Frequently Asked Questions

A gas insert is a type of gas fireplace. Inserts are designed to be installed (inserted into) existing woodburning fireplaces. They are easy to operate and provide efficient heat even when the power is out.

These are also called built-in fireplaces. They are designed to be framed into remodeling or new construction projects. Direct Vent technology makes it easy to add a beautiful fire and the efficient warmth of a gas fireplace.

Along with the byproducts of combustion that are released into the home, ventless fireplaces produce lots of water vapor which can be as much as 1 gallon every 3 hours leading to mildew and mold issues. Direct vent fireplaces vent moisture and byproducts of combustion to the outside of the home.

Most gas fireplaces use electricity for ignition or blower operation. The good news is that gas fireplaces are also designed to work when the power is out with a built-in battery backup using regular household batteries.

A gas log set is a decorative gas burner with logs. The flame is very realistic and there are many log styles to choose from including choices that are not logs at all (such as spheres and crushed glass). Different than gas inserts, they are not efficient – most of the heat is lost up the chimney.

Manufacturers suggest annual service for gas fireplaces. As a backup heat source in the event of a power outage, this helps to ensure your unit is in working order when you most need it.

Most modern fireplaces have battery backup systems – it is important to understand how to use this feature and have the proper sized batteries on hand so that you are prepared in the event of a power outage.

This issue could be a range of things, the simpler ones being the remote needs fresh batteries, or the gas for the fireplace was inadvertently turned off. Our helpful Service Team can help you troubleshoot any such issues.

The remote may need fresh batteries or it may need to be resynced with module.

Batteries can last two to three months depending on if the remote is being used in the on/off mode or in the thermostat mode (where it is constantly communicating).

The glass likely needs cleaning; when fireplaces first light there is condensation which leaves behind residue. Fireplace glass conditioner is a good cleanser and it makes it easier to clean the next time.

New fireplaces require that they are cured and should be burned on high without the fan and with the windows in the home open for period of time based on the manufacturers’ instructions. It could also be that the chimney was not cleaned prior to install.

No, the fireplace is tested and listed with the system it was shipped with. Any alterations will void the warranty and lead to safety concerns.

The fireplace is only approved to use the logs that it came with, adding other logs will lead to operational issues including sooting. There are manufactures that offer more than one log choice for their fireplaces – in that case, it may be possible to purchase an optional set.

We do sell a line of custom and semi-custom fireplaces with a variety of shapes and sizes possible. We also have custom surrounds available for gas inserts installed in woodburning fireplaces.

According to the National Association of Real Estate Appraisers, adding a fireplace to home can increase the resale value of the home by as much as 6-12 percent.

Stainless grates are easier to clean, are very durable, and heat up faster. Cast iron grates require more maintenance especially in the PNW where they are subject to rust. They also take longer to warm up but provide even heat and have natural non-stick properties. Cast Stainless can be the best of both worlds.

Ceramic infrared burners reach over 1000-degree temperatures (on average, double the capacity of a standard burner) and are great for searing all types of meat, seafood, and vegetables. It is common to also have a standard burner to either finish or do a part of a reverse sear process.

Yes, but it is important to review the manufacturer’s guidelines in the manual as well as local codes. There are commonly overhead, sidewall, and combustible floor clearance restrictions as well as ventilation requirements (the number of sides of the structure that are required to be open for proper air flow).

We recommend that you use the manufacturer’s approved media or other fire rated after-market products. Use of improper media can be dangerous.

Gas fire tables are tested and listed as decorative appliances and are not approved for cooking. That being said, it is not uncommon for people to cook marshmallows over the flame. It is important to keep the media and gas ports clean.

Proper design and location are important. Patio heaters are susceptible to wind and wind turbulence.

Indoor fireplaces need to be cleaned and serviced annually. Outdoor fireplaces, depending on weather, leaves, needles, and moisture should be inspected and cleaned frequently.

Dual fuel ranges are designed for those who want the responsive, hands-on experience of an open flame on the stovetop, but also prefer the dry, even heat of an electric oven as well as convection cooking.

Induction cooktops and induction ranges work by generating an electromagnetic field below the glass cooktop surface, which causes magnetic cookware sitting on top to heat up. Chefs and home cooks prefer gas for responsiveness and visual gauge of temperature via view of the flame height. Gas cooktops also provide backup cooking in the event of a power outage.

A convection oven is an oven that has fans to circulate air around food to create an evenly heated environment. The increased air circulation causes a fan-assisted oven to cook food faster than a conventional non-fan oven, which relies only on natural convection to circulate the hot air.

Yes, both gas cooktops and ranges are available with downdraft.

Yes, it is important to follow the manufacturer’s directions for clearances adjacent to your cooktop or range. Also, there are requirements for ventilation hood clearances both from the maker of the hood as well as the manufacturer of the appliance.

No, the fuel type is designated by the manufacturer and there is not an approved or safe means to make this kind of conversion.

Yes, most local codes require ventilation for cooking appliances, whether gas or electric.

Every 3 months. More frequently with heavy use or less frequently depending on use and types of food cooked.

If they are vented to the outside, they can be effective, but generally move less air than a dedicated hood. Charcoal types that aren’t vented to the outside are not very effective.

The main benefits of drawer dishwashers are that they provide flexibility and energy savings for households where it may be a while before they are ready to run a full load. The upper drawer also offers the convenience of not having to bend low to load the dishwasher.

Propane is manufactured gas that is pressurized. It is also heavier than air which means that it requires additional caution when using it. Propane and Natural Gas appliances are not interchangeable without a conversion by an expert and some manufacturers do not permit conversion of one to the other.

Yes, we have financing available through Wells Fargo.

You can pay your utility bill online, by phone, by mail, or in person at a number of local retailers. Here is a link that provides additional information:

https://www.nwnatural.com/account/pay-my-bill

Yes, we have off-street, free parking with 10 spots in the front of our store and additional parking behind the building.