Gas Fireplaces

A gas fireplace is a cost-effective option for keeping a home warm in New Zealand and offers several benefits. Unlike wood fireplaces, gas fireplaces provide uninterrupted heating through a continuous gas supply, eliminating the need for logs and the associated storage space and maintenance. This also protects the home from infestations by pests inhabiting wood stockpiles. Gas fireplaces are easy to operate and maintain, requiring only a knob turn to start, with no ash or dust to clean up and no need for chimney checks. They provide better heating with an internal blower that ensures consistent heat flow, and modern models can be controlled remotely via phone or tablet to warm up the home while the homeowner is away. Additionally, gas fireplaces are safer for children, pets, and adults, as they produce no sparks or burning pieces of wood. An indoor gas fireplace can provide room heating without the ash and wood storage associated with a solid-fuel fire.

Vented gas fireplaces use existing infrastructure to eliminate any gasses produced, making them ideal for homeowners in New Zealand who don't want to remodel. They offer a convenient heating solution while preserving the home's structure.

A direct-vent gas fireplace vents combustion gases directly outside through a sealed pipe, drawing in fresh air from the outside for combustion. This design ensures efficient heating and eliminates the need for a traditional chimney, making installation safer and more flexible.

A vent-free fireplace is the most convenient of the bunch, as you can install one anywhere in the house. It can be downstairs, upstairs, in a room, or the hall. It doesn't need a ventilation system going directly out. 

Inbuilt gas fireplaces are permanent fixtures installed directly into the wall and come in various styles. They have features like remote control operation and adjustable flame height. In contrast, a gas fire insert is a self-contained unit designed to fit into an existing fireplace opening.

To choose a gas fireplace, consider the type (direct vent, vented, or vent-free) based on your home's ventilation and installation needs. Determine the size and heating capacity by matching the fireplace's kilowatts (KW) to your space, which is the unit used to measure heat. Select a style that complements your decor and assess installation requirements, ensuring you have access to a gas line. Prioritise high-efficiency models and decide between natural gas or propane. Ensure safety features like oxygen depletion sensors and cool-to-touch glass are included, and verify compliance with local codes. Look for modern controls and technology like remote controls and smart home integration. Set a budget considering the fireplace, installation costs, and any home modifications needed. Compare different brands and models for value, and check the manufacturer's warranty and customer reviews for reliability and support. Match the output of a gas fireplace heater to the room size and insulation levels. For an apartment fireplace or a corner gas fireplace, check the flue route, clearances and available wall space before confirming the layout. If the property uses LPG, confirm whether the selected appliance is suitable for a gas bottle fireplace installation.

There are many options when selecting a type of fireplace that works best for your home. A bioethanol fireplace comes with the standout feature of custom flame designs for those who want a more unique fireplace. On the other hand, a wooden fireplace is perfect if you enjoy a more traditional aesthetic and something that can provide more heat than modern models. Alternatively, if you want a fireplace with no cleanup, an electric fireplace is ideal.