In part one of this two-part series, we went over some of the initial variables that typically help determine the expected lifespan of a gas fireplace. Clients installing any kind of fireplace will naturally want to know how long they can expect it to perform optimally, and there are elements here both within and outside of your control as a fireplace owner.

At Comfort Solutions Fireplace, we offer a wide range of modern gas fireplaces, including linear fireplaces, frameless fireplaces and many other options. We’re happy to go over important concepts like expected lifespan with clients ahead of their purchase, including some of the key factors that will dictate it. Today’s part two of our series will look into a few other key variables here, including a couple you have direct control over as a fireplace owner.

Blower and Remote Qualities

Two other important factors that play into expected lifespan for a gas fireplace are the quality of the blower and remote being used. Blowers, for example, can be high-powered or low-powered depending on your model and how much airflow you desire. High-quality blowers here tend to last longer than their lower-powered counterparts, so it’s worth investing in one that will last as long as possible.

Similarly, the remote used to control your gas fireplace can also have an effect on its expected lifespan. A quality remote with a reliable connection and well-built parts may be able to hold up better over time than one with cheaper materials or weak connections, so it’s important to look into what kind of remote your fireplace model has.

Pilot and Igniter Assembly

Another factor to consider here is the pilot and igniter assembly. The pilot light (or lack thereof) will typically determine how much gas flows into your fireplace, as well as just how hot it gets overall. A pilot light with low output or an out-dated igniter can lead to a lower expected lifespan for your fireplace, so it’s important to have it looked at and maintained by a professional technician if necessary.

It’s also worth noting that some newer gas fireplaces are designed with electronic igniters, which will not require a pilot light at all. These can be beneficial in terms of expected lifespan since they don’t rely on as many mechanical parts like traditional models do.

Maintenance and Care

Finally, the expected lifespan of a gas fireplace can also be affected by the amount of maintenance and care you provide it. Regular cleaning and inspection will help ensure that all parts are in good shape, making it less likely that any issues will arise down the line. This is especially true for items like fans, blowers and other moving parts which need to remain in good condition in order to keep your fireplace running smoothly.

By investing the time and effort into properly maintaining your gas fireplace, you can rest assured knowing that it will last as long as possible. Taking care of any issues right away and keeping an eye out for signs of wear or damage can go a long way in getting the most out of your fireplace.

At Comfort Solutions Fireplace, we understand the importance of having a reliable and long-lasting gas fireplace in your home. We hope this two-part series has been helpful in showing the various factors that can affect expected lifespan, as well as some important tips to keep it running optimally for years to come. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you get the most out of your fireplace.

It’s natural to be curious about how long a given product or item is going to last after you purchase it, and this is especially true for high-value items like fireplaces. Focusing specifically on the modern gas fireplace, which key elements impact how long this item can be expected to last and operate efficiently?

At Comfort Solutions Fireplace, we’re happy to offer a wide range of modern gas fireplaces to clients throughout Salt Lake City and other parts of Utah. We’ll walk you through the entire selection process, including helping you understand the important components you’re choosing and how long your entire setup can be expected to last. In this two-part blog series, let’s go over the key factors in expected lifespan for a gas fireplace.

Type of Firebox Used

There are three kinds of gas fireplace firebox options: Direct vent, b-vent and ventless.

  • A direct vent gas fireplace has a sealed firebox with a pipe that goes through an exterior wall. The flue gases are exhausted directly outside, and fresh air for combustion is brought in via the same pipe. Because this type of system is hermetically sealed, it’s very efficient.
  • A b-vent gas fireplace also has a sealed firebox, but the pipe that vents the flue gases goes up the chimney. These models are less efficient than direct vent options.
  • Ventless gas fireplaces don’t have a flue or any type of pipe. The combustion gases are exhausted into the room where the fireplace is located. While this might not sound ideal, the fireplaces are designed with several safety features to ensure that they operate efficiently and don’t pose a danger to homeowners.

The type of firebox you choose will impact how long your gas fireplace lasts. Direct vent and b-vent options will last longer because they’re more efficient and have less wear and tear on the components. Ventless options will still last a long time, but they might not be as efficient and could require more maintenance over time.

Size of the Fireplace

The size of your fireplace will also play a role in how long it lasts. A smaller fireplace will have less wear and tear on the components and will be less likely to experience problems down the road. A larger fireplace will have more stress on the components and might require more maintenance over time.

Decorative Liner Used

Many gas fireplaces come with a decorative liner that goes around the firebox. This liner can be made of different materials, including stone, brick or metal.

