Gas Heating FAQ

Does Renewable Energy of Plum Hollow sell propane stoves, fireplaces and inserts, as well as natural gas ones?

Yes. Product manufacturers will supply the units in whatever fuel type you need. The fuels require different valve sizes, and most units come with a propane conversion kit, which can be changed on site.

If I choose propane, what size of propane tank will I need?

The size of tank required should be determined by contacting a local propane supplier. They will want to know how many appliances you will be running and their BTU capacities.

Where will the propane tank need to be located?

The job of the propane supplier is to assess your particular site to determine the best location for the tank, based upon its size and where the appliances will be located in the home.

Is gas safe to use?

Both natural gas and propane are safe fuels to use, as long as the heaters are installed by a TSSA-certified contractor, who will perform a final inspection on their installation. The “tag” they leave behind after inspection will identify them by number as the final authority on the installation. Installations are randomly audited by TSSA afterwards.

When shopping for a high-efficiency gas heater, what should I be looking for?

All gas heaters on the market have undergone testing by EnerGuide Canada for their relative efficiencies. The test is called the “P-4” and it involves testing all units with the same on/off type tests, and using the same amount of venting. This gives them an “apples to apples” comparison rating. According to EnerGuide, anything testing at 50%-70% is considered in the efficient range. Many better-quality heaters come close to or surpass the 70% mark. You can also look for features such as heat exchangers, radiant heat, natural convection, ceramic glass and instantaneous pilot lights as indications of overall efficiency.

How much area can a gas unit heat?

Smaller stoves and fireplaces typically start at around 17,000 Btus and will generally heat areas around 500-600 square feet, if well insulated. The Btu range of efficient units generally climbs to 40,000 – 45,000 Btus, which will heat 1,500 – 1,800 square feet. This size of heater will most likely include a fan to help distribute the heat. Anything on the market larger than this may be classified as a “decorative fireplace”, which means that most of the heat created by a large flame is being wasted up the flue instead of transmitting into the room.

Is it more expensive to install a gas stove or a fireplace?

Stoves, because they require little or no “finishing work” around them are the best choice if you are on a budget. Choosing a fireplace and using a “mantle cabinet” around it would save you the cost of constructing a drywalled enclosure for the fireplace and then mounting a “mantle surround” on the face of it.

Will I need hearth protection for a gas stove?

If the stove you choose has legs and will sit on a carpeted or laminated floor, then you are required by the gas code to install a small hearth, so that the stove will have lateral stability. If you buy a stove which sits on a pedestal type base, you do not.

Will I need a hearth for a gas fireplace?

Certain models of gas fireplace do require some floor protection out in front, due to radiant heat projection. This usually depends on the BTUs of the fireplace.

What does the term “direct-vent” mean?

This term is in reference to the structure of the venting. Direct vent used on a free-standing appliance in constructed as a “co-axial” pipe, meaning a 4” diameter inside pipe is sleeved inside a 6 5/8” outer pipe. This is a typical vent size, but they can vary. The inner liner exhausts the flue gases and the outer ring draws in fresh combustion air for the appliance. Direct venting used with a gas insert is different; typically you will have two separate 3” flexible liners, with separate flue take-offs. These run all the way up to the top of the chimney, where they are tied together with a flashing and a cap.

What is meant by B-venting?

This term refers to a type of venting different from direct venting. The exhaust gases are channeled up a single flue and the combustion air is drawn from the inside of the house. This type of vent system is less prevalent, due to somewhat lower efficiency and a tendency in certain low pressure situations to shut down due to poor drafting.

Can the venting extend upwards, instead of straight out the wall?

Yes, all types of units are tested for vertical as well as horizontal venting scenarios. The units’ allowable rise and run is published in the product specifications.

How do I finish around my fireplace?

You can choose from options such as a drywalled enclosure, with a mantle surround, or perhaps a mantle cabinet, which will house the fireplace as well as provide a finished look. In new construction, sometimes a “bump out” in the exterior wall can serve as an alcove for the fireplace, too.

How can I make the decision making process easier when selecting a fireplace and mantle?

Sometimes it helps to make the selection of the fireplace itself first. Consider the Btu capacity you need, the footprint in the room, the facing and maybe the venting needs to be taken into consideration at this time, too. Flame designs do vary to a certain extent, from brand to brand. Decisions on how to finish around the fireplace can sometimes wait until the unit gets “roughed in”. That can make it easier to imagine what would be appropriate. Sometimes, a fireplace designer can put together what the finished wall will look like ahead of time, going by what sort of style you like and what kind of space you have.

How close can a combustible mantle come to a fireplace?

The answer to that will depend on what the tested clearances are. Generally, with gas units, the distance is less than required for a wood fireplace.

How much space does a gas fireplace take up?

Gas fireplaces come in all kinds of sizes and shapes in the current marketplace. Some have widths as narrow as 24” and depths of 11”. The largest ones can take up spaces as much as 48” wide and 24” deep. Plenty of models fall somewhere in between.

Do the flames look “real”?

Yes, they look remarkable! Come in and have a look for yourself!

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