Author: Sean Summers, NFI Master Hearth Certified Technician – WoodstovePro.com

Your wood stove relies on airtight seals to burn efficiently and safely. Over time, the gaskets around the door, glass, and sometimes the ash pan can wear out, loosen, or fall apart - leading to overheating, smoke leaks, and unpredictable burns. That’s why door seal replacement is one of the most important (and often overlooked) parts of routine stove maintenance.

Here’s how to know when it’s time to replace your wood stove gaskets - and how to do the job correctly using a wood stove gasket kit.

Why Gasket Condition Matters for Safety and Performance

Gaskets create an airtight seal that controls how much air enters the combustion chamber. When seals fail:

• You lose control over the burn rate
  
  
• The stove can overheat
  
  
• Smoke may leak into the home
  
  
• Efficiency drops dramatically
  
  
• Creosote can build up faster
  
  

Worn gaskets are not just inconvenient, they’re a serious safety issue.

Signs Your Wood Stove Gasket Needs to Be Replaced

1. The Door Feels Loose or Won’t Stay Shut

A working latch should seal the door tightly. If it doesn’t, the gasket has likely compressed or deteriorated.

2. You See Frayed, Cracked, or Missing Gasket Material

Visual wear is the clearest indicator that the gasket is no longer sealing properly.

3. You Notice Excessive Smoke or Difficulty Controlling the Fire

A leaking door introduces extra oxygen, causing the fire to burn too hot or too fast.

4. You Can Slide a Dollar Bill Out of a Closed Door

The classic “dollar test”:

• Close the door on a bill
  
  
• Try to pull it out
  
  
• If it slides easily, you need a new gasket
  
  

Test around multiple sections of the door for accuracy.

How to Replace a Wood Stove Gasket the Right Way

Replacing a gasket is a simple DIY task when you use a wood stove gasket kit, which typically includes the rope gasket and high-temperature adhesive.

Step 1: Remove the Old Gasket

Pull off the old rope and scrape out any remaining adhesive. A wire brush works well for this.

Step 2: Clean the Channel Thoroughly

This ensures the new gasket sits correctly and seals tightly.

Step 3: Apply High-Temp Adhesive

Follow your stove manufacturer’s instructions. Apply a thin, even bead along the gasket channel.

Step 4: Press in the New Gasket

Gently press the gasket rope into the adhesive, ensuring it sits evenly without stretching.

Step 5: Trim Excess and Close the Door

Allow the adhesive to set (usually 1–2 hours). Closing the door helps shape the gasket.

Step 6: Test the Seal Again

Use the dollar test to verify a proper seal once the adhesive cures.

How Often Should You Replace Your Gasket?

Most wood stove gaskets last 1–3 years, depending on stove usage and heat intensity. We recommend inspecting them at the start and end of each heating season as part of routine stove maintenance.

Final Thoughts

A fresh gasket restores proper airflow, improves efficiency, reduces creosote buildup, and enhances overall safety. Whether you’re noticing draft issues or just refreshing your stove for winter, a simple door seal replacement can make a major difference in performance.

Need help finding the right wood stove gasket kit or replacement parts? Our hearth experts are here to help. Contact us at 888-418-0005 or info@woodstovepro.com.

Author: Sean Summers, NFI Master Hearth Certified Technician – WoodstovePro.com

A gas fireplace is one of the easiest ways to bring instant warmth and ambiance into your home. Among the available options, vent-free gas fireplaces often attract homeowners because they require no chimney or exterior venting. But while they offer convenience and high efficiency, they also come with specific considerations - especially around gas fireplace emissions and indoor air safety.

To help you make an informed decision, here are the key pros and cons of vent-free fireplaces, based on the questions homeowners ask most.

What Is a Vent-Free Gas Fireplace?

A vent-free gas fireplace burns extremely cleanly, allowing exhaust gases to remain inside the home instead of venting outdoors. These units are engineered to operate within strict safety and efficiency guidelines, producing minimal emissions when functioning properly.

Because they don’t require a chimney, venting system, or exterior wall penetration, they can be installed in places where traditional fireplaces can’t.

Pros of Vent-Free Gas Fireplaces

1. Easy, Flexible Installation

One of the biggest vent-free fireplace benefits is the ability to install them almost anywhere—living rooms, bedrooms (where allowed), basements, or even small spaces that lack exterior walls. They require no vent pipe, making installation simpler and more affordable.

2. High Heating Efficiency

Because all the heat stays inside the home, vent-free fireplaces achieve nearly 100% efficiency. This makes them excellent supplemental heaters, especially in areas prone to cold drafts.

3. Lower Operating Costs

With no heat loss through a chimney and a highly clean-burning design, vent-free units often cost less to run compared to vented gas fireplaces.

