381-8 Old Riverhead Road

Westhampton Beach, NY

Tel. 631-998-0780

Hours: Tues. - Thur. 9am to 3pm / Fri. 9am to 12pm (or by appt.) / Sat. - Mon. Closed

Our Company Blog

Want To Convert To Gas? We Can Help

If you’re looking to make changes to your fireplace and chimney system, now is the time. Spring is a great time for home maintenance, new projects, and upgrades. Don’t set out on a DIY project when you can have the expertise and service of a professional by making a call! Beach Stove and Fireplace have all the knowledge and experience necessary to make your next project a success. If you’re looking to convert or upgrade your wood-burning fireplace, we can help. 

Converting to Gas

A great way to upgrade the look of an old fireplace and improve the efficiency of the system in one swoop is to convert your wood-burning fireplace to gas. It is easy and cost-effective when you hire a professional. 

–Gas burns clean. You don’t have to worry about nasty soot and creosote buildup because gas produces very little soot and no creosote at all. Gas is the cleanest burning fuel for household fires, and almost all the heat from the fuel is used for heating. 

–Gas is eco-friendly. Gas is a fossil fuel, but it burns so cleanly that it produces 45 percent less carbon dioxide than coal, 30 percent less than oil, and 15 percent less than wood. Gas appliances are some of the most efficient on the market, and most newer models are EPA-certified. 

–Gas is realistic and beautiful. Your new gas fireplace can look just like a wood burning fire, with realistic ceramic logs, dancing yellow flames, and ambient heat that can make any space cozy. Your gas fire can be as simple as logs placed in your existing firebox, or a new, beautiful unit retrofitted into space. Choose any style you’d like when converting to gas. 

–Gas is convenient and low maintenance. When you convert to gas, you’re exchanging your woodpile for a convenient on/off switch, precise temperature control, and even a remote control if you choose! Gas heat is easy, convenient, and requires less maintenance than wood heat. You will spend less money on routine maintenance and less time and money on repairs when you go with gas. 

Professional Installation/Conversion

Keep in mind that gas burns differently than wood and that you must have it professionally installed to avoid problems with venting and condensation. Only a professional can properly install your new gas unit properly. The flue must be sized properly to vent safely, and all connections should be checked by a professional before use. Our team at Beach Stove and Fireplace not only converts wood fireplaces to gas, but we check and guarantee our work. We are certified and trained by the manufacturers, a requirement of most product warranties.

Don’t put your family at risk by attempting to convert your own fireplace. Let us do the work, and you will have a new fireplace in time for the cold evenings this spring, and it will be ready for burn season this fall. 

Call 631-998-0780 or schedule online today.

By Julie Dismore on March 30th, 2019 | Tagged with: Tags: , | Comments Off on Want To Convert To Gas? We Can Help

Direct Vent Vs. Vent-Free Gas Fireplaces

Before winter is in full swing, it may be time to consider a new fireplace! Adding a fireplace to your home help with supplemental heat and save you money on heating bills. It provides the perfect ambiance to relaxing evenings, and it also create the perfect backdrop for all your winter festivities. You don’t even have to have an existing fireplace or chimney system to have a new fireplace anymore. When you choose a gas fireplace, it can be installed anywhere and offer all the benefits of a fireplace with the convenience.

Choosing Gas

dancing flames of a gas fireplace Gas is the most popular choice of fireplaces due to their affordable pricing, easy installation, unrivaled convenience, and low maintenance. It burns cleaner than any other fuel, making service appointments less frequent, and easy clean up. Gas fires are more realistic and beautiful than ever, in addition to being an excellent heat source. You don’t even need a chimney when choosing a direct vent fireplace or a vent-free fireplace.

Direct Vent Gas Fireplace

Direct vent fireplace technology has made it possible to have the high efficiency of a gas stove, without a chimney. A direct vent fireplace is a closed unit that draws air from the outside for combustion, and then it vents the combustion byproducts out a separate pipe. Imagine two pipes, one inside the other, one drawing air in, and one venting air out. This is direct vent technology. It is generally in a wall behind the fireplace unit, but it can also be through a floor or ceiling.

