Types of fireplaces

What are the main types of gas fireplaces?

Gas fireplaces are produced in two main types, conventional flue and balanced flue gas fireplaces.

Conventional flue gas fireplaces

Conventional flue gas fireplaces (or open combustion gas fires) must always be connected to a chimney in order to function safely and correctly. Air is drawn from the surrounding living area and combined with draught air from the chimney for combustion. Waste gases are then expelled up the chimney and into the atmosphere.

Conventional flue gas fires can be open-fronted or glass-fronted, although most modern gas fireplaces are glass-fronted. This is because a fireplace behind glass is safer and more energy efficient than an open fireplace.

Ventilation points are needed at the front of the fireplace to capture the air flow and to assist in the convection of the radiant heat. Ventilation openings are also required in the outside facing walls of the living room to facilitate effective air flow and ensure comfort and safety.

The firepalces can be combined with elegant surrounds or attractive outer frames to enhance the appearance of the fires.

Balanced flue gas fireplaces

Balanced flue gas fireplaces (or closed combustion gas fireplaces) can be installed with or without a conventional brick chimney.

Air is drawn from outside the building for combustion, with waste gases expelled outside using a concentric flue, which is connected to the top of the fireplace and inserted through an outside facing wall.

All balanced flue gas fireplaces are room-sealed, glass-fronted appliances. As well as being attractive in appearance, they provide high levels of comfort due to the fact that the oxygen levels in the home are not being depleted.

Balanced flue gas fireplaces also have higher-than-average energy efficiency ratings, due to their closed combustion system and modern fireplace engineering standards.

Although it is possible to install a balanced flue gas fire into a standard chimney, most are installed into a false chimneybreast, which replicates the appearance of a brick fireplace. The false chimneybreast cleverly conceals the fireplace engine and flue, revealing just the interior with its realistic fire bed.

This in turn can be combined with natural stone fire surrounds or a wide selection of beautiful, tailor-made outer frames to enhance the appearance of the fireplaces.

Elegant, comfortable and energy efficient, balanced flue gas fireplaces are an inspired choice for period or contemporary homes.