The type of liner you choose will impact how long your fireplace lasts. A stone or brick liner will last longer than a metal liner because it’s more durable and less likely to experience problems. A metal liner might last a long time, but it could eventually start to corrode or experience other issues.

In part two of our series, we’ll go over some additional factors that play a role in determining gas fireplace lifespan. For more on this, or to learn about any of our fireplace products or services for SLC clients, speak to our team at Comfort Solutions Fireplace today.

In part one of this two-part blog series, we went over some of the many areas of value people get from installing outdoor heating elements on their property. Fire pits, tables and related forms of outdoor heating are fantastic for a number of purposes, and which of them stands out to you will depend on you personal priorities.

At Comfort Solutions Fireplace, we’re happy to offer a wide range of outdoor heating products for clients around Utah, including fire pits and more. Today’s part two of our series will go over some additional areas of value you may be considering from an outdoor heating or fire element.

Increasing Home Value

Many people make home improvements in large part to increase the eventual resale value of their property. While some improvements will have a more universal appeal to buyers than others, anything you can do to make your home stand out in a competitive market is valuable.

Outdoor fire pits are one of those things that can really help your home stand out. Whether you’re looking at a basic wood-burning model or something a little more elaborate, having a fire pit installed is a great way to add value to your home.

If you’re not planning on selling anytime soon, that’s okay! You can still enjoy the increased curb appeal and pride of ownership that comes with making improvements to your home.

Extended Gathering Season

If you’re the type of person who loves to entertain, then you know that the seasons can have a big impact on your ability to do so. In Utah, where the winters eventually get pretty heavy, there are only so many times you can stand around in the cold before it starts to wear on you.

With an outdoor fire pit, you can extend your entertaining season by several months. There’s something about sitting around a fire that just makes people feel more comfortable, even when the temperature outside is starting to drop.

If you don’t entertain often but love spending time outdoors, an outdoor fire pit can still be a great addition to your property. You can enjoy the feeling of being outdoors without having to deal with the cold, and you might even find yourself spending more time outside as a result.

Easy Installation

Finally, one of the best things about outdoor fire pits is that they’re relatively easy to install. In most cases, you won’t need any special permits or permissions in order to have one installed on your property.

If you’re thinking about adding an outdoor fire pit to your home, Comfort Solutions Fireplace can help. We offer a wide range of fire pits and other outdoor heating products, and our team would be happy to help you find the perfect one for your needs. Contact us today to learn more!

While many people think of fireplaces and other heating elements as indoor-only fixtures, modern technology means this is absolutely not the case anymore. There are a variety of quality outdoor heating options available, and many of these are especially attractive in a beautiful state like Utah that has great outdoor qualities, but also gets cold for chunks of the year.

At Comfort Solutions Fireplace, we’re happy to offer a number of different outdoor heating elements in addition to our traditional and contemporary indoor fireplaces. What are some of the key benefits of adding outdoor heating to your property? This two-part blog series will look into several.

Warmth Improvements

Naturally, for those who want to spend time outdoors in Utah during the colder months, having an outdoor heating element will be a major boon. Even if you don’t plan on venturing outside much, though, an outdoor heater can do wonders for your property’s curb appeal.

Outdoor heaters come in all shapes and sizes these days, from sleek wall-mounted designs to grandiose patio heaters. No matter your budget or heating needs, there’s an option out there for you.

Ambiance

Down related lines, an outdoor heating element can also create a great ambiance on your property. A beautiful fireplace on your patio can make it feel like a luxurious oasis, while a small and simple wall heater can add an elegant touch to any walkway.

And of course, if you’re using your outdoor heater to actually spend time outside, the added warmth and ambiance can make the experience that much better. No more huddling under blankets!

Focal Point

For many people, an outdoor heating element can also serve as a great focal point. This is especially true of grandiose patio heaters and fireplaces, which can become the centerpiece of your entire outdoor space.

With the right design and placement, an outdoor heater can really help tie your property together and give it a unique and stylish feel. For example, let’s say you have a beautiful patio but it feels a bit empty. Adding a heating element in the middle can help it come to life and give you a great place to gather with friends and family.

These are just a few of the key benefits of adding an outdoor heating element to your property. In our next blog post, we’ll look into some more, including how an outdoor heater can increase your property value. Stay tuned!

Comfort Solutions Fireplace is the leading provider of fireplaces in Utah. We offer a wide range of indoor and outdoor fireplaces, as well as a variety of other home comfort solutions. Contact us today to learn more about our products and services, or to view your options for any kind of fireplace or heating element you might require.

In part one of this two-part blog series, we went over some of the most important terms to know when it comes to the realm of fireplace accessories. There are several specific items that are technically not part of the fireplace itself, but still play a major role in its operations, and knowing about them will help you build the ideal setup for your home.

