So many people dream of having a fireplace in their home. Usually, when you picture a fireplace, you think of logs burning in a chamber. But today, there is another type of fireplace that is becoming more common: the gas fireplace. Gas fireplaces are not for everyone, but they do have some benefits (and drawbacks) that you should weigh carefully as you begin shopping.
Pro: Gas fireplaces are cleaner.
When you burn wood, there is a lot of ash and soot produced. You will need to periodically clean the ash out of the fireplace, which can get messy. You also have to worry about soot buildup in the chimney, which can become a hazard if left uncleaned. Gas fireplaces burn very, very cleanly. You never have to clean up soot or ash, so you'll have more time left to just relax and enjoy the fireplace.
Con: Gas does not give off that woodsy odor.
For some people, part of the enjoyment of having a fireplace in your home is the nice, wood-burning odor you get to experience while the fire burns. Gas fireplaces do not give off this scent, so if the smell is a big factor for you, a gas fireplace may not be your ideal choice.
Pro: Gas fireplaces don't require you to store wood.
When you have a traditional, wood-burning fireplace, keeping stocked up with wood is always a challenge. You need to find somewhere to store it, and then you have to carry it inside your home. Wood suppliers are hard to come by in some areas, and if there is a shortage of wood, you may end up paying an arm and a leg — or just not being able to use your fireplace. A gas fireplace can be connected to your natural gas supply, so you have a continuous supply of fuel, and you don't have to worry about storing it.
Con: Gas fireplaces can put you at risk for gas leaks.
Whenever you have a gas appliance of any sort in your home, there is a potential for hazardous gas leaks. Of course, you can minimize this risk by having the fireplace professionally installed, and having it inspected once a year. Still, it is a risk to be aware of. Wood-burning fireplaces come with other risks, but not the risk of a gas leak.
To learn more about gas-burning fireplaces, and also about their wood-burning comrades, reach out to a fireplace company near you.
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