As sub-zero temperatures are setting in, homes around the UK are hunkering down for winter. Luckily there are plenty of ways to keep warm and the best of which include wrapping up in cosy clothes and cranking up the heat on your gas fireplace.
But what if you haven’t invested yet?
If your current fireplace is nearing the end of its useful life, it may be time to shop around for a new one but choosing the right gas fire means paying careful attention to certain measurements, specifications and installation requirements. – You can’t just pick the first one that catches your eye!
So before purchasing you should ask yourself the some important questions.
Is It Energy Efficient?
Homeowners searching for a gas fire should pay close attention to each appliance’s energy efficiency rating. Doing this means you can compare models and determine which ones offers the best value for money.
So, what is energy efficiency, and why is it so important?
The term refers to how well the fireplace converts gas into heat for your home. When gas burns in the fireplace, some of the energy is used to produce heat, while the rest is lost, typically through ventilation systems or the chimney.
Over the years, technological advancements and stricter regulations have significantly improved the ratings of gas fireplaces. Not too long ago, they operated at around 40-50% though now you can get modern gas fires for your house, boasting energy efficiencies as high as 70-90%!
By picking an appliance with a higher rating, you may be able to generate more heat for less.
Is It The Right Size/Heat Output?
You don’t want to have a gas fireplace delivered only to realise it’s the wrong size.
If you have a small room, a fire that’s too large can make the temperature of the room uncomfortable. On the other side, if it’s too small for your large room, it may struggle to heat the space. It’s a balancing act, one that requires you to pay attention to the dimensions of an appliance.
To determine the right size, start by measuring your room’s dimensions (length, width, and height) to calculate its volume. Having this measurement may help you estimate the required heat output, which is usually expressed in kilowatts (kW) or British Thermal Units (BTUs).
For example, a well-insulated room measuring 4 x 5 metres and with a standard ceiling height would require a gas fire with a heat output of approximately 3 to 5 kW.
Is It Within Budget?
While it’s tempting to choose a model based solely on appearance, putting heat output and energy efficiency first can lead to long-term savings.
For example, some ‘contemporary’ models may seem like the ideal fit from an appearance-only perspective, however if they have a lower energy efficiency rating, their higher price point could be a disappointing investment.
You should also consider that regular servicing is necessary to keep your gas fire operating safely. Although fees for annual servicing may vary, it’s important to factor these points into your budget.
Does It Look Right?
If you’ve selected a few fires that a.) have the right heat output and b.) have an acceptable energy efficiency rating, then you can start looking at style.
For those who love a more classic feel, outset gas fires are worth considering. They sit out from the wall and are great for period properties (they also tend to pack a punch when it comes to heat output).
If you’re looking for something that doesn’t take up floor space, consider a hole-in-the-wall gas fire. These appliances fit neatly into a pre-existing recess. For an eye-catching addition, double-sided fires make great room dividers.
