Fuels ABOUT THE FUELS - . INTRODUCTION TO GAS FUEL AND APPLIANCES

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webfish

Hearth.com LLC
Staff member
Oct 18, 2013
1,822
Minnesota
Of all the non-renewable fossil fuels (Gas, Coal, Oil), Natural Gas is the cleanest burning.

Environmental Outlook—Gas

Of all the nonrenewable fossil fuels (Gas, Coal, Oil), Natural Gas is the cleanest burning. The United States’ supply of Gas is mostly homegrown and the production and distribution of this fuel is quite clean. On the down side, there is only a limited amount of Natural Gas on the earth, so we should use it efficiently and leave some for the future generations.

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Image courtesy of graur codrin at FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Types of Gas Products

Gas Stoves-Freestanding

Who would have ever thought that we’d have Gas stoves that look AND heat just like wood stoves? The biggest difference is that they turn on with the flick of a switch or the turn of a thermostat. These stoves are available in many sizes, styles and colors. Three venting options are available, Direct-Vent, B-Vent and Unvented.

Gas Fireplace Inserts

These are decorative units which install into your existing masonry or pre-fab fireplace. They have large glass viewing windows with glowing ceramic logs that simulate a wood fire. A substantial amount of heat is produced which can help to heat your living areas. Most newer gas inserts are Direct Vent, which means that a two-pipe system is used to vent the exhaust gases and also bring fresh air into the unit.

Gas Logs

These are decorative logs with burners and safety controls that are designed to convert a wood burning fireplace to gas. They are available in different sizes and styles. Most gas logs are designed for style and convenience and are not used as room or home heaters. An exception are unvented gas logs. These logs are extremely efficient and can act as a temporary backup source of heat.


Gas Fireplaces

Hearth Retailers carry a large selection of gas fireplaces. They are available in all three basic types, Direct Vent, No Vent and Natural (B-Vent). Direct vent gas fireplaces need no chimney, only a vent directly through a wall behind the fireplace or stove. Unvented fireplaces are even more versatile—they requires no chimney or vent at all. Natural (B-Vent) vent gas fireplaces have to be vented up through the roof with low cost class class B chimney pipe.

Maintenance—Gas

Gas Stoves, Inserts and Fireplaces require less service than any other hearth products. Consult the owners manual for any maintenance which may be specific to your unit.

How long will they last?—Gas Products should last for many years. It is possible that some of the ceramic logs and embers may have to be replaced after a few years. Thermocouples, controls and blowers may also need repair or replacement after many years of service. You can find some torubleshooting and educational information in the Gas Section here and at our Q&A at: QA HEARTH
 
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