At Comfort Solutions Fireplace, we’re happy to assist Utah clients with a huge range of traditional and modern fireplaces, plus with all the accessories and related items you might need. What are some other basic fireplace accessory terms to have in your lexicon? Here are a few.

Inner Panels

Present on both gas fireplaces and inserts, inner panels are the materials that line the firebox. They can be made of ceramic, refractory bricks, or metal, and their purpose is to help reflect heat back into the room and protect the fireplace itself from heat damage.

Media

You might be wondering about the inclusion of this term, which for many people refers to the press and areas of journalism. In the fireplace world, however, “media” simply refers to the kinds of materials being placed inside the fireplace to “burn” (or give the appearance of burning).

Examples of media in fireplaces include log sets, crystals, stones, and more. Modern fireplaces often come with the option to display different media sets, which can change up the look of your fireplace as you see fit.

Surround

A term that’s used primarily for gas fireplace inserts is “surround,” which refers to an accessory that covers any holes that the insert or faceplate is not large enough to cover. For example, if you’re installing gas inserts into a previous fireplace that had a rounded opening, a surround can be used to give the new fireplace a more finished appearance.

If the surround wasn’t used here, on the other hand, there would likely be noticeable gaps around the new insert. Surrounds can be made of different materials, including wood, stone, and metal.

Venting

One of the most important fireplace accessory areas is the venting, which is what allows the fireplace to properly draw in air and expel smoke. Improper or insufficient venting can cause all kinds of problems for a fireplace, so it’s important that homeowners take this area into consideration when planning their setup.

There are several different types of vents that can be used for a fireplace, including natural draft, B-vent, and direct vent. The type of fireplace you have will likely dictate which kind of venting is best for your needs.

Now that we’ve gone over a few more key fireplace accessory terms, you should have a better understanding of some of the items you might need for your own fireplace. For more on this, or to learn about any of our fireplace services in Utah, speak to the team at Comfort Solutions Fireplace today.

While the actual fireplace unit installed in your home is very important for your final product, it’s not the only element to consider here. You may also be utilizing a number of fireplace accessories, which refer to anything besides the actual physical fireplace unit, and having some basic knowledge on these other accessories can be very important as you both set up and maintain your fireplace.

At Comfort Solutions Fireplace, it’s our pleasure to assist clients with all their accessory needs, whether you’re purchasing a gas fireplace, electric fireplace or any of our other custom fireplace options. What are some of the most common accessories utilized in or around fireplaces, and what should you know about them as you’re getting your setup organized? This two-part blog series will go over everything you need to know, going in somewhat alphabetical order to keep things simple.

Base

Mostly utilized for wood stoves and similar units, a base is a platform that your stove will sit on top of. It’s important to make sure that this platform is level, as an unlevel stove can result in damage to the unit or your home. The base also needs to be large enough to give the unit plenty of clearance on all sides – at least 18 inches is ideal, but more may be necessary depending on the size and design of your stove.

Blowers

One of the most important accessories for various fireplace styles, a blower helps to circulate heat throughout the room by pushing air out of the stove and into the room. Blowers can be manual or automatic, and many newer models come with a thermostat that will turn the blower on and off as needed to maintain a consistent temperature.

In many cases, blowers will also simply be called fans. It’s important to note that blowers themselves do not create any additional heat, but rather simply help circulate the heat around.

Burners

For gas fireplaces, a burner is an essential component as it’s what actually produces the flames. Different styles of fireplaces will utilize different types of burners, so it’s important to consult with a professional to ensure you’re using the right type for your unit. Additionally, the size of the burner will also be a factor to consider.

Faceplate

For both gas fireplaces and gas inserts, a faceplate is the trim that goes around the opening of the unit. This can be made from a number of different materials, including wood, metal or stone, and its purpose is both aesthetic and functional. Not only does it help give your fireplace a finished look, but it also serves to protect the unit from any debris or other elements that could potentially cause damage.

In part two of our series, we’ll go over some further fireplace accessories to be aware of. For more on this, or to learn about any of our fireplace products or services, speak to the staff at Comfort Solutions Fireplace today.

In part one of this two-part blog series, we went over some basics on why spring fireplace maintenance is important for many fireplace owners, plus how to get started with doing so if you own a wood-burning fireplace. Maintenance is important for everything from fireplace efficiency to long-term lifespan, and transitional seasons like spring are often an ideal time to carry them out.

