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Gas fireplaces usually last an average of 20 years, so anywhere from 15 to 25 years is standard in terms of lifespan. If your fireplace is 15 years or older, it might be a good idea to call a fireplace repair technician to inspect the unit and make any necessary repairs. Preemptive repairs will go a long way in extending the fireplace’s lifespan. You could get 30 or more years out of your gas fireplace if you keep up with maintenance and repairs.

Beyond having an inspection, it’s important to do chimney maintenance at least annually to be certain the chimney is safe to use. Cleaning the flue of any built-up particles, creosote, and soot reduces the risk of fire. Fortunately, the cost of hiring a pro to do a chimney inspection often includes a chimney cleaning, so you may not have an extra expense for maintenance.

Although no heating appliance can be entirely risk-free, a fireplace insert is considered a safer alternative to a traditional open fireplace, thanks to their enclosed design. With a sealed combustion chamber, a fireplace insert effectively reduces the risk of sparks and embers escaping into the room, minimizing the chance of an accidental fire.

Additionally, an insert comes equipped with various safety features, such as tempered glass doors that create a barrier between the flames and the surrounding space. This enhances both safety and energy efficiency by preventing heat loss. As an added bonus, many inserts are designed to meet strict safety standards that ensure proper ventilation and combustion.

While wood stove fans are effective for improving heat distribution, they rely on the stove reaching a certain temperature to operate efficiently. If the stove does not generate enough heat, the fan may not start or may not move air effectively. Additionally, like any fan, wood stove fans cannot cool a stove or reduce its heat output—they only redistribute existing warmth.