The Ultimate Guide to Gas Fireplaces

A gas fireplace is an excellent option to efficiently heat your home, while creating a cosy and inviting atmosphere. Available in a range of different sizes and styles, there really is a gas fireplace designed to suit every home. However, before you purchase a gas fireplace, you will need to consider some things.

Let’s delve into some of our most  frequently asked questions below:

Are gas fireplaces efficient?:

Gas fireplace efficiency refers to the amount of energy converted into heat for the room and not wasted up the chimney. Over the years, there has been an increased awareness of the need to improve gas fireplace efficiency, with some gas fireplaces now offering an energy efficiency rating of up to 90%.

A glass-fronted gas fireplace is the most efficient  type of fireplace available, more heat is radiated through the  glass panel rather than being lost up the chimney. Most gas fireplaces that are manufactured are now designed with a glass front. Having an efficient fireplace is really important as it helps reduce energy costs in the long run, as a higher percentage of fuel is turned into usable heat.

If you would like any further information please contact our team on : 0208 868 7899

What are the different styles of gas fireplaces?:

There really are a plethora of choices when it comes to gas fires, from modern ‘Hole in the Wall gas fires’ to traditional inset gas fires, there is a style to suit every home decor. Modern gas  fires are stylish and compact, often intergrated into the wall and installed with a frame, to offer a convenient space saving solution, with the fuss of a fireplace surround, they are just effective as traditional inset gas fires and are often more efficient.

Whereas, ‘inset gas fires’ are more traditional in appearance, often installed with a fireplace surround, these types of fireplaces are designed to fit into a ‘standard fireplace opening’ or chimney usually with a cut out of 16 x 22”. These types of installations are usually seen in older properties, that have masonary chimney breasts.

Do I need a chimney?:

No, not necessarily. Our engineers can install a new gas fireplace even if you do not have a chimney breast!.

When you are browsing through our range have a look out  for ‘Balanced Flue’ models.

A balanced flue gas fire is a type of gas fire that draws in air from the outside. This type of fireplace eliminates the need for a chimney as the unit typically vents through an external wall. The balanced flue system maintains room air quality by preventing the entry of combustion gases into the living space, making it a popular choice for modern homes.

We’ve linked some of our most popular balanced flue models below:

Gazco Onyx Avanti Gas 85

DRU Global 100 Triple Sided Balanced Flue Gas Fire

If you do have a chimney breast however,  there are a few more options. These fireplaces are known as ‘conventional flue’, conventional chimneys rely on the natural circulation of heated air to expel the products of combustion up your chimney.

Who Installs them?:

When you are considering purchasing a gas fireplace, it is a important to factor in the complex installation process. It is essential that you seek professional advice, luckily at Rigby’s we offer a free home survey. Our team of experienced surveyors, can advise on the best fireplace that is suitable for you and your home.

At Rigby’,s we also provide a full gas fireplace installation service. All of our engineers are gas safety registered ensuring that your fireplace will be safely installed and signed off with the appropriate documents.

How much does a gas fireplace  cost?:

The cost of the fireplace will depend on the type of fireplace that you wish to have installed. Several other factors will influence the cost of installation such as the size of the opening, and  the labour required.Our traditional inset gas fires start from ‘£895’ inc. vat. Typically a gas fireplace installation can range from £2,000 – £5,000 inc.vat.

If you are unsure about any of our gas fires or would  like a quotation, please do not hesitate to contact us : 0208 868 7899

Installing a gas fire is a great investment and should be considered carefully,  whether you are looking to create a focal point, or need to add instant heat for a living room, a gas fireplace is a great choice.

These types of fireplaces are often easily operated via remote or slide control and require little to no maintenance in comparison to a traditional wood burning fireplace.

With this in mind, it is clear to see why it is a very popular choice with many homeowners. If you are interested in having a new gas fireplace installed in your home, please feel free to browse through our range of gas fireplaces