At Comfort Solutions Fireplace, we offer not only a wide selection of various fireplace options, but also elite fireplace repairs and service to keep your equipment in good shape at all times. What are some tips we regularly offer clients (or assist them with) when it comes to gas and electric fireplaces and spring maintenance? Here’s a rundown.

Gas Fireplace Spring Upkeep

Here are some of the areas to be considering for gas fireplace upkeep:

  • Checking for gas leaks: One of the most important things you can do for your gas fireplace is to make sure there are no leaks in the system. You’ll want to inspect all of the tubing and seals to make sure they’re tight and not showing any signs of wear or damage that could lead to a leak.
  • Cleaning the burner: Another key area of focus is the burner itself. Over time, it can become clogged with soot and debris, which can impact both the efficiency of your fireplace and the quality of the flames.
  • Check your gas logs: If you have gas logs in your fireplace, it’s also important to give them a good once-over to make sure they’re in good condition. Look for any cracks or damage that could cause problems down the line.
  • Cleaning glass doors: The glass doors on a gas fireplace can also become coated in soot and debris over time, which can impact both the look of your fireplace and its efficiency.
  • Thermopile and thermocouple: Finally, be sure to check your fireplace’s thermopile and thermocouple. These are important components that help to regulate the flow of gas to your fireplace, and they can occasionally need to be replaced.

Electric Fireplace Spring Upkeep

If you own an electric fireplace, here are some of the areas to look at:

  • Check electrical connections and circuitry: The first thing you’ll want to do is make sure all of the electrical connections and circuitry in your fireplace are in good working order. This includes everything from the wiring to the switch.
  • Cleaning the heating element: The next step is to clean the heating element. This is what actually produces the heat in an electric fireplace, and it can become clogged with dust and debris over time.
  • Cleaning the glass: Just like with a gas fireplace, the glass on an electric fireplace can also become coated in soot and debris, which can impact both the look of your fireplace and its efficiency.
  • Inspecting the blower: The blower is a key component in an electric fireplace, as it helps to circulate the air and distribute the heat. Be sure to inspect it regularly to make sure it’s in good working order.

These are just a few of the things to keep in mind when it comes to spring fireplace maintenance for gas and electric fireplaces. As always, if you have any questions or concerns, be sure to contact our team at Comfort Solutions Fireplace for assistance!

While homeowners everywhere regularly consider a few major home maintenance areas during the spring period, such as HVAC, plumbing or other areas, the fireplace sometimes goes under-discussed here. While it may not require the same kind of detailed care that your air conditioner does headed into summer, necessarily, there are a few simple areas you can consider here as you transition from one season to another.

At Comfort Solutions Fireplace, we’re proud to not only offer a huge range of fireplace options for our Utah clients, but also to provide high-quality fireplace repair and service to ensure your fireplace is in great shape year-round. This two-part blog series will look into why spring fireplace maintenance matters, plus some basic tips to consider for the various fireplace types out there — whether you do so on your own or with help from our fireplace service professionals.

Why Spring Fireplace Maintenance Matters

As we noted above, your fireplace doesn’t necessarily fall into the same category as other vital home components like the air conditioner or water heater when it comes to maintenance. However, there are a few key reasons why spring fireplace maintenance can be important as you look ahead to using your fireplace less and less in the coming months.

For one, this is a great time of year to assess any damage that may have occurred to your fireplace during the winter season. This might include cracks in the fireplace itself, damage to the chimney or flue, or any other areas where water or debris may have gotten in and caused problems. Spring is also a good time to check for any animals that may have made their way into your fireplace over the winter months and take steps to remove them and repair any damage they may have caused.

Wood Fireplace Spring Upkeep

Here are some basic tips on areas to look at when you’re performing spring upkeep on your wood fireplace:

  • Chimney sweep: This is one of the most important things you can do for your wood fireplace, and it’s best to do it at least once a year. This will help remove any soot, creosote or debris that has built up over the past year and could potentially cause problems down the road.
  • Inspect the firebox: Take a look at the firebox itself to check for any cracks, gaps or other damage. These areas can let heat escape and also allow water and debris to enter, so it’s important to repair them as soon as possible.
  • Inspect the flue: The flue is the pipe that carries smoke and fumes up and out of your fireplace, and it’s important to make sure it’s in good working condition. Check for any cracks, blockages or other damage and repair or replace as necessary.
  • Basic cleaning: In addition to the above, you’ll also want to do some basic cleaning of your fireplace. This includes sweeping the hearth, removing any debris from the firebox and wiping down the outside of the fireplace.

In part two of our series, we’ll go over some tips for gas and electric fireplaces and their springtime maintenance. For more on this, or to learn about any of our fireplace products or services in Utah, speak to the team at Comfort Solutions Fireplace today.