A direct vent fireplace is different than a vent free fireplace or gas log fireplace because it is wholly separate from the home. In fact, the fixed glass panel that provides a viewing window also serves as an important barrier to keep the combustion isolated from the home. This fireplace is highly efficient, because it uses all the heat for the house instead of needing heat to draw air up the chimney. 

Vent Free Gas Fireplace

Like a direct vent fireplace, a vent free fireplace can be installed anywhere because it doesn’t require a chimney or flue. However, it works in the opposite way, drawing its air for combustion from the home, and then venting combustion byproducts into the home. This system doesn’t waste any heat, but can create condensation in the home that may damage wall coverings, flooring, and ceilings. Another drawback to a vent-free gas fireplace is the temperature control. They provide quite a bit of heat, but the temperature is hard to regulate, whereas a direct vent unit has precise temperature control.

Are you ready to have a new gas fireplace before winter? Call Beach Stove and Fireplace for the best products, prices, installation services, and more. Call 631-998-0780 or stop by today!

By Julie Dismore on October 17th, 2018 | Tagged with: Tags: , , | Comments Off on Direct Vent Vs. Vent-Free Gas Fireplaces

How to Clean and Maintain a Gas Fireplace

When your gas fireplace was installed, you should have gotten the low-down from the technician who did the installing. At the very least, you should’ve gotten the owner’s manual for your appliance. If you didn’t, or you just purchased your home with an already-installed appliance, don’t worry—the owner’s manual is likely online. It’s important to get as much information about your system as possible so that you can take care of it properly. 

Step 1: Get to know your gas fireplace

Either by reading your owner’s guide, or asking a professional, you can find out how to properly use, clean, and maintain your gas fireplace. It may be as simple as wiping it down with a cotton cloth monthly, or it may have a self-cleaning feature like an oven. You won’t know unless you look for yourself.

Step 2: Make a plan

Just as you should check the smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors monthly,  you should plan to clean and check your gas fireplace. Clean the glass, dust around and beneath the log set, check hinges, connections, and clear the area of debris.

Step 3: Schedule professional maintenance

No matter how often you clean the visible portions of your fireplace, there is no replacing professional services that assess and clean the hidden portions of the chimney. Gas fireplaces release water vapors that may cause condensation in the flue. This condensation can lead to flue damage because of the high acid content of the water. The biggest problem with any chimney system, especially gas fireplaces, is neglect. When a gas fireplace and chimney system is neglected, it can result in water damage that can damage walls, masonry, paint, wallpaper, and more.

It’s important to us at Beach Stove and Fireplace that you aren’t just safe and comfortable, but also that you’re getting the most out of your gas fire appliance. Gas fireplaces are low maintenance, and many homeowners assume that also means “no maintenance”. It doesn’t. Not only will your homeowner’s insurance require annual maintenance of fire appliances, but it may also be required to maintain a product warranty. This can actually save you money by preventing damage, repairs, and keeping your products as efficient as possible.

Beach Stove and Fireplace sell some of the best products on the market, and we trust our installations to our sister company, Guaranteed Chimney Service. Guaranteed Chimney Service is licensed, insured, and CSIA certified. When a chimney sweep gets a CSIA certification, that means they are able to service all types of appliances, including gas.

Don’t spend another day wondering if your fireplace is safe. Let the professionals clean and maintain your gas fireplace today.  We can tell you how to continue to clean and maintain it tomorrow.

Call Beach Stove and Fireplace at 631-998-0780, visit our store, or contact us online.

