I am looking to put in a NG fireplace in an area we built for it. The size is small so we need a slimline (16" / 36") unit. I went to the two fireplace places in town and each have an option, but their are pros and cons to each and I don't know enough about it to make the right choice. Any advice appreciated.
First I liked both stores, the price on each unit was within $100 and the install price was within $100 so basically there is NO price decision.
Fireplace 1:
Fireplace Extrordinair 564 SS
Pros:
Has a feature on the thermostat where it turns down flame rather then shutting off to maintain temperature
Nicer looking face option
Cons:
Lower BTU then other unit, tempered glass
Fire looks faker
Fireplace 2:
Heat n Glo SL-550TRS
Pros:
Good looking fire
Hotter, more BTU cermeric glass
Seems to be better brand
Cons:
Thermostat just turns off fire when temp reached.
This unit is not being used for primary heat but only to take the chill off in the room we use most 24x16 family room, so rest of house can be cooler.
If the heat n glo had the thermostat "cruise control" we would get that. But that seemed like a valuable feature to us. The saleman said you would just figure out what flame height and blower setting keeps it at the right temperature after some use and would not use thermostat.
What are other opinions on these fireplaces / brands / and options that I may be missing?
Thanks!
First I liked both stores, the price on each unit was within $100 and the install price was within $100 so basically there is NO price decision.
Fireplace 1:
Fireplace Extrordinair 564 SS
Pros:
Has a feature on the thermostat where it turns down flame rather then shutting off to maintain temperature
Nicer looking face option
Cons:
Lower BTU then other unit, tempered glass
Fire looks faker
Fireplace 2:
Heat n Glo SL-550TRS
Pros:
Good looking fire
Hotter, more BTU cermeric glass
Seems to be better brand
Cons:
Thermostat just turns off fire when temp reached.
This unit is not being used for primary heat but only to take the chill off in the room we use most 24x16 family room, so rest of house can be cooler.
If the heat n glo had the thermostat "cruise control" we would get that. But that seemed like a valuable feature to us. The saleman said you would just figure out what flame height and blower setting keeps it at the right temperature after some use and would not use thermostat.
What are other opinions on these fireplaces / brands / and options that I may be missing?
Thanks!