After over 20 years in business, it amazes us how the same questions continue to pop up again and again. Here are some of the most common things we’re asked here at The Gas Log Fire Company.
Can I place a TV above my gas fire?
So, this is probably the most common question we’re asked!
Put simply, yes. However, you need to consider a number of factors such as:
- The distance above the fireplace in comparison to your TV.
- The optimum viewing height.
- Setbacks, shelves and recesses.
Additionally, the individual make and model of the fire must also be taken into account as some fires spill heat up onto the wall-face while others don’t.
While there isn’t really a preferred method for placing a TV above a fireplace, having the likes of recesses, shelves or setbacks see you protecting your TV as much as possible. Such items act to stop the heat getting behind the TV as this can cause functionality issues down the track.
In our experience, landscape or rectangular shaped fires are best for placing a TV above because you’ll still be able to maintain a good viewing height.
Our advice: do your research beforehand so that you don’t make a rather costly mistake. No manufacturer will provide you with exact measurements in their user manuals and none will issue a warrant if you choose to place your TV above your fire but by being mindful of the potential issues, you can save yourself a lot of heartache (and money) in the long-term.
Can I have a gas fire in my outdoor/alfresco area?
Before we can really tackle this one properly, we need more details about your outdoor room. How open or enclosed is it? What’s the space like? These are all issues that must be considered.
Generally, if your alfresco is largely enclosed and protected from the elements, a completely sealed and balanced flue-fire can be considered. Why? Because it gets its fresh air to burn from the outside and expels all flue gases outside. And that’s good news for your alfresco area.
A flueless outdoor gas fire may be an option if at least two sides of your alfresco are completely open.
Our advice? Consult a licensed gasfitter as well as the manufacturer before making any purchase as there are a lot of complex gas regulations in relation to having fires in these areas.
Can I use Caesar stone or reconstituted stone around my new fire?
This one is simple so we’re shouting it loud and clear: NO. And here’s why…
Reconstituted stone more often than not uses resin, which can melt when heated. This causes cracking or melting.
Only natural stone dug out of the ground (we’re talking about marble, granite, blue stone and limestone and so on) can be used here because each will be able to tolerate the heat at play.
What is a balanced or direct vent flue?
This one’s another query that is tossed our way quite often.
A balanced or direct flue is a natural draft flue – it’s completely room sealed. As such, the fire gets its fresh air to burn from the outside skin of the flue, expelling all flue gasses through the inner flue. Some have two individual flues that ultimately achieve the same result.
This is the safest and cleanest flue system that you can get in terms of a gas fire, as it doesn’t have any impact on the quality of the air within a room.
How do I operate my gas log fire?
Gas log fires come in many shapes and forms these days, from very basic decorative options right through to high efficiency, high heat output units.
And as the times have changed, so too have the ways to operate the various functions of your gas log fire.
Manual Ignition:
These types are the original technology and are very basic turn and click manual ignition, very much like lighting an old hot water service or gas cooktop. They use a piezo ignition that creates a spark to light a pilot light. Then you turn a dial to ignite the gas log burner.
Basic wall switches:
These can be low voltage or mains 240 volt ignition but they simply light the gas log fire by the flick of a switch on the wall. These systems can sometimes also be wired into your home automation system so you can operate via a smartphone or Ipad.
Basic On/ Off Remote:
As the name suggests you can have a basic remote for your gas log fire with a simple on and off button.
Advanced remotes:
These new remotes are the by far the best way to operate your gas log fire as you can adjust flame heights and fan speeds to obtain the highest efficiency and most comfortable use of your fire.
They often come with fully programmable thermostats for great comfort control and also setting days and times for your gas log fire to turn on and off. They can also maintain a constant temperature in the room. Some of these remotes come with Apps so you can operate your gas log fire from your smart phone, even when out of the house. Imagine being able to turn on your gas log fire on a cold winters day an hour before you get home to have your house toasty and warm.
As you can see there is plenty to consider when purchasing a gas log fire to meet your specific needs. Check out the video below to learn more about the different types of remotes and controls for your gas log fire.