By Julie Dismore on March 6th, 2018 | Tagged with: Tags: , , | Comments Off on How to Clean and Maintain a Gas Fireplace

Pros and Cons of Ignition Systems

At Beach Stove and Fireplace, you can expect nothing but the best in products and value. We offer a full line of gas fireplaces varying in size, style, and brand. Many of our customers in Suffolk County prefer gas because of it’s efficiency and high heat output, but others love gas appliances simply because of their ease of use. Unlike a wood stove or fireplace where you have to handle wood, light a fire, and maintain it, gas is less work. Most gas appliances light with the flip of a switch, although there are varying methods of ignition.

Common Types of Ignition Systems

  • Millivolt Ignition System. 
    This ignition system doesn’t require external power, so it can be ignited during a power outage. Millivolt ignitions are remote-ready and can vary in use, from an on/off wall switch to a thermostat remote. They require a pilot light, which can be shut off during the off-season. This is the most common ignition type on the market, but are not aloud in some areas due to the pilot light.
  • Electronic Ignition System. 
    When a switch is flipped, a pilot light is lit electronically and the burner opens. Since this system would not ordinarily work during a power outage, these units usually include a battery back-up system.
    Thermostatic Ignition System. 
    With the use of a standing pilot light, this system doesn’t require external power, and will work during a power outage. This system uses an internal thermostat to maintain a pre-set temperature.
  • Match-Light Ignition System. 
    This system has no pilot light and requires the consumer to manually light the fuel with a match. These units don’t include an oxygen depletion sensor. This system is becoming less common and is not allowed in many areas. (NOTE: Match-lit ignition systems are not allowed in our area.)
  • Manual Ignition System. 
    A mechanical or battery operated Piezo ignitor is required for this type of system. The Piezo is used to generate a spark and ignite the pilot light. These units include an oxygen depletion sensor for safety.

Operate Your Appliances Correctly

The elements required to ignite and maintain a fire will always be oxygen, fuel, and an ignition. Although gas appliances are extremely convenient, economical, and effective for home heating, homeowners should remember that they can be dangerous. One of the most dangerous points during the use of your appliance is the ignition. Be sure you are operating your appliance correctly, and that your ignition system is within regulations for safety.

At Beach Stove and Fireplace we sell and install many appliances, and remove others. Of all the appliances that we repair, replace, and install each year, the ones we recommend to our customers are those equipped with the electronic ignition. They are coupled with a safety pilot and can work with a remote. Please note, that in our service area, match-lit ignition systems aren’t allowed, so we recommend our customers switch to the safer option – the electronic ignition.

Click here to learn more about gas appliances or call Beach Stove and Fireplace today at 631-998-0780.

By Julie Dismore on June 7th, 2017 | Tagged with: Tags: , , , | Comments Off on Pros and Cons of Ignition Systems

Add a Contemporary Gas Fireplace to Your Home This Winter

Winter is the time to think about a fireplace whether you have one or not. Maybe you just acquired a home or are looking to remodel or upgrade aspects of your decor. Is a fireplace something you’ve long-wondered about but not sure about the cost, the work, or the safety of an old chimney? Maybe you don’t have a chimney. Don’t let that stop you from your dream fireplace this winter.

Add a Contemporary Gas Fireplace to Your Home This Winter Image - Westhamptom Beach NY - Beach Stove & FireplaceGas is the Contemporary New Choice

The gas fireplace produces a beautiful flame, realistic logs, and incomparable convenience. They are ready when you are, with no fuss over splitting and hauling wood, no need for ash shovels and buckets (unless you want them as decoration), no need to sweep up wood pieces at the end of the day. Gas fireplaces are easy to light, and even run through a power outage. With so many benefits it’s hard to decide against a gas fireplace! Learn more about gas fireplaces from the experts that train the experts, the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA).

The Versatile Design

When you choose a gas fireplace you have freedom to choose from a variety of styles, sizes, and face options. You can even give your existing fireplace a facelift by choosing a gas fireplace.

You can choose a fireplace that works for you when your chimney doesn’t. Many gas fireplaces don’t require a chimney, but an alternate vent can do the trick. You can even choose a gas log set that doesn’t require a vent at all, although the flame is blue. If you’re looking for the realistic yellow flame you need a vented fireplace.