In part one of this two-part blog series, we looked at some primary basics on how fireplace blowers work and what they do. These are important components that usually come included as part of a new fireplace purchase, circulating air around the firebox to minimize heat output and keep the area warm.

At Comfort Solutions Fireplace, we’re happy to detail the components of any of our fireplaces, including our custom fireplace designs that we create for clients. While part one of our series went over the basics on blowers and what they do, today’s part two will go into some common questions we get from clients about blowers, and the simple answers to them.

Can a Fireplace Run Without a Blower?

Absolutely. Blowers are on the exterior of a fireplace, meaning they have no impact on elements like fuel efficiency, drafting or how the fireplace itself actually works. Blowers are simply powered by either batteries or an external power source, and can be turned on or off as needed.

Keep in mind that because blowers move air around the firebox, they will also impact how much heat is outputted from the fireplace. So if you’re looking to maximize heat output, you may want to consider running the fireplace without a blower.

Can a Blower Be Added to a Current Fireplace

What if you already have a fireplace, but it didn’t come with a blower? In nearly all cases it’s possible to have a blower retroactively installed, but this depends on the model of fireplace and other factors. It’s always best to consult with a professional like Comfort Solutions Fireplace to see if a blower can be added before making any decisions, but especially in today’s realm of modern fireplaces, the answer is almost always yes.

We strongly recommend clients sourcing new fireplaces come with blower options — even if you aren’t going to purchase a blower immediately, knowing you have the option to do so in the future is always valuable.

Are Blowers Loud?

Not at all. Most fireplace blowers create about the same amount of noise as a standard home fan, which is to say they’re not noticeable unless you’re standing right next to the fireplace. The sound produced by a blower is a gentle hum, and can actually help muffle any popping or crackling sounds that come from a wood-burning fireplace.

Blowers are available in different speeds, so if noise is a concern you can always opt for a lower-speed blower that produces less sound.

How Much Does a Blower Cost?

Prices on fireplace blowers vary depending on the model of fireplace, but they typically range from $100 to $200. This will also depend on whether you’re looking for a battery-powered blower or one that plugs into an external power source.

Installing a blower is a simple process that can be done by almost anyone, or you can always hire a professional to do it for you.

For more on fireplace blowers and their importance, or to learn about any of our fireplace products or solutions, contact the team at Comfort Solutions Fireplace today.

Fireplaces are often used for major warmth needs in addition to their fantastic aesthetics, and there are a few fireplace components that will play a role here. One of these that’s very important to understand and maintain: Fireplace blowers, also known as fireplace fans.

At Comfort Solutions Fireplace, we’re proud to offer a wide variety of both traditional and modern fireplaces, from wood-burning options to gas, electric and more. Blowers and fans are utilized in many of our models, and we’re happy to discuss the precise details here with clients so they understand what they’re getting. What are fireplace blowers, how do they work, and what else do you need to know about them for your fireplace? This two-part blog series will go over a number of themes.

Fireplace Blower Basics

As we alluded to above, a fireplace blower refers to a type of fan that will be mounted, either on the outside of the fireplace or within the unit, but still outside the actual firebox. The primary purpose of the blower is to circulate air around the firebox and into the room – this helps maximize heat output and keep the area around the fireplace warm.

In most cases, a blower will be included as part of the purchase of a new fireplace, though it’s worth checking to make sure if you’re considering an older model. One of the best parts about fireplace blowers: They don’t increase the fireplace’s actual BTU output at all, instead relying on physics to help heat the air. So, if you’re looking for a way to boost your fireplace’s warmth without doing any upgrades, adding a blower is definitely the way to go!

How Do They Work?

Now that we know what they are and what they do, let’s take a look at how fireplace blowers work. The process begins by the blower pulling air from the room it’s in, then forcing it through a channel that runs alongside the firebox. The air then enters the firebox itself, where it’s warmed by the flames and exits out the top of the unit.

Once the air is heated, it’s forced back into the room through two main channels: One above the fireplace that distributes heat evenly around the room, and one below that helps prevent cold drafts from coming into the room. The blower will continue to cycle air through the fireplace, providing a steady stream of warmth to the room.

As this continues to happen, previously heated air gets replaced by new, colder air, so it’s important to make sure your fireplace blower is functioning properly at all times. If you’re not seeing the results you expect in terms of warmth, it might be time for a tune-up.

In part two of our series, we’ll go over some additional themes — fireplace blower noise levels, whether you can add a blower to an existing fireplace, and whether your fireplace really needs a blower at all.

For more on this, or to learn about any of our fireplace options, speak to the team at Comfort Solutions Fireplace today.