You decided to upgrade your old masonry fireplace with a new gas fireplace insert or a set of gas logs in order to improve the energy efficiency of your home, and you thought you could save money by installing the insert yourself. However, doing this task yourself could end up costing you even more money because of the problems that could occur with a DIY hearth appliance installation job. Having your new fireplace insert or set of gas logs professionally installed is not only recommended by manufacturers, but also by national fire safety organizations like the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA). If you live in the Chicago area, Aelite Chimney Specialties can properly and safely install your new hearth heating appliance, and we can also assist you with finding the best appliance for your home if you need help with upgrading your older fireplace. We would like to tell you a bit more about why you should have a fireplace insert or a set of gas logs professionally installed.
What problems could occur if I do not have my new gas hearth heating appliance professionally installed?
According to the CSIA, gas appliances have to meet specific venting requirements. The main concern when installing a new gas fireplace insert into an existing masonry fireplace opening is matching the size of the flue with the appliance. Most masonry chimneys are too large for newer gas fireplace inserts, and this size difference can cause a couple of problems. One of these problems has to do with condensation. When the flue is too large, not enough heat is produced to keep water vapors from liquefying. This liquid is very corrosive and can eat away at the masonry materials of the chimney. Another common issue that occurs has to do with inadequate draft, which reduces the safety and efficiency of your new heating appliance. When your chimney has draft problems, the toxic combustion gases like carbon monoxide are not pulled out of your home through the chimney. When Aelite Chimney Specialties installs a new hearth heating appliance, we make sure that the size of the flue matches the size of the appliance by installing a new stainless steel chimney liner to provide a properly matched flue.
What types of hearth heating appliances does Aelite Chimney Specialties carry?
We carry a wide variety of fireplace inserts of different fuel types that can improve the energy efficiency of your home. Growing in popularity each year, fireplace inserts are easy to use and to maintain. They also allow you to improve both the appearance of your hearth and the heating efficiency of your home. We offer several fuel options for these inserts, including wood-burning, gas, and pellet. Our knowledgeable staff can help you choose which fuel type is the best fit for your home. We also carry gas logs as another option for increasing the energy efficiency in your house, and we can install freestanding wood stoves as well.
Are you ready to update your older masonry fireplace this winter? Contact us at Aelite Chimney Specialties to learn more about how we can help you improve your heating efficiency in your home.