Choose a Professional With the Know-How

When you choose a certified chimney sweep company that is experienced with gas products you can count on their advice from start to finish. At Beach Stove and Fireplace we don’t just install any old appliance. Safety is our first priority, but it’s also our goal to bring your dream fireplace into your home. Gas fireplaces offer endless contemporary options that will fit virtually any space in your home.

You don’t have to settle for what’s easy, because Beach Stove and Fireplace sells products that feature easy and seamless professional installation. When you choose the professionals with the know-how, you can focus on what you want out of your fireplace without worrying about the work. Let us take care of that.

To prepare for your consultation with Beach Stove and Fireplace, you can look at our product brochure. You just might find the fireplace of your dreams!

Call Beach Stove and Fireplace at 631-998-0780 today and discuss your contemporary gas fireplace with an expert. You can also request an appointment online for your convenience.

By Julie Dismore on December 15th, 2016 | Tagged with: Tags: , , , | Comments Off on Add a Contemporary Gas Fireplace to Your Home This Winter

Is Your Gas Burning and Wood Burning Appliance Created Equal

If you depend on a fuel-burning appliance to heat your home, you don’t only want to be warm. You also want to make certain your appliance is at its safest and most efficient.

The Flame May Look the Same

To an untrained eye, fire is fire. It burns fuel and produces heat. It may be pleasing to the eye if you have a fireplace or glass front appliance, but there is much more to that flame than you may realize.

The Fuel that Feeds the Fire

wood burning fireplacel - Westhampton Beach NY - Beach Stove and Fireplace

As their names indicate, gas burning appliances burn natural gas, and wood burning appliances burn wood. Wood can be in the form of chopped firewood or pellets. While any consumer can chop wood with the help of a chainsaw and axe (and some other tools if preferred), it’s important to recognize that all trees are not created equal either. There are hard woods, and soft woods, and both should be properly seasoned before burning. Click here to find out more about proper wood selection.

If you have a gas burning appliance, you will burn gas, either from a propane tank or piped in from a utility company. Like wood pellets, gas is processed before it’s purchased by the consumer, and if you have an appliance that uses wood pellets or gas, it is probably EPA-certified.

With so many options for heating appliances, there are several factors to consider.

Particle Pollution

When fuel is burned particles are released into the air. Cleaner fuels release less particles than others, and different appliances release less particles than others. For instance, a fireplace releases 28 parts per million of particulate matter, whereas a gas furnace releases only .0083 parts per million. That means there is about 3,373 times more particle pollution released from a fireplace than a gas furnace.

Why does particle pollution matter? If you are prone to bronchial illness, have any type of asthma, or certain allergies, particle pollution matters to your health. It also matters to your surrounding community, and to the Environmental Protection Agency.

Heating Efficiency

When you depend on a fuel-burning furnace to heat your home, you want it to be dependable—efficient.

Both wood-burning and gas burning furnace appliances can be highly efficient, especially those that are EPA-certified. Gas furnaces use a standard amount of fuel, and burn steadily, producing steady heat. Wood heat isn’t as consistent, though. A home or business owner must be proactive when using a wood-burning furnace. If proper wood isn’t burned, the furnace will not produce constant heat. Before choosing the wood burning appliance, consumers should educate themselves on the best habits to make the best use of the furnace.

For instance, wood is best burned in cycles. This means that when the furnace is loaded with wood, it should be allowed to burn completely, leaving a bed of coals. When there is only a bed of bright coals remaining, the furnace should be loaded again. When the fire is allowed to burn in such cycles the wood burns evenly, and heat is released steadily.

When in Doubt, Call and Find Out!

If you are choosing between a gas or wood-burning appliance, or have questions or concerns regarding the appliance you have, call us today!

