In recent decades the sales of gas fireplaces, both natural gas fireplaces and propane gas fireplaces, 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 fireplace and the need for instant heat that needs no preparation and subsequent cleaning. Most modern gas fireplaces 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 propane gas fireplaces 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 propane gas fireplace:
• Top-Vented Propane Gas Fireplace - this type uses 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 propane gas fireplaces are ideal:
• Direct-vented Propane Gas Fireplace - 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 danger of fumes escaping into the living space are eliminated.
• Ventless Propane Gas Fireplace (or Vent Free Propane Gas Fireplace) - usually taking the form of a freestanding propane gas fireplace 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 propane gas fireplaces as well as ventless propane gas fireplaces 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.
Propane gas fireplaces come in a wide variety of designs, finishes and colours to fit into any room décor. From cast iron propane gas fireplaces 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 propane gas fireplaces 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. Propane has the added advantage that it can easily power indoor portable propane heaters as well as propane outdoor fireplaces and propane patio heaters.
