By Adrianna Noton

Gas fireplaces refer to use of gas as source of heat to provide heating and warmth to houses especially during cold seasons to beat the chill. This is most common in temperate countries that experience winter seasons. Previously people had been using firewood to light fire to warm them. This led to massive destruction of forests which has greatly contributed to drought situations in many countries. Gas is therefore the best alternative source of heat.

It has so many advantages over other heat sources in that it is very clean, safe, and easy to manage or use. Unlike firewood, it does not produce ash and smoke which are environmental pollutants. It also saves space as this facility occupies a fairly reasonable space. Managing it is easy as it is regulated by valves thus one controls the amount of gas supplied to burn depending on the amount of heat required. The desired temperature is maintained constant unlike in firewood where temperature is high at some instance and extremely low at other instances.

Increasing its efficiency is also very easy. It is important to turn the main heating system down when running the firebox. The glass casing when thoroughly cleaned ensures adequate heat is supplied to the house as dirt particles absorbs some heat thus wasting heat energy if the glass is dirty. When the user is not using the facility on a daily basis, it is advisable to shut off the pilot light.

Maintenance and repair of it should be done just before the heating season begins thus making sure the unit is well serviced before using it. Observing these factors lead to saving a lot of energy and thus increasing the efficiency of the facility.

Safety measures must also be adhered to in order to ensure maximum safety while using it. Failing to follow these precautions makes it the most dangerous type of heating as there is a high risk of explosion. The most common measures are;

One should strictly follow the specifications of the manufacturer and procedures of using this heating system. This is made possible by reading the manual carefully before starting to use a new heating unit. In case it spoils, one should always contact a heating contractor who has been approved and recommended by the manufacturer or the relevant body regulating the use of energy.

Cleaning the fireplace is very important; clothes, furniture, curtains and any other highly flammable product must be kept far away from fireplaces. Carbon monoxide detector must be installed near it to help identify any gases leaking. Unusual odors must be immediately reported to avoid cases of fire accidents from occurring.

It should be well ventilated to allow entrance of air to assist in combustion and also to create room for products of combustion to leave the unit. There are two major types of venting, natural draft venting applies a vertical chimney that connects the firebox to the atmosphere thus helping eliminate combustion products to the atmosphere and allowing in air to promote combustion.

The other type utilizes electricity to power the fun. This type of venting is suitable to places where these gases of combustion are not possibly used.

About the Author: Visit our showroom today to see our large selection of fireplaces in Waterloo Ontario; whether you are looking for an electric, gas or wood fireplaces in Conestoga and Waterloo, we will have the right one for your home. We also carry mantles and fireplace accessories.

Source: isnare.com

Permanent Link: isnare.com/?aid=1104322&ca=Home+Management