Gas Fireplace Replacement

Some gas fireplaces are worth repairing. Others have reached the point where a new unit makes more sense. We help you work out which one you have.

Repair or replace?

A gas fireplace has a burner, controls, a vent and a firebox. Parts wear, and some units become hard to service as they age. The question is whether the cost and effort of keeping the old one going is justified. The first step is a service visit. See gas fireplace service.

Signs replacement may be the better choice

  • Parts are no longer made, so repairs are hard or short-lived
  • The firebox, glass or frame is damaged or corroded
  • The unit is old and keeps failing
  • It does not heat as it used to, or does not light reliably
  • You want a different size, style or efficiency
  • The venting no longer suits the unit, or the unit no longer suits the room

What replacement involves

StepWhat it means
AssessWe look at the existing unit, its venting and the opening it sits in.
ChooseThe new unit has to fit the opening and the vent, and match your needs.
Remove and installThe old unit comes out and the new one is installed and connected.
TestThe unit is checked and we show you how to use it.

Gas connections, venting and permits are governed by local codes. We tell you what applies to your project before work starts.

What we recommend you consider

  • How you use the fireplace: decoration, supplemental heat or both
  • The size of the opening and the venting you already have
  • Whether the existing venting is in good condition
  • The cost of repair compared with replacement

If a gas fireplace smells of gas, turn off the gas supply if you can do so safely, leave the house, and call your gas utility or 911.

What the work involves

How replacement goes

  1. ServiceWe see what is wrong with the current unit.
  2. CompareWe lay out repair against replacement.
  3. ReplaceWe remove the old unit and install the new one.
  4. TestWe test it and explain how to use it.

Our work

Recent gas fireplace projects

Questions

Frequently asked questions

How long does a gas fireplace last?

It varies with the model and use. Parts, especially controls and glass, often wear before the whole unit does.

Can I put a gas fireplace in place of a wood-burning one?

Often yes, but the flue, venting and opening have to suit the unit. We check this first.

Do gas fireplaces need a chimney inspection?

Yes. Gas appliances that vent through a chimney need the flue to be sound. See gas fireplace service.

Is replacement always better than repair?

No. When a repair is sensible, we recommend it.

Ready to have your chimney looked at?

Call us, or send a scheduling request. We will contact you to confirm a time. Your appointment is not confirmed until we do.