Your Trusted Source...
For Comfort & Warmth!

Ask the Experts

What does it mean when brochures and websites refer to BTU’s?

BTU’s or British Thermal Units are a standard measurement which represents the heat value of any type of energy used to create heat. BTU values of any type of energy are determined by the actual amount of heat that is required to increase the temperature of one pound of water, by one degree Fahrenheit. In other words, the higher the BTU rating on a fireplace, the more heat you can expect to receive from it. A standard size fireplace is generally rater

Can I plan to put a flat screen television above my fireplace unit?

Yes, as long as the minimum “clearance to combustibles” as per stated directly in the manufacturers printed manual are met. Even though the TV may be placed outside of the clearances, it is best to make sure it is safe to do so, as electronics can only withstand far lower temperatures than wood for example. Each unit will have a different set of clearances so it is best to check both the manufacturers guide, as well as ask a fireplace professional.

How close to a combustible wall can a stove be installed?

Depending on the type of unit that you choose, new production methods of gas stoves have allowed for the unit to sit anywhere from 6” to 2” from a combustible rear or side wall! Making a gas stove a great option in terms of heating capacity vs. required usable space in the home. It is always best to check with manufacturer guidelines and an installation professional to make sure you have safety located a unit.

Does a direct vent fireplace or stove need to be on an outside wall?

No! Direct vent units can be most easily vented on an outside wall, although various other methods are available to suit different settings. It is best to inquire with a professional fireplace dealer or installer to see how a gas unit will best fit into your home.

How far must the propane tank be from my house?

The tank can be very flexible as to location, but must be a minimum of 3ft from home openings (windows, doors, etc.) and must maintain at least 10ft from any form of mechanical exhausts, intakes, or heat pump systems. As well, the tank cannot be within 10ft of your fireplace’s direct vent terminal which both exhausts and takes fresh air in to the unit from outside.

When should I be looking for an insert as opposed to a zero-clearance fireplace?

Fireplace inserts are designed to fit within an existing fire-rated masonry opening which was originally used as an open wood burning application. Zero-clearance options are designed to sit in an area of choice and are meant to be built into the space by a surround, mantle, or other means.

Should I leave my pilot light running when I am not using the stove/fireplace?

During the fall and winter months when the fireplace is most in demand, even though electronic ignition systems allow for the turn off/on of the pilot with ease, in our climate it can be very risky to let the unit sit stagnant in regards to cold weather and increased moisture which enter through the fresh air portion of the venting at all times. Don't forget, without your pilot light the inside of your unit is the same temperature as the outside! Over exposure to these temperatures can cause the pilot to seize and fail when you really need it the most.

Will my gas fireplace operate when the power is out?

Yes! Your unit will operate and heat sufficiently through radiant means even when the power is out. Certain functions such as optional fans or blower kits and types of electronic ignition systems will rely on the electricity in the home.

What is the difference between a Direct Vent and a B-Vent option for gas fireplaces and stoves?

With a direct vent, the air required to burn the unit is pulled through a termination located outside the home and into a sealed firebox and sends flue gases back out of the home through the inside portion of the vent. B-vent takes air from within the home and gravity vents the flue product back up and out of the pipe to the outside. B-vent is only available on certain units and is only appropriate in certain settings, be sure to ask your fireplace professional which is right for your home.

Must all gas fireplaces be vented through the roof?

No! A majority of the gas fireplaces produced today across various manufacturers can be direct vented easily out through a side wall with a small vent kit, as long as the unit is installed along an outside wall.


West Nova Propane

Sign up to receive

Announcements & Special Promotions

* indicates required
 

Ask the Experts

Does a direct vent fireplace or stove need to be on an outside wall?

No! Direct vent units can be most easily vented on an outside wall, although various other methods are available to suit different settings. It is best to inquire with a professional fireplace dealer or installer to see how a gas unit will best fit into your home.