By Julie Dismore on February 12th, 2016 | Tagged with: Tags: , , , | Comments Off on Is Your Gas Burning and Wood Burning Appliance Created Equal

The Benefits of Glass Fireplace Doors

If you want to make your fireplace safer and more efficient, Beach Stove & Fireplace recommends installing glass fireplace doors. Not only do these doors improve the performance of a fireplace, but they also give you an easy way to update the look of your hearth. If you do not have glass doors installed in front of your fireplace, we would like to tell you more about the benefits of this fireplace accessory.

glass-fireplace-doors-blog-image-westhampton-beach-ny-beach-stove-and-fireplace

SAVE MONEY AND ENERGY

Without glass fireplace doors, cooled and heated air can easily escape through the chimney, which is a big waste of both money and energy. When you install these doors, you will be stopping the air from leaking out of your home. In the winter, your home will be warmer, and in the summer, your home will be cooler because your fireplace will be sealed shut by glass doors. We know you will see your utility bills decrease after installing glass fireplace doors.

IMPROVE EFFICIENCY OF YOUR FIREPLACE

Don’t be afraid that glass fireplace doors will keep the heat from the fire from spreading into your home. These doors actually improve the heating efficiency of a fireplace. The heat from the fire will radiate through the doors into the room.

MAKE YOUR FIREPLACE SAFER

If you have children and/or pets, keeping them safe can be a main concern. When you install glass fireplace doors, you are protecting your loved ones from getting into the fire accidentally. You still need to teach your children not to touch the glass doors as they become very hot. Glass fireplace doors also keep hot sparks and embers from jumping out of the fire into the room where they could possibly ignite a fire. They also prevent burning logs from falling out of the fireplace onto the floor.

GIVE A NEW LOOK TO YOUR HEARTH

If you would like to update the appearance of your fireplace but are on a budget, glass fireplace doors are an easy and relatively inexpensive way to do that. Beach Stove & Fireplace offers a wide variety of styles and designs of glass fireplace doors that will give you several options to give your hearth a new look.

REDUCE CHIMNEY DRAFT PROBLEMS

Draft problems in your chimney can lead to downdrafts that cause smoke to come into your living space through the fireplace. Glass fireplace doors do not allow smoke to come in, and they can even eliminate any draft issues you may have.

Interested in installing glass doors on your fireplace? Contact us at Beach Stove & Fireplace to learn more about how we can help you improve the function, safety, and appearance with glass fireplace doors.

By Julie Dismore on December 13th, 2015 | Tagged with: Tags: , , , , , , | Comments Off on The Benefits of Glass Fireplace Doors

Choosing a Fuel Source: Finding the Right Fuel for Your Needs

When it comes to maintaining and enjoying your fireplace, it’s important to select the fuel source that best meets your needs. There are several options available, all of which offer different levels of effort and maintenance, and ultimately, different benefits.

Being informed is the most important step you can take before selecting the fuel source for your fireplace; here’s the lowdown on the different types of fuel sources available, as well as a few benefits and drawbacks they present homeowners.

choosing-a-fuel-source-image-westhampton-beach-ny-beach-stove-and-fireplace

Traditional Firewood

There’s nothing quite like a wood crackling fire. The atmosphere created by burning wood logs in your fireplace is associated with comfort, coziness and relaxation.

The glow and crackle of a fire is something we can all appreciate. No other option offers the signature fireplace experience that is offered by wood logs.

Unfortunately, there are downsides to choosing this fuel source.
Burning wood can create pollution in your home and lead to the formation of creosote in your chimney. Without a professional chimney cleaning on a regular basis, creosote can cause chimney fires.

For many people, the biggest drawback to wood logs is the work of splitting, seasoning and hauling the logs. You’ll also need to create a space to store the firewood that is out of the elements, since moist wood will not burn.

Choosing wood logs can lead to challenges for people who don’t have the time, energy or physical stamina to maintain a supply of seasoned firewood for their unit.

