Home » Products » Inserts » Gas Inserts

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Gas Inserts

A gas insert turns an open fireplace, which takes more heat out of the home than it provides, into a highly efficient and easy to control heat source without losing the charm, ambiance, and comfort of a real wood fire. And there’s no mess!

In choosing a gas insert, be aware that there can be significant differences in the level of efficiency between one unit and another. Be sure to check the Canadian Energuide rating – anything over 60% is good. The top 25% on the market for energy efficiency will be designated as being Enerchoice.

Next, consider the maximum and minimum BTU (British Thermal Units), which measures how much heat the fireplace will deliver. A high of 24,000 – 30,000 BTU would be considered average, with some fireplaces going as high as 40,000 BTU or even higher. Many fireplaces will turn down to only 50% of their high BTU rating, despite the fact that many people would like to be able to operate their fireplace on “low”. Try to find a fireplace which is certified to operate on the lowest BTU possible.

Look at the flame pattern to make sure it is realistic and to your liking. In our experience this is a very personal choice so make sure you see the fireplace burning and don’t trust the pictures in the brochures! Consider also how the insert is controlled. Most are operated using some variety of a thermostatic remote control, which may or may not be offered as part of the purchase price. Some will only turn the unit on and off, others will modulate the flame up and down at a few discrete levels, while still others will provide a continuous up and down flame pattern. Increasingly remote controls will also operate the 110 volt fan, which will be offered as an option, as well as lighting and extinguishing the pilot light, should that feature be available on the unit in question.

No matter how you choose to control your unit, and whether or not you choose to add an electric fan, your gas insert will continue to be fully operational in the event of a power failure, providing a convenient and comforting source of heat where most other heating options have stopped operating.

When installed, the insert simply sits inside your masonry firebox, then a co-linear direct vent liner is run up your flue and a cap seals the unit at the top. By co-linear, we actually mean two liners – one for the combustion air, and one for exhaust. This system ensures that the insert always operates at peak efficiency. If you are replacing an older model insert, it may have a B-vent liner, meaning that it is exhaust only, and, unlike the direct vent version, the fireplace is not a sealed unit, getting its combustion air from the room.

Still not sure where to start? The experienced staff at Comox Fireplace & Patio can help you decide! We also offer installation services to Courtenay, Comox, Cumberland, Campbell River, and surrounding North Vancouver Island areas.