- Nov 27, 2012
- 0
Question:
We've recently bought a home in Woodbridge- Virginia and will be here for 3-4 years. The house has a finished basement which serves as the family room and is where we spend most of our time. There is currently no fireplace in the house- and the gas central heating doesn't heat the basement sufficiently. We have been considering getting a direct vented gas log fireplace installed as we have enjoyed traditional wood burning fireplaces in the past. The reason we are considering gas over wood is I believe (without estimates) the cost of having a traditional wood fireplace with chimney installed would be significantly higher. We are also thinking about just getting an electric or propane space heater. Since we're only here for a short time- we wouldn't be able to recover the cost of installing a fixed gas system regarding the difference between the monthly gas versus electric (space heater) bills. If you already have Natural Gas in the home- it would be good to get a gas unit. If you don't- look at LP gas. However- I do know a fixed gas system would add to the value of our home - but haven't yet questioned my realtor to see how much. What is your personal opinion on the space heater versus direct vented gas? Also- what's the scoop on electric versus propane space heaters?
Answer:
1. A Gas Fireplace will add about $2500. to the value
2. Direct Vent is great- and will keep you warm plus provide the heat. LP or natural gas will be MUCH cheaper than electric and put out many more BTU's
3. Electric is 3 times the cost . There are also direct vent "Stoves" that could be taken with you to the next home- and also install with less building work than a fireplace..check these out. Also- if you are not going to use it a lot- and unvented stove or fireplace may be an option.
We've recently bought a home in Woodbridge- Virginia and will be here for 3-4 years. The house has a finished basement which serves as the family room and is where we spend most of our time. There is currently no fireplace in the house- and the gas central heating doesn't heat the basement sufficiently. We have been considering getting a direct vented gas log fireplace installed as we have enjoyed traditional wood burning fireplaces in the past. The reason we are considering gas over wood is I believe (without estimates) the cost of having a traditional wood fireplace with chimney installed would be significantly higher. We are also thinking about just getting an electric or propane space heater. Since we're only here for a short time- we wouldn't be able to recover the cost of installing a fixed gas system regarding the difference between the monthly gas versus electric (space heater) bills. If you already have Natural Gas in the home- it would be good to get a gas unit. If you don't- look at LP gas. However- I do know a fixed gas system would add to the value of our home - but haven't yet questioned my realtor to see how much. What is your personal opinion on the space heater versus direct vented gas? Also- what's the scoop on electric versus propane space heaters?
Answer:
1. A Gas Fireplace will add about $2500. to the value
2. Direct Vent is great- and will keep you warm plus provide the heat. LP or natural gas will be MUCH cheaper than electric and put out many more BTU's
3. Electric is 3 times the cost . There are also direct vent "Stoves" that could be taken with you to the next home- and also install with less building work than a fireplace..check these out. Also- if you are not going to use it a lot- and unvented stove or fireplace may be an option.
