Q: What are the downsides of a gas fireplace?

• <div><p>Some people don&rsquo;t like the look of gas fireplaces since they don&rsquo;t offer the classic charm or appeal of a wood-burning fire. Plus, gas fireplace installation is more expensive than other types of fireplace installations due to the added complexity of working with gas lines. There&rsquo;s also a chance that gas could get into your home, which is a major health and safety risk.</p></div>

Question 1

Will my chimney have air vents?

Accepted Answer

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Your chimney comes with dampers, which are similar to air vents. Dampers are metal plates that allow hot air and smoke to flow from the fireplace up your chimney and out of your home. When you close the damper, it prevents cool air from getting into your home. This is why you’ll want to check to make sure your damper is open before starting your fireplace and you want to ensure it’s closed after the fire goes out. You can open and close them via an external knob, pull chain, or lever.

Question 2

Can I use water to put out a fire in my fireplace?

Accepted Answer

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You should only use water to put out a fire in your fireplace in an emergency situation. Even then, it is better to use a fire extinguisher to put out a fire quickly. Make sure every room in your house that has a fireplace also has a fire extinguisher—and that everyone in your household knows how to use one.

Question 3

How tall does a chimney need to be for an outdoor fireplace?

Accepted Answer

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The height of the chimney for your outdoor fireplace depends on where the fireplace is located. Ideally, the chimney should be 2 to 3 feet higher than surrounding structures; this allows smoke to ventilate properly without endangering anyone or anything.

Note: Your municipality may have strict requirements regarding chimney heights, so it’s always a good idea to check local building codes.

Question 4

Is a chimney cap necessary?

Accepted Answer

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Chimney caps are necessary both from a building safety standpoint in most municipalities and to keep your home protected from a variety of issues. Chimney caps are not only mandated by building code in most areas, but they also serve to keep squirrels, raccoons, and other pests out of your home, as well as snow and rain. Therefore, they help to avoid property damage, making them a worthwhile investment.

Question 5

What are the downsides of a gas fireplace?

Accepted Answer

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Some people don’t like the look of gas fireplaces since they don’t offer the classic charm or appeal of a wood-burning fire. Plus, gas fireplace installation is more expensive than other types of fireplace installations due to the added complexity of working with gas lines. There’s also a chance that gas could get into your home, which is a major health and safety risk.