With Lords Chimney, You Get a Quality Gas Appliance or Insert Installation Every Time – Guaranteed
Are you among those who desire the warmth and ambiance of a crackling fire? We’re happy to consult with you about what type of heating appliance will work best in your home. Whether you already have a fireplace that needs to be replaced or updated or you need an all-new fireplace or heating appliance, we can find just the right one and install it for you.
Just keep this important fact in mind – every heating appliance should be professionally installed so that you can be assured of proper venting and best efficiency results.
For reliable, high-quality service in the Houston and Beaumont areas, give the Lords Chimney team a call or reach out to us online today.
What Is the Difference Between a Gas Fireplace and a Gas Insert? What About Gas Logs? Or a Gas Stove?
You’ve decided – you definitely want some type of gas heating appliance. The hauling of wood and scooping of ash just isn’t the life for you. We get it. Now… What type of gas system is right for you?
Here’s where it can feel confusing – here in the industry we refer to gas logs, gas appliances, gas fireplace, gas inserts, gas stoves… Are they all the same? How are they all different?
Well, they’re not all the same. Here’s a quick rundown of them:
- Gas Fireplace: Gas fireplaces are self-contained all-in-one units. These don’t require a chimney and can be vented through the wall or ceiling of your home, which means you’ll have more options in terms of where they are placed in your living space.
- Gas Insert: A gas insert is designed to be placed inside of a masonry fireplace, so an existing fireplace and chimney is needed before installation. These are known for their high efficiency levels and are great for homeowners who have a fireplace that they aren’t putting to use – or who want to convert from wood-burning to gas.
- Gas Logs: Gas logs are what sit inside most gas fireplaces or inserts, meaning they’ll always come with the gas system you invested in (unless you use some other type of media, like stones or glass). That said, they can be used on their own, too, by being installed into an existing masonry fireplace. Realistic-looking and low maintenance, these offer a great way to heat your home with ease.
- Gas Stove: Stoves are freestanding appliances that are vented through a wall or ceiling and can be placed just about anywhere in a room. They offer great heat output, and they are ideal for those who don’t have any type of fireplace system in place already and who want to add a stylish focal point to their space.
So, what’s best for you? At Lords Chimney, we can help you through the process of picking the right unit, then getting it installed correctly. Then, after the fact, we’ll be sure to assist with any maintenance requirements you need. Get the best care in the Houston area by working with us for it all.
What’s Better – Fireplaces or Inserts?
So, here at Lords Chimney we specialize in installing both gas fireplace and gas inserts. We’ve gone over the main difference between the two, but which is better?
Well, it all depends on what you’re looking for and what heating appliance (if any) you already have in place. As stated above, a gas fireplace is a complete system, usually installed directly into an existing structure, like a wall. A gas insert, on the other hand, is designed to fit into an existing masonry or prefab wood-burning fireplace.
In addition, a gas insert typically has higher heating efficiency ratings than a gas fireplace, which is a huge draw for those looking to increase heat output. This is due to the units being literally “inserted” into the existing fireplace. This allows them to use the pre-existing masonry for additional reflection of heat, rather than relying solely on its own ability to produce warmth.
Another notable difference between the two types of fireplaces is their appearance. Inserts can come with different styles of trim that can be added for more aesthetic appeal. If you need something specific to match with your current decor, an insert may be the way to go.
Ultimately, though, both types of fireplaces provide warmth, but have differences when it comes to the installation process and design options – all of which should be taken into consideration before making your decision. If you need help weighing your options, our crew would be happy to assist.
Here’s a quick recap to help you along the process.
The Benefits Of A Fireplace Insert
- Gives new life to your existing masonry or factory-built fireplace opening
- Provides an extra source of warmth
- Installs quickly and easily
- Creates a cozy focal point in your home
- Adds value to your home
- Provides clean-burning and efficient heat
The Benefits Of A Gas Fireplace
- A constant heat supply
- Up to 25% energy savings
- No need to haul logs
- No sparks
- Easy to use, often operated by remote
- A variety of designs and styles to choose from
- No creosote and no chimney to have cleaned
And if it’s just a gas log set you need? We sell them and can tell you which ones are best for your appliance. We can also convert your existing wood-burning fireplace to gas. Whether you want a new fireplace or an upgraded one, a gas appliance or gas log installation, Lords Chimney is the company to meet and exceed all of your needs. Call 281-497-4000 or contact us online now.
What Are the Main Benefits of Heating With Gas Appliances?
- They’re easy to use. If you like to have full control over how much heat is entering your space, gas is definitely the fuel choice for you. These units are easily turned off/on, and they can easily be adjusted to pour less or more heat into your space.
- They’re versatile. Not only do gas systems come in a wide range of styles and size options, but they can be easily customized to exact specifications. Many also have options to switch out gas logs for different types of media, like colorful glass or sleek, modern-looking stones.
- They’re convenient. Gas logs don’t require you to stay crouched down trying to get flames going, no needing to get up off the couch and re-fuel, and no messy cleanup after the fact. If you want to be able to simply sit and enjoy your fireplace at the end of the day – without putting much effort into the process – this is the route to take.
