing the chances that a person will accidentally touch the hot glass front.

Do gas fireplaces work during a power outage?

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Just like a natural wood fire, your gas fireplace will continue to work during a power outage. Electricity is not needed. You’ll appreciate the warmth and convenience of a gas fireplace the next time the power goes out during a winter storm!

How much does it cost to run a gas fireplace?

Modern gas fireplaces are very efficient. Your exact cost will vary depending on the output of the fireplace (BTU) and the cost of natural gas per therm. A good rule of thumb is that a gas fireplace will cost about 30 cents per hour. But remember, when your gas fireplace is running, you’ll be less reliant on other heat sources which can be more expensive resulting in an overall net savings.

What are the most popular brands of gas fireplaces?

Ready to learn more?

Call us at (503) 220-2362 or contact us online to schedule an appointment to browse our selection of natural gas fireplaces and fireplace accessories. Our appliance specialists are ready to answer any questions you have!

NW Natural Appliance Center