Pellets

An increasing number of homeowners and consumers are choosing pellet stoves to reduce utility costs and supplement the use of their furnaces. These stoves can be freestanding or can function as a fireplace insert, making them versatile as well as efficient. In fact, pellet stoves can heat your home with an efficiency rate as high as 90%.

The fuel for these stoves, pellets, are small pieces of matter composed of things like sawdust, wood shavings, and similar biomass wastes; they are often made using materials that would otherwise have been dumped into a landfill.

Because of the pellets’ consistency, they burn hotter and more cleanly than wood logs. The compression of the pellets during manufacture reduces the amount of moisture inside, allowing the pellets to give off more heat and release fewer particulates than cord wood. Additionally, pellet-burning stoves or inserts allow you to enjoy the ambiance of a traditional fireplace, without the hassle of gathering, seasoning and hauling firewood.

Fireplace pellets are also great for homeowners who do not have a gas hookup or do not want to invest in having one installed.

One of the drawbacks of choosing pellets as your fuel source can be the work of hauling and dumping the pellets (which often come in 40 pounds bags) into the auger; pellets also need to be stored inside to maintain optimum dryness.

Gas Logs

Of all of the fuel-source options, gas logs are the most user-friendly. After all, you can simply flip a switch and enjoy an instant fire.

Additionally, gas logs provide more efficient heating than pellets or wood logs; they also reduce the likelihood of a fire-related hazard in your home, since there’s no chance of a crackling ember escaping the fireplace.

There is also no chopping, storing, seasoning or hauling of firewood as with traditional wood logs. There is no hauling, storing and dumping of pellets for a pellet stove. You also won’t have to clean out ashes after using your unit.

Of course, there are a few downsides to gas logs. Gas units don’t offer the crackling and aroma associated with a traditional wood fire, and many homeowners don’t want to spend money on propane or natural gas.

If these drawbacks don’t bother you, gas logs are still the most practical fireplace fuel source for those who want a low-maintenance, user-friendly experience. For elderly people or those with physical disabilities, transitioning to a gas log fireplace can dramatically reduce the frustration and effort of enjoying a fire.

Beach Stove and Fireplace of Westhampton has professionals on hand to answer all of your fireplace fuel source questions; contact us today!

By Julie Dismore on July 28th, 2015 | Tagged with: Tags: , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Choosing a Fuel Source: Finding the Right Fuel for Your Needs

Custom Gas Fire Pits

There’s nothing like enjoying an outdoor fire during the warm summer months. Whether you’re roasting marshmallows or just relaxing with a glass of wine while watching the sunset, custom gas fire pits allow you to bask in the warmth of an outdoor fire with a gorgeous centerpiece that is completely unique. If you are thinking of installing a custom gas fire pit in your backyard, it is important to consult with a professional to make sure the job is done correctly and safely.

gas-fire-pit-image-westhampton-beach-ny-beach-stove-and-fireplace

Planning Your Gas Fire Pit

When you work with a professional, you can be sure your fireplace is built in a location that is beautiful, as well as safe. Your professional fireplace technician and contractor will find a place that is free from overhanging shrubbery and trees, as well as any pergolas or other hanging outdoor furniture. By taking careful planning measures before your gas fire pit is installed you will avoid costly modifications down the line.

Installing

Having a professional contractor like those at Beach Stove And Fireplace will make sure everything is in accordance with fire laws in your area. For example, in West Hampton Beach, NY we only sell electronic ignition and push button ignition because match lit fire pits are not allowed in our area. You also want to make sure you get the correct size burner for your fire pit and how you intend on using your pit (cooking, recreational, decorative). We are familiar with the local fire codes in our area and can help you install a fire pit that is both beautiful, as well as in alignment with fire codes. A qualified technician will sell you the products right for your area, for your personal needs and for your budget.

Maintenance

Another benefit to hiring a professional to plan and install your custom fire pit is that you will be able to call them should any maintenance needs arise. When you install a fire pit in your backyard you must make sure it is kept clean and that the stones are all sealed and intact. Additional repairs may be required, especially if you use your fire pit on a regular basis. Having a professional fire pit technician to call can help maintain your fireplace as well as answer any questions that come up.

