There’s nothing like cozying up next to your fireplace on a chilly evening with your loved ones, especially in the colder seasons.
Fireplaces, specifically, gas fireplaces, such as propane-fueled ones, are gaining wide popularity nowadays.
If you’re thinking about getting a propane fireplace, you might be still unsure about the cost-effectiveness and have a lot of questions. You might be thinking of ‘how long do propane fireplaces last?’
Generally, propane fireplaces can last you up to 15-25 years. However, that also heavily depends on your usage.
Well, we’re here to help you figure out how propane fireplaces work as well as their lifespan.
How Do Propane Fireplaces Work
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Wood burning fireplaces have become quite outdated in recent years. Gas fireplaces have become the new trend. Propane fireplaces are one of the types of gas fireplaces used in the industry.
Propane is a commonly used fuel source in the countryside and rural areas. It’s also used in barbecues. Their entrance into the fireplace market was a real game-changer.
Propane fireplaces will provide you with an exceptional heating system. Unlike electric fireplaces, they engulf your home with warmth in just a few moments.
Which Venting Type Works Best
Your fireplace can be vented, ventless, or use a direct vent line plan. Some types are more accommodating to propane fireplaces than others. Here’s a good run-down for each type.
Vented Fireplaces
As the name suggests, vented fireplaces use a chimney to exhaust out the fire’s emissions. These aren’t typically used for propane fireplaces.
Ventless Fireplace
Ventless fireplaces, on the other hand, are a closed heat source. Propane fireplaces operate in a vent-free zone.
You might be wondering how it works. Well, the fireplaces draw in the room’s air to support combustion which then produces heat. The continued circulation is what quickens the heating process in a room.
Direct Vent Line Fireplace
If you have a direct vent, you’re in luck. This type of fireplace uses outdoor air, rather than indoor air like ventless fireplaces. The air is sucked in through a double vent pipe.
How Long Do Propane Fireplaces Last
The average lifespan of the fireplace can make or break your decision. Like any home appliance, you’d want your money’s worth. You wouldn’t want to invest in a fireplace that breaks down easily.
Generally, propane fireplaces can last you up to 15-25 years. However, that also heavily depends on your usage. In other words, the more your burn, the faster you’ll need a replacement.
That being so, replacements might not be a necessity in certain cases. For instance, your propane fireplace might just need a repair. In other instances, it could just need some good ol’ professional maintenance.
Either way, we recommend that you don’t give up so easily on your propane fireplace, there might be some light at the end of the tunnel.
It’s also worth noting that in some scenarios repairing your propane fireplace might cost more than just getting a replacement. Ultimately, you should always weigh both options to see which is the most cost-effective and convenient.
How Much Propane Do You Need to Use For Your Fireplace
To evaluate the advantages of using a propane fireplace, you’re probably going to want to know how much fuel you’ll be burning. The standard usage in numbers is 1 gallon of propane can equate to a 100,000 British Thermal Unit (BTU).
This means that if your fireplace’s energy required rate is at 50,000 BTU, you’ll need to add one gallon of propane every two hours you’re using it.
Nevertheless, propane usage can depend on several other factors. Let’s explore each in more detail.
Outdoor Weather
The colder it is outside, the more propane you’ll use, while warmer months save more fuel.
Temperature Setting
The beauty of using a gas fireplace is that you get to control your temperature setting. This means that you get full control of how much BTU you’re using.
If your house needs to be fully heated, you’re going to be turning up your temperature setting to where you’ll be using the maximum BTU rating. Higher BTU means higher energy usage.
If you enjoy the ambiance of the fire but don’t necessarily need the heat, then all you have to do is cut back on your gas supply. This will be sure to conserve your propane usage.
Fireplace Size
This is one of the most significant factors that will determine how much propane you’ll use in your fireplace. Since propane use depends on the BTU rating of the fireplace, the higher the BTU, the more fuel your fireplace will need.
This is why we recommend making sure you get a propane fireplace that matches your room’s space. If your room is considerably small-spaced, then it would be wasteful to get a 91,500 BTU-rated fireplace. Instead, we advise you to look for a 34,000 BTU-rated fireplace.
Why Should You Use a Propane Fireplace
There are various reasons you should use propane fireplaces. Here are some of the benefits of using a propane fireplace.
- Propane gas is generally more eco-friendly. It doesn’t emit as many harmful gases, such as carbon monoxide, unlike wood-burning fireplaces.
- They don’t require electricity. This gives it a superior advantage next to electric fireplaces. They’ll go easy on your electricity bill.
- They’re relatively low maintenance. Since this fireplace is gas-fueled, rather than firewood-powered, it won’t smear the region with ash and soot.
- Propane fireplaces are user-friendly. You can ignite your fire with a push or switch of a button. You’ll also be able to regulate the amount of heat you need.
How To Maintain Your Propane Fireplace
If you’re looking to increase your propane fireplace’s longevity, here are a few simple steps to get you started.
Clean Everything
Cleaning your propane fireplace is probably the most crucial step to increasing its lifespan. Make sure you clean your faux media, which means your gas logs. Keep your fireplace free from any ashes or debris straying around.
This will help prevent any blockages from occurring as well as build up which will heat up your fireplace and eventually cause cracks to appear.
You should also make sure your glass is clean from any stains. Make sure your glass is dry before starting your fire once more.
Perform Inspections
Annual inspections will make sure all your propane fireplace’s components are working fine. If there are any replacements or repairs needed, consult your local professional.
Conclusion
With proper care and maintenance, your propane fireplace can last you a long period of time. Brushing up on some gas fireplace knowledge is always a good idea to get a better idea of how you should treat your propane fireplace.
After understanding how they function and their requirements, we’re sure you’ll be able to get your money’s worth out of your propane fireplace.
