As the temperature drops, lots of people here in Eastern North Carolina look forward to enjoying a cozy fire in their fireplace.
However, if you’re tired of dealing with the mess and work of a wood-burning fireplace or want to upgrade to a gas fireplace, Tidewater Energy’s team of gas appliance experts can assist you. We sell top-quality Heatmaster gas fireplaces and provide safe and expert natural gas and propane fireplace installation as well as gas log installation.
We’ll assist you in choosing the best propane fireplace and gas logs for your home. Once your new fireplace is installed, we’ll help make sure that it runs safely and efficiently with regular gas fireplace maintenance and repair services.
Gas fireplaces come in two types: vent-free and direct-vent.
If you’re trying to choose which fireplace works for your home, the team here at Tidewater Energy is here to help you look over your options.
Wood-burning fireplaces: Wood-burning fireplaces offer cozy ambiance, with the crackling sound of burning wood and the warm, flickering glow of the flames. Additionally, they can serve as an effective source of heat, especially during power outages. However, wood-burning fireplaces come with notable drawbacks, including the need for constant maintenance, such as cleaning ash and soot, having the chimney regularly swept, and the labor of sourcing or chopping firewood. They can also contribute to air pollution along with unhealthy indoor air and are less energy-efficient compared to gas or electric alternatives.
Propane gas fireplaces: Propane gas fireplaces have become a favorite among homeowners for their many benefits. Offering a clean and efficient heating solution, they produce significantly fewer emissions than traditional wood-burning fireplaces. Their convenience is unmatched, igniting with the simple push of a button and eliminating the hassle of wood storage and ash cleanup. Propane fireplaces also deliver consistent, reliable heat and can often be installed in a wide range of spaces, even in homes without existing chimneys.
Propane gas fireplace inserts: Propane gas fireplace inserts are a great choice for anyone looking for convenience and efficiency. For starters, they’re energy efficient. Also, propane burns cleaner than wood and creates less pollution, which is a win for the environment. They provide steady, reliable heat, even if the power goes out, so you’ll stay cozy no matter what. Unlike traditional wood-burning fireplaces, propane inserts are low-maintenance—no chopping wood or cleaning up ashes here! You also get precise temperature control, which means more comfort and lower energy bills. With their practicality, eco-friendliness, and ease of use, propane inserts are a modern way to keep your home warm and inviting.
Electric fireplaces and inserts: Electric fireplaces easy to install, and require minimal maintenance since there’s no need for wood, ash cleanup, or chimney upkeep. However, electric fireplaces do have their limitations. They lack the authentic charm of a crackling fire and the natural heat output of a wood-burning or gas fireplace. Furthermore, their operation depends on electricity, which can be a disadvantage during power outages.
Wood-burning fireplaces
Propane gas fireplaces
Propane gas fireplace inserts
Electric fireplaces and inserts
When it comes right down to it, propane gas fireplaces and inserts offer many advantages over your other options.
Gas fireplaces come in two main types: vent-free and direct-vent. Choosing the right one depends on your needs as well as local codes and regulations, and we’re here to guide you with confidence and clarity.
It’s important to note that vent-free fireplaces and gas logs cannot be installed in bedrooms or enclosed spaces like bathrooms, as their exhaust is released into the room instead of outdoors. Before making a purchase, always check your local regulations—some municipalities restrict vent-free fireplaces or gas logs entirely.
Your fireplace type—whether direct-vent or vent-free—also determines the type of gas logs you’ll need. Choosing the right setup is key to ensuring safety, efficiency, and satisfaction.
With our proven expertise, we’ll help you create a cozy, safe, and efficient living space you can enjoy for years to come.
A gas log includes piping and a set of logs that can be made of refractory ceramic, ceramic fiber or refractory cement. These logs are available in various sizes to fit different types of fireplaces and in styles that imitate actual wood, ranging from classic oak to rustic pine to coastal driftwood.
Gas logs are a better option for heating than electric fireplaces, since they can generate up to three times more heat than a comparable electric model. Additionally, they can be customized to create the look of a wood-burning fireplace and add a cozy atmosphere.
It’s important to match the size of your gas logs with the size of your fireplace to maintain a proportional look. If the logs are too big, they will appear out of place. On the other hand, if the logs are too small, they will look inadequate. This may bother you in either case.
When choosing the size of your new gas logs, it is important to consider performance and safety. This means leaving extra space on the sides to allow for free air circulation and to prevent the gas valve from overheating.
In order for us to assist you in selecting the appropriate size of gas logs for your fireplace, please take four measurements: the front width, the back width, the depth, and the opening height. This should be done before you begin shopping for gas logs.
Safety — Although the smell of woodsmoke may be pleasing, it poses health risks due to the fine particulate matter it contains. This can lead to an increased risk of heart attack and respiratory problems. However, with cleaner-burning propane and natural gas, you won’t have such concerns.
Environmental friendliness — Burning wood gives off 28 pounds of smog-producing particulate emissions per million Btu’s of heat output, which is much more than the emissions produced by gas combustion. Therefore, switching to propane or natural gas can significantly reduce your carbon footprint.
Ease — If you have an existing fireplace, great! A gas fireplace insert, either direct-vent or vent-free, can be installed in a masonry fireplace. Adding a masonry fireplace if you don’t already have one can cost tens of thousands of dollars, and you will be living in a dusty, messy construction zone for weeks. Gas fireplaces, on the other hand, can be installed in a day or two.
Design — With a propane fireplace, you can choose where you want it, whether it’s the family room, the dining room or your bedroom. There are styles of fireplaces and gas logs to fit every home.
Tidewater Energy is Eastern North Carolina’s leader for expert and safe natural gas and propane fireplace maintenance , installation and repair services. Contact us today for a FREE estimate on adding one to your home!
