In recent decades the sales of gas stoves, both natural gas stoves and propane gas stoves, have grown enormously. This has come about partly because it has become clear just how much heat is lost up the chimney from a traditional wood stove and the need for instant heat that needs no preparation and subsequent cleaning. Most modern gas stoves are designed to burn either natural gas or propane, emit minimal pollution, require little maintenance and are flexible enough to be installed almost anywhere. To produce the effect of a real open fire today's gas stoves feature realistic flames, logs and glowing red embers and offer heat security by not relying on electricity for their operation.
There are three basic types of modern gas stove:
• Top-Vented Gas Stove - this type use an existing chimney, the only modifications needed being the installation of an approved chimney liner, usually 4-5 inches in diameter and made of stainless-steel.
Where no chimney or vent is available then the next two types of gas stoves are ideal:
• Direct-vented Gas Stove - this type utilise a hole put through the wall to the outside directly behind or just above the appliance. The vent is double lined; in that the outer lining brings air in from the outside for the combustion of the gas, whilst the inner vent allows the exhaust gases to escape. As a result any dangers of fumes escaping into the living space are eliminated.
• Ventless Gas Stove (or Vent Free Gas Stove) - usually taking the form of a freestanding gas stove these units allow total heating freedom but do raise some safety concerns as they do vent exhaust gases into the room. It is important to make sure that the appliance comes fitted with an oxygen depletion sensor (ODS) that will cut the gas supply if oxygen levels fall dangerously low.
The heat delivery from these direct vent gas stoves as well as ventless gas stoves is controlled by the use of a wall thermostat although remote control devices are available. Other features include variable speed blowers and glass doors that radiate the heat and allow a full view if the fire. Adjustable heat output and flame heights are also available.
Gas stoves come in a wide variety of designs, finishes and colours to fit into any room décor. From cast iron gas stoves and gas burning pot belly stoves of traditional design through Colonial to modern designs, manufacturers use textured metals and high-gloss enamel paint as well as stone or wood panel inserts upon legs or pedestal support.
Looking at the range of gas stoves from certain manufacturers such as Jotul gas stoves it is clear that they produce both natural gas stoves and propane gas stoves based on their traditional cast iron wood stoves. Giving the feel of an antique gas stove they come with remote control, optional thermostat, a wide variety of venting options, low clearance allowing easier installation and a heating output of up to 40000 BTU's. Another manufacturer; Soapstone Franklin produce gas stoves from cast iron and soapstone and assert that their propane gas stove models operating with a standard 125 gallon propane tank will be able to heat a home for 10-14 days and up to 30 days with use of a thermostat.
