A direct-vent fireplace uses a closed combustion system with
a sealed glass front. It draws all its combustion air from
outside your horne through the venting system.
This greatly increases efficiency and indoor air quality.
Since it can be vented both horizontally and vertically, a
direct vent fireplace opens up many options for locating a
fireplace in your home. (see: direct
vent vs. vent free video at Fireplaces.com).
What does zero-clearance refer to?
The term zero-clearance designates a factory built fireplace
that is designed and tested to be built into typical frame
construction. Unlike a true masonry fireplace, a zero-clearance
fireplace does not require its own special footings.
What is a flue?
A flue is another name for a fireplace chimney or venting
system.
What is a chase?
A chase is a structure either on the outside of the house
or on the roof that contains and conceals the chimney system.
It can be sided to match the rest of building or covered with
brick or stone.
What about vent free products?
Modern's fireplace professionals have chosen to avoid vent-free
products. We feel they are rarely a good chose due to indoor
air quality issues. (Get more information about indoor
air quality.)
How can I make my existing fireplace more effcient?
Adding a quality glass door will increase your control over
your fire, and limit the amount of air you lose up the chimney.
A gas log set will allow you to close the flue as soon as
you
turn off the fire, unlike a wood fire which needs to die
for
hours while the flue remains open.
A heat exchanger will add heat output to your existing
fireplace.
Finally, a direct-vent gas insert will turn almost
any fireplace into an efficient space heater without
out sacrificing your fireplace's ambience.
I want to convert my wood-buming fireplace to gas, should
I choose a gas log or a gas insert?
Your decision comes down to how much a priority heating
efficiency is for you. A gas log is primarily a decorative
appliance. It will give you the convenience and cleanliness
of gas, but will not provide a great deal of heat. An insert
will cost approximately five times the cost of a gas log, but
will pay for itself in few years through gas bill savings.
We can explain all your options in our showroom.
Who should install my new fireplace?
Most people choose to have a fireplace professionally installed.
Only a qualified and licensed mechanical contractor should
do the work. Our installers only install fireplaces and are
factory trained. If you choose to install your own fireplace,
you must follow the installation instructions and comply with
all local codes.
