Clear And Unbiased Gas Fireplace Conversion Facts

If you want to change your wood burning fireplace to a natural gas fireplace conversions are an easy subject to get confused on; there’s a lot of competing discussion about their pluses and minuses.

That’s why we’ve put together this simple guide, some clear and unbiased facts about gas fireplace conversion without all the hype. With this info in mind, you’ll be able to make an informed choice about whether a gas fireplace conversion is right for you:

• Expected Cost
• Requirements
• Considerations

Gas Fireplace Conversions Cost $6k To $14k

Understandably, the first thing a lot of people want to know about gas fireplaces is how much it will set them back. Well, for good, effective models, prices range from $6,000.00 at the lowest end to $14,000.00 at the highest. It might seem like a lot, but it’s not unremarkable in the context of serious, meaningful home investments, which a gas fireplace is.

The presence of one in a home adds a nice amount on to its value, and in the long term you’ll hopefully save money on your heating bills from not being so reliant on a furnace. There’s no way round the fact that it’s a sizable outlay of cash, but ultimately you get what you pay for.

Gas Fireplace Conversions Require Permits

Unfortunately, it’s not quite as simple as just saving up the cash, buying the fireplace, and keeping yourself warm. Gas fireplaces require permits to render their installation legal. The process for getting one varies from place to place, so it’s important to look online or get in touch with your local authorities to figure out what you have to do where you are.

It’s frustrating, but gas fireplaces could cause problems if used irresponsibly, and the permit system ensures they’re only in the hands of people who know how to use them safely. Hopefully, it will only involve a form or two.

Hire An Expert Contractor That Is Fully Licensed

Gas fireplaces are not really a D.I.Y job. It hopefully will not surprise you to learn that gas can be quite dangerous, and for that reason you’ll need to bring in outside help to get most of the job done. When searching for companies to help you install your fireplace, there are two things you’ve got to remember.

Once is to check whether they’re licensed- if they aren’t, you don’t really have any way of knowing whether they’re qualified for this very serious job. The other is to ask about their insurance. In the unlikely event that something goes wrong, it will be sorely needed. Key take away’s:

• It’s a pretty substantial initial investment
• You will have to hire a licensed contractor with insurance
• This contractor has to pull the proper permits
• It will be inspected by the building officials
• Expect 2-5 days for the entire process including inspections and gas pressure tests.

Gas fireplace conversions won’t work for everyone. They’re not a breeze to install, their price point can be prohibitive, and that’s without considering the extra expense of hiring someone to get them working for you. Nonetheless, their style, relative energy efficiency, and ability to heat rooms quickly makes them still an attractive option in spite of their short comings.