- They’re highly efficient. Burning with wood offers those classic sounds and smells associated with burning a fire, but it’s also pretty unreliable in terms of heat output – and, let’s face it, you lose a lot of warmth right up and out of the chimney. Gas fireplaces are known for pouring heat into your space, so you stay warm and cozy, no problem.
- They help lower energy costs. Because they’re so efficient, gas fireplaces empower you to lower the temp on your thermostat and rely solely on your fireplace for heat. This is especially ideal when things cool down in the winter months – and when you’re trying to save any extra money for holiday shopping.
Do Gas Fireplaces Increase the Value of My Home?
Well, according to countless statistics and surveys, any fireplace can increase the value of your home. These are a hot item on many homebuyers’ wishlists, so if you have a well-working and well-kept fireplace system already in place, your property is sure to stand out from the rest.
Now, is gas better than wood? Well, we can’t say for sure what those looking at your home will prefer, but we can say that gas systems seem to grow in popularity with every passing year. They’re convenience and efficiency are simply unmatched, and because modern units look more realistic than ever, many feel this is the only way to go.
Just remember – while a professionally maintained fireplace might be a hot selling point, a broken down one is just the opposite. No one looking for a new home wants a project, so they’ll more likely opt for a home with a fireplace that’s looking good and immediately ready for use – as opposed to one that’s going to need a lot of time and money poured into it.
How Much Does It Cost to Install a Gas Fireplace Or Insert?
Well… let’s ask a few questions first. What size of fireplace do you need? Are you looking for something more traditional or more modern? Are you getting an insert or a full fireplace?
These questions – and more – are all going to affect the final cost of your appliance and its installation. That’s why giving a clear cut estimate on our site, without having spoken to you first, isn’t the best idea for anyone. Not only will it probably be inaccurate, but it will give you a false expectation, both things we want to avoid.
Here’s a better idea – give us a call and let us know exactly what you already have in place and exactly what you’re looking to accomplish. Once we speak with you and answer all necessary questions, we’ll be able to give you a better ballpark number in terms of cost.
Can I DIY Gas Fireplace Installation?
Well, we can’t tell you what you can and cannot do in your own home, but we certainly don’t recommend embarking on any DIY fireplace installation attempts.
The main reason for this? You’re dealing with heat and fire inside of your home. This isn’t something to take lightly, and it’s important to keep all the risks of improper use (and installation) in mind as you go about using your fireplace in the future.
Fireplaces, chimneys, and all the various parts that make them up are a lot more intricate than most people realize. It’s more than just a big tube sending smoke from your home. There are many components that need to be in place to ensure proper function and to prevent damage, and if just one issue is off, you could experience drafting issues, chimney fires, gas leaks, and more.
In addition to all that, even a “correct” DIY installation could wind up being wrong if proper coding and regulation requirements aren’t adhered to. And if you’re hoping to maintain any warranties, usually professional assistance is required for maintenance and installation.
When all is said and done, is it worth taking any chances? We don’t think so. Trust our experts for all of your fireplace and chimney needs from here on out.
Gas Fireplaces & Carbon Monoxide: What Are the Risks?
With wood-burning systems, creosote and chimney fires are some of the biggest threats you’ll potentially face. With gas, carbon monoxide leaks are the bigger worry.
What is carbon monoxide? It’s a highly poisonous gas known for causing unconsciousness, organ failure, and even death. Carbon monoxide tricks the body into thinking it’s breathing oxygen and can cause brain damage, to which children are particularly susceptible. This danger makes chimney maintenance and cleaning that much more important. Prevention is key.
What’s especially threatening about carbon monoxide, though, is that it’s silent in its approach. It doesn’t make sounds, it doesn’t give off any odors, and it has no color, so picking it up with any of your basic senses is next to impossible.
All too often, people won’t realize carbon monoxide is in their space until they start noticing the symptoms of it – like nausea, dizziness, headaches, confusion, shortness of breath, etc. Unfortunately, many times these are passed off as a mild illness, meaning the people in the home keep inhaling the gas until its effects are irreversible.
So, here’s what we suggest to ensure you avoid exposure:
- Always trust a professional for gas appliance installation.
- Make sure you have carbon monoxide detectors installed throughout your home.
- Be aware of symptoms of exposure.
- If you’re alerted to this gas in your space, leave immediately, then call the appropriate authorities.
- Invest in annual servicing of your gas appliances with a professional chimney technician.
- Never attempt DIY installation or repairs.
Let’s Get the Job Done Right – Call Lords Chimney Today
Folks who know about Lords Chimney will be sure to tell you that our technicians are exceptional, guaranteeing attention to detail and quality service. We invite you to join the Lords Chimney family of very satisfied customers by giving us a call at 281-497-4000 or request your next appointment online today.
Ask us about all the great fireplace accessories we offer as well as the installation services to make your fireplace the one you’re dreaming of.