Choosing a gas insert

11 years ago

We are looking for a gas insert to convert our wood burning fireplace. It will direct vent up the chimney with a liner. It's a small opening 32 x 23.5 inches, so that might limit the selection. There is already a gas log starter and easy access to electric.

We looked at a Regency and a Heat and Glo unit. It's not the only source of heat in the room, so I'm not that concerned about BTU's other than our clearance between the box and the wood trim on the top edge of the fireplace. We would like a thermostat remote control option.

What do people recommend and how much should we expect to pay for a more traditional unit with brick back and "wood" log set rather than the stones?

Comments (3)

mom2sah
11 years ago
Your "wants/needs" list sounded exactly like ours. We just got a Fireplace Xtrordinair DVS GSR gas insert (to replace our wood burning fireplace) last week and love it! The logs look great (traditional but yet we didn't want a huge, towering stack look) and it has a wall-mountable thermostat/remote.

Our "out the door" cost including labor was $3,650. We did not upgrade the face which could have added several hundred dollars more.
ACHiPo
9 years ago
We are also trying to decide between gas insert options, or maybe put in gas logs and doors. The fireplace already has a gas starter, and there is an outlet next to the fireplace (but obviously not in the firebox), so I'm not sure how hard wiring would be.

We've looked at Mendota, but have serious sticker shock and don't think we need that much heat (it's primarily for ambiance and to take the chill off on cold evenings). Heat&Glo was recommended by a local dealer, but we haven't seen one in person yet.

Lisa, which direction did you go and have you been happy? Mom2SF, are you still happy with your choice after a couple years?

Thanks!
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lisa98112
Original Author
9 years ago
We ended up with the Heat and Glo and have been happy with our choice. It provides enough heat and fits with the style of the house. We opted for the remote and it is worth every penny. I set it to 70 degrees and the unit runs until it reaches that and shuts off, so it doesn't get too hot.