Additional Fire Pit Tips:

  • Be sure to extinguish fire completely after every use.
  • Cover your fire pit to protect the stones and keep it dry.
  • Never leave a fire unattended.
  • Only use your fire pit according to manufacturer instructions.
  • Call your professional technician if anything isn’t working properly.

Beach Stove And Fireplace is your one-stop fire pit shop with everything you need to enjoy a gorgeous fire night after night. Our professionals are on-hand to answer any of your questions, as well as help plan your new fire pit. We can help install your new fire pit and make ourselves available to answer any questions you may have. Contact us today to start planning your custom fire pit.

By Julie Dismore on April 24th, 2015 | Tagged with: Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Custom Gas Fire Pits

Reasons to Avoid Vent Free Gas Products

As the most recent fireplace fad, vent free gas logs have drawn a lot of interest based on their high burning efficiency of up to 99 percent. Companies also emphasize the ability to burn these logs with the flue closed, which only further entices consumers. These impressive features make this product seem like an obvious choice, but in reality, vent free gas logs actually pose some serious hazards.

vented-vs-vent-free-gas-appliances-image-westhampton-beach-ny-beach-stove-and-fireplace

Vent free gas products use natural gas as fuel and require no ventilation. Rather than utilizing the air flow up through the chimney, or the draft, of a traditional fireplace, vent free fires consume the oxygen in the house. Designed specifically to burn without any type of venting, these logs should not be substituted with any other types of logs for use in a vent free system.

Any time combustion occurs, imperfect burning always results in the production of some type of waste. Even though the vent free gas logs boast a nearly perfect efficiency, they can still leave up to eight percent of the fuel incompletely burned. This incomplete burning produces harmful waste materials, such as carbon monoxide. Fatal in high enough concentrations, the inhalation of carbon monoxide and other fumes is a real threat when using vent free products because the system offers no escape for these gases. In fact, there have been reported claims of aggravated asthma, allergies and other respiratory issues by people living in homes that use vent free gas logs.

In addition to harmful gases, vent free units also produce excessive amounts of water vapor. All types of fires produce water vapor, but because the vent free systems offer no escape, the vapor ends up condensing inside the house. This is evidenced by moisture on walls, floors, and furniture, which can also lead to a variety of problems. Water damage can ruin the walls and furniture, and the home will become uncomfortable humid. Mold growth throughout the house also becomes a valid concern.

For all the claimed efficiency, vent free gas logs cannot be relied on as a source of heat. Marketers promise the production of a lot of heat, but they fail to mention that the vent free units should not stay on for more than a few hours at a time. Burning for lengths of time beyond this recommendation can lead to a depletion of oxygen levels, an increase in toxic fumes, and an increase in humidity.

Another issue is in newer houses, where the airtight build can cause interference with the combustion process. When the house is sealed tight, air cannot enter quickly enough to provide the amount of oxygen needed for the fire to burn and this lack of oxygen will extinguish the fire. Some manufacturers suggest fixing this issue by opening a window, but this defeats the purpose of investing in a vent free system in the first place.

Vent free gas products might sound great in theory, but the problems heavily outweigh the benefits. Rather than investing money into a dangerous and unhealthy vent free unit, consider high efficiency traditional fireplace inserts or direct vent fireplaces. If you live in the area of Westhampton Beach, New York, contact Beach Stove and Fireplace for more information on fireplace options.

By Julie Dismore on December 29th, 2014 | Tagged with: Tags: , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Reasons to Avoid Vent Free Gas Products

Our Location

Beach Stove and Fireplace is located on Old Riverhead Road between Montauk Highway and Sunrise Highway. From Sunrise Highway take exit 63 south, travel 1.2 miles and turn right at the 381 complex (just north of Gabreski Airport)