Written by Info Expert on February 15, 2010 | Posted in Home Improvement

With the improvement that the last few years have brought to gas fireplaces a lot of people are choosing this form of supplemental heat for their home. Today’s gas fires are more realistic than ever, the blue flame is gone and has been replaced by a flame and log that closely resemble a wood fire.

Perhaps you want to replace your old wood burning fireplace with an easier to use gas fireplace and thought that since there is already a flue installed the transformation would be easier and you could do it yourself. Or perhaps you are considering installing a ventless gas fireplace, because you have read that they do not require any difficult masonry work.

Without a doubt the fact that you already have all the hard work done will make your installation easier but not without some obstacles. You probably can save a fair amount of money by doing some of work yourself, like placing the insert in the space available following the manufacturer’s instructions. But, when it comes to installing the actual gas line to supply fuel to your gas fireplace then you should consult a professional.

Similarly a vent free gas fireplace although it is easy to install, and can be installed anywhere, requires the services of a licensed gas qualified plumber for piping in the fuel supply. The reason for this is that most communities regulate the installation of gas lines.

I would also recommend that you consult your gas fireplace specialist before buying your fireplace as some communities (California for example) have very strict restrictions for ventless fireplaces. Some communities have even banned them completely. Your fireplace specialist will know all the regulations applicable to your area.

Once the gas line is in place you are then free to do any of the work yourself, following manufacturers directions, and you will certainly save a lot of money doing so.

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