Introduction: What is a Gas Fireplace and Why Convert to Wood Burning Stove
A gas fireplace is typically a small enclosed unit filled with logs and fueled by either natural gas or propane that produces a flame when ignited. Over the years, gas fireplaces have become the go-to choice for many homeowners due to their ease of use and convenience – simply flip a switch, and you’ve got an instant fire without any mess or fuss. Although these units are highly efficient and require little maintenance, there are still some benefits to opting for an old-fashioned wood burning stove instead.
For starters, owning a wood burning stove has style appeal. This option can transform any living area into the cozy atmosphere of your dreams. There’s no denying that those who want their home to exude classic charm will not turn up their nose at this retro fixture. The unique craftsmanship of antique stoves may even increase your curb appeal if you plan on selling at some point in the future! Furthermore, warm tones and various designs can be used to create both rustic elegance along with modern chic vibes in any room within your abode, from country kitchen to continental living space – all decked out in vintage chic!
Perhaps most notably, though, is the energy savings associated with switching from gas to wood burning stoves. Wood stoves are much more efficient than gas ones as far as emissions go; yet still keep us nice and snug during those winter nights. And thanks to advances in technology over recent years (such as catalytic combustion), you won’t have smoke billowing from your chimney constantly which was often seen as an issue before. Plus while price initially may seem like another setback – particularly when compared with the lower cost of operating a gas fireplace – look at it through long-term lens: with such high conservation rates wood burns very cleanly resulting in fewer trips needed for refilling fuel tanks over time (and potentially eliminates them altogether). Plus when considering cold weather climates especially this type option ends up being considerably less expensive than using natural or propane power sources alone year-round anyway!
Finally another great benefit associated with running this type system? Like any other type of heater it’ll add extra layers of humidity during seasons where air can feel very dry; thereby ensuring additional comfort for everyone around! So if you’re looking for ways bring warmth and comfort into your home—while also saving money on energy costs—consider making the switch from gas fireplaces to wood burning stove today!
Pre-Conversion Steps: Safety Considerations and Supplies Needed
Many people choose to convert their standard garage into a multi-purpose space. This can include converting the space into a home office, recreational area, lounge, workshop, or anything else you can think of that doesn’t require extensive construction. Before you embark on your project, however, there are certain safety considerations and supplies needed to ensure a successful and safe conversion.
Safety Considerations:
First and foremost, when it comes to any conversion project it is important to consider the safety of yourself and anyone working with you. Make sure to do some research ahead of time on proper safety procedures such as properly disposing of materials in case there is asbestos or other hazardous materials inside your garage. Make sure to wear protective eyewear and gloves while working, particularly when dealing with sharp objects or using power tools. You should also make sure that all power cords are unhindered by loose materials or furniture during the process. Additionally, be aware of any pests that may have taken up residence inside the garage before beginning work and take precautions accordingly – don’t forget to check for signs of local wildlife living inside too!
Supplies Needed:
When undertaking any kind of conversion project there are certain supplies needed in order to complete it safely and effectively. Depending on what kind of conversion you plan on performing these supplies may vary but overall they should include items like; screws/nails for attaching items around the room as well as hammers/screwdrivers/etc for assembling them , pliers for dissembling pieces if needed., measuring tape/level for making sure everything is aligned properly., paint brushes/paint for painting walls if applicable., sandpaper for smoothing down rough surfaces., cutters in case anything needs trimming or cutting down.. As well as various other small items depending on your particular DIY skill set (such as an adjustable wrench or saw). With careful planning ahead you can make sure that your conversion project goes without a hitch!
Step One: Shutting Off the Gas
The first step in closing up your natural gas line for a long period of time is to turn off the main shutoff valve. This is typically located near the meter and looks like a large metal wheel or knob. To shut it off, you must turn the valve clockwise until it stops-no further effort required. Once the gas is turned off in this way, be sure to double check that you have effectively done so by trying to light a stove – if no flames come on, your task is complete.
Always practice caution when dealing with any type of fuel source; shutting off a natural gas line requires safety precautions such as wearing protective eyewear and gloves while avoiding any open flames. If possible, have someone nearby during this process to facilitate communication and lend assistance should you ever feel uncertain or uncomfortable during any portion of the process.
Step Two: Removing the Gas Fireplace Insert
The removal of a gas fireplace insert takes time and patience. To begin, make sure the gas supply to the unit has been turned off by a qualified technician. Next, it’s time to remove the casing around the exterior of the insert. This may involve unscrewing screws, or simply taking apart some panels on each side of the insert. It’s important to remember that this process may take some time depending on how long it has been installed for and what type of access points are available for dismantling.
Once you have opened up the surround, you can begin removing any accessories such as glass doors or outer frames that accompany your gas fireplace insert. Be sure to take pictures along the way so you will know exactly where everything goes when putting it back together again. Pay close attention to knobs and screws in order to disconnect all wiring before completely removing them from the unit safely without damaging any other parts.
