Gas vs. Wood Fireplace: A Homeowner’s Guide To Maintenance

Whether it’s the crackle of burning wood or the instant warmth, a fireplace is what brings a cozy and warm feeling and ambiance to your home. When it comes to maintaining a gas versus a wood fireplace, the differences are notable. While both offer a variety of benefits, they come with very different cleaning routines. Understanding these differences will help you save time and money in the long run. Valley Chimney does not service fireplaces that do not have a vent. Instead, we service gas logs that vent into a chimney. 

Gas vs. Wood Fireplace: The Differences 

Gas Fireplace

A gas fireplace is known for its convenience and cleanliness. With the press of a simple button, you welcome in instant heat and flames that can run on natural gas or propane. This option does not require the same level of involvement as a wood fireplace. Models are typically vented through a pipe or wall, but some models are vent-free and designed for indoor use, eliminating the need for a chimney. 

1. Pros: 

• Easily started and simple control
• Minimal debris (no ash, soot, or creosote)
• Energy-efficient and consistent

2. Cons:

• Less traditional 
• A gas line is needed
• Risk of gas leaks occurring
• Needs routine professional servicing

3. Different Types of Gas Fireplaces:
   • Direct Vent: Utilizes a sealed combustion system with an external vent, ensuring both efficiency and safety.
   • Ventless: This type of gas fireplace requires no chimney or external vent. All the heat generated stays inside the home, but this type of fireplace can often lead to air quality issues.
   • Insert and Gas Logs: This option is installed into a wood fireplace and is connected to a gas line. This option is considered the safer route when it comes to gas fireplaces. 

Wood Fireplace

Wood-burning fireplaces offer the traditional, classic aesthetic of crackling flames and the smell of burning wood. 

1. Pros:
   • Traditional experience
   • Works without electricity
   • Lower fuel cost

2. Cons:
   • Time-consuming to start and maintain a fire
   • Regular cleanup of debris like ash, soot, and creosote
   • Less energy-efficient
3. Types of Wood Fireplaces:
   • Masonry: This is built into the home using brick or stone and typically includes a chimney and an open hearth. 
   • Wood Inserts: This is a more efficient unit installed into a pre-existing masonry fireplace. It is designed to increase heat output while burning wood. 

While both options offer significant benefits to your home, they have several key differences, particularly in terms of maintenance. 

Gas vs. Wood Fireplace Maintenance: What You Need to Know 

Gas vs. Wood fireplace maintenance can be drastically different. A wood fireplace requires hands-on care, while a gas fireplace is typically more low-maintenance. 

Wood Fireplace Maintenance

1. Chimney Cleaning: Regular cleaning is necessary, as well as an annual professional sweep. Without routine cleaning and sweeping, a buildup of creosote will occur. Creosote is created when wood burns and leaves a residue inside the fireplace and chimney. This material is highly flammable, especially when there is an excess of buildup. 
2. Damage: Inspect the firebox, damper, and chimney cap regularly for any signs of damage. Inspect for cracks, rust, or blockages that may compromise the quality of the wood fireplace. 
3. Burning the Right Wood: Using seasoned hardwoods like oak, maple, or birch will produce less creosote and have the best burn for fires. Wet woods, such as pine, will create more creosote and smoke inside the home. 

Gas Fireplace Maintenance

1. Inspections: A professional should conduct an annual inspection to check for gas leaks, worn parts, and proper ventilation. 
2. Cleaning: The inside of the glass can become dirty and cloudy due to residue accumulation over time. Be sure to use a cleaner specifically designed for gas fireplaces to remove residue without damaging the surface. 
3. Ventilation: Regularly check for blockages in the vent and flue. Blockages can increase the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning inside your home. 
4. Batteries: Most gas fireplaces rely on a remote control for turning on and adjusting the fireplace’s settings. To ensure a smooth-running fire, be sure to replace your batteries when needed. 
5. Watching for Hazardous Signs: If you notice unusual smells, soot around the fireplace, or difficulty lighting the flame, this could indicate a serious issue that needs professional maintenance. 

Gas Fireplaces are typically easier to maintain and do not require as much hands-on care as a wood fireplace might. However, both options need regular maintenance for efficiency and safety reasons. 

Gas vs. Wood Fireplace: DIY vs Professional Help

When it comes to maintenance and upkeep, you may not be able to perform every task without professional help, regardless of whether you have a wood or gas fireplace. Knowing when to bring in professional help can reduce hazards and risks within your home. 

Calling Professionals for a Gas Fireplace

While gas fireplaces may be low-maintenance, they still have complex systems, such as gas lines, electrical components, and ventilation systems, that may require professional assistance. If you have a chimney-vented gas fireplace, you should call a professional for: 

• Annual Inspection: Certified professionals will be able to inspect the gas valve, venting, and other components that untrained homeowners may overlook or be unaware of. 
• Glass Removal and Deep Cleaning: If you need glass removal, hiring a professional ensures a proper reseal. Deep cleaning should also be left to experts, as they are more familiar with the internal components than most homeowners. 
• Gas Leaks: If you ever smell gas, hear hissing noises, or have trouble lighting your fireplace, turn off the system and call a professional immediately. 

Calling Professionals for a Wood Fireplace

Wood-burning fireplaces are seen as more high-maintenance. To ensure long-term safety and efficiency, hire a professional when you need a: 

• Chimney Sweep: A sweep should be done at least once a year, or more frequently, depending on how often you use the fireplace. 
• Chimney Inspections: Having a professional perform an inspection will ensure there are no structural issues, cracked flue liners, or blockages. 
• Firebox Repairs: If the masonry or firebox needs repair, call a professional. 
• Draft Problems: When smoke enters your home, it can indicate a deeper issue that requires expert attention as soon as possible. 

Gas vs. Wood Fireplace: Schedule your Fireplace Needs with Valley Chimney!

Whether you want to install a gas or wood fireplace or perform maintenance on your system, Valley Chimney has you covered! At Valley Chimney Sweep, we specialize in maintaining and servicing fireplaces that vent through a chimney. Contact us today to schedule an installation, chimney sweep, inspection, or cleaning.