When we bought our place in '04 it came with a brand new gas log insert inside an older brick fireplace. Gas logs are, I assume, meant to be used primarily for looks as are pretty much useless as a heat source. Since it was brand new and recently installed by Mr. Fireplace in Laconia (now out of business) they agreed to take it back as a trade in towards a fully enclosed fireplace insert. We now use that insert as the primary heat source on that level while we are there. We've had no issues with it and it heats the place just fine. Our last place has a wood stove, which I loved. Although you really can't compare the cozy feeling of a wood fire with what you get from a gas insert it sure is a lot cleaner and less hassle to deal with. One click on the remote and you're good to go.
As for installation, you'll need to have a plummer bring the gas line (we use propane) and an electrician bring power (for the fan) to the firebox. Whoever installs the insert will most likely install an aluminum flu inside your existing brick flu. Perhaps whoever you buy the insert from can do the entire installation, or least coordinate the whole process.
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La vita è buona su Isola Gatto Nero
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