Now it is time to disable any electrical connections associated with your gas fireplace insert which should be done by a professional trained in working with gas fireplaces and their components if you do not feel comfortable doing this yourself. Once everything has been disconnected and set aside for safe keeping during transport, the final step is to hoist out your gas fireplace using strong straps or an anchoring system found at most hardware stores for heavy lifting around the home. Finally, once you have removed your old insert, you are ready for installation of your new one!
Step Three: Installing the Wood Burning Stove
Installing a wood-burning stove can be a rewarding experience that brings warmth to your home and adds a unique, rustic aesthetic to any living space. It’s also an important safety undertaking that requires careful attention to detail and strict adherence to local building codes and manufacturer installation instructions.
The first step is selecting the location for the wood-burning stove. Be mindful of fire clearances on walls, combustible framing materials, windows, furniture, and other parts of the environment within the room you plan to install it in. Make sure there are no obstacles preventing proper airflow: fresh air is essential for burning safely! Additionally make sure that your chimney flue pipe has proper drafting (this will be determined by where you choose to locate your stove).
Once you have chosen a suitable location it’s time to gather all the necessary materials like your hearth pad or hearth board, stovepipe components and sealant products. Your professional installer should provide specific guidance on this; however have patience as some materials may need special ordering! With all materials in hand it’s time for the actual installation process which includes setting up of support components in accordance with approval labels provided (RA3694 or RA3741). You’ll want to pay close attention here: these steps must comply with local building codes… luckily most approved stoves come with prepackaged flashing kits so half of this job has already been done for you!
Moving along—You’ll want to begin installing corner pieces therefore forming your basic frame structure around the opening where piping will prepare through before connecting onto an approved wall thimble above. Once this is secure its time for securing metal tablocks across each joint using roofer points & screws where required then mirroring these actions across other areas until achieving desired end result…use high temperature cement heat resistant silicone adhesive & gaskets when needed too! Enough said—you’re almost ready… don’t forget secure hangers along top plate & make sure they perfectly align before finalizing any installation work because these really do matter in providing lasting results. Lastly mount vent caps atop walls prior sealing up entire assembly using high temperature caulking/sealant etc….Voila’! You now have fully functioning wood burning stove installed in your home – congratulations!!
FAQs and Top Five Facts about Converting a Gas Fireplace to a Wood Burning Stove
FAQs:
1. What are the benefits of converting a gas fireplace to a wood burning stove?
Answer: Converting a gas fireplace to a wood burning stove can help add warmth, ambiance and charm to your home as well as offer added value. Wood burning stoves are also an efficient and cost effective source of heat and many models have renewable energy sources such as blowers or fans that allow for maximum heating benefits.
2. How much does it cost to convert a gas fireplace to a wood burning stove?
Answer: The cost of converting a gas fireplace to a wood burning stove depends on the type of existing setup, chosen model type, installation services including chimney and flue considerations, as well as any additional materials needed in order to complete the project properly. It’s important to do research before committing in order to ensure you get the best possible deal.
3. What kind of maintenance is involved in keeping my wood burning stove running efficiently?
Answer: Maintenance should be done regularly, depending on usage. Always make sure all ash pans are cleared out after each fire and keep combustible materials away from the area surrounding your stove at all times for safety reasons. Check for leaks regularly by using soapy water and look for cracks in the chimney or flue if necessary—repairing these problems ASAP will save you time and money in the long run. Additionally, check periodically for creosote build-up within your fireplace or flue system which requires professional cleaning if it reaches ½ inch thickness or more.
Top Five Facts About Converting A Gas Fireplace To A Wood Burning Stove:
1. Noise levels can vary widely when operating with a wood burning appliance due to different fan types available on certain models that allow greater airflow control—these can range from near silent operation up to higher decibel levels depending upon system setup and user preference; this makes selecting the right fan style an important factor when choosing your model type!
2. Installing special dampers may be necessary during installation, these act like valves inside exhaust systems that regulate flow—in some cases they may already be included but always ask beforehand just in case!
3. Properly insulated Class A vents (a venting method required by code) not only provide better efficiency but also keep heated air from escaping through drafts whereas Class B does not; always consult with local professionals about the most suitable venting option depending upon environment type before making any final decisions!
4 .Adequately sized fireboxes are essential when determining which model works best – sizing too small will reduce overall performance while staying within limits set forth by NFPA 211 standards ensures optimal results no matter what kind of space you’re trying to heat; heed this advice carefully whether installing new construction or remodeling/retrofitting existing systems! 5 .Finally – remember that proper maintenance goes hand-in-hand with safe operation – regular inspection intervals coupled with appropriate cleaning procedures helps ensure peak performance year round while providing peace-of-mind concerning fire safety needs; don’t forget that even reliable appliances need TLC once in awhile so stay on top things here!:)