4. Realistic Flame Appearance

Modern vent-free fireplaces use well-engineered burners and logs to create vivid, attractive flames—very close in appearance to traditional gas fireplaces.

Cons of Vent-Free Gas Fireplaces

1. Indoor Air Safety Regulations

Because vent-free systems keep gas fireplace emissions indoors, they must meet strict manufacturer guidelines and building codes. Some states or municipalities restrict or prohibit their use due to indoor air safety concerns.

Common emissions considerations include:

• Water vapor (can increase indoor humidity)
  
  
• Trace amounts of combustion byproducts
  
  
• Oxygen depletion sensors (ODS systems) required for safety

2. Not Ideal for Every Home or Room Size

Vent-free units require a minimum room size for safe operation. Small rooms, tightly sealed modern homes, or spaces with poor airflow may not be suitable.

3. Reduced Flame Customization

Because the burners are tuned to burn extremely cleanly, you may have fewer options for flame appearance compared to direct vent units, which allow more flexibility in shaping and coloring the flame.

4. Restrictions on Decorative Elements

Certain materials—like some glass beads or stones—cannot be used with vent-free appliances because they may alter the burn pattern or affect safety.

When Is a Vent-Free Gas Fireplace a Good Choice?

These units work well for homeowners who want:

• High-efficiency supplemental heat
  
  
• A lower installation cost
  
  
• A fireplace where venting isn’t possible
  
  
• Quick, flexible placement options
  
  

However, they require careful adherence to safety guidelines and may not be allowed everywhere.

Final Thoughts

Vent-free gas fireplaces offer convenience, flexibility, and exceptional heating efficiency—but they also require thoughtful consideration of indoor air safety and local codes. Understanding the balance of benefits and limitations can help you choose the right gas fireplace for your home.

If you're unsure whether a vent-free model fits your space, our hearth professionals can help you evaluate your home’s layout and safety requirements. Contact us at 888-418-0005 or info@woodstovepro.com.

Author: Sean Summers, NFI Master Hearth Certified Technician – WoodstovePro.com

If you’re shopping for a new wood stove, you’ve probably noticed the term “EPA certified stove” on many modern models. But what exactly does that certification mean—and why does it matter for efficiency, performance, and the environment?

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) sets national emissions standards for residential wood-burning appliances. These rules are designed to ensure that new stoves burn cleaner, release less particulate matter, and use fuel more efficiently. 

Let’s break down the essentials of EPA certification and what it means for homeowners.

What Is an EPA Certified Wood Stove?

An EPA certified stove is a wood-burning appliance that meets strict federal emissions standards designed to reduce smoke, airborne particles, and pollutants. Certification requires laboratory testing under controlled conditions to ensure the stove burns as cleanly and efficiently as advertised.

EPA-certified stoves use advanced combustion technology to:

• Burn wood more completely
  
  
• Reduce smoke output
  
  
• Increase heat efficiency
  
  
• Lower creosote buildup inside the chimney
  
  

This results in a fire that’s not only cleaner—but also hotter, safer, and more cost-effective.

Why Do Emissions Standards Matter?

Older, uncertified stoves can produce up to 70% more emissions than modern units. Excess smoke harms indoor air quality, contributes to chimney creosote buildup, and pollutes outdoor air.

Current wood stove regulations limit particulate emissions to ensure responsible heating. Certified stoves:

• Burn fuel more completely
  
  
• Produce fewer health-harming particles
  
  
• Reduce chimney maintenance needs
  
  
• Support cleaner air in your neighborhood
  
  

For homeowners, this means improved performance and peace of mind that your stove meets modern environmental expectations.

Are EPA Certified Stoves More Efficient?

Yes—significantly. Today’s clean burning stoves are engineered with secondary burn systems, catalytic combustors, or advanced firebox designs that ignite gases and particulates before they escape into the chimney.

Benefits include:

• More heat from every log
  
  
• Longer burn times
  
  
• Less wood consumption
  
  
• Reduced ash production
  
  
• Cleaner glass windows
  
  

You get more warmth with fewer resources, lowering your heating costs over the long term.

Do All Wood Stoves Need to Be EPA Certified?

Under federal wood stove regulations, most new wood stoves sold in the United States must be EPA certified. Older stoves purchased before the regulations took effect may remain in use, but they cannot be resold in some jurisdictions.

If you're upgrading from an older stove, choosing a certified model ensures:

• Compliance with local regulations
  
  
• Safer operation
  
  
• Cleaner burns
  
  
• Improved heat output
  
  

And in many cases, it may make you eligible for federal or state incentives tied to high-efficiency appliances.

Final Thoughts

Choosing an EPA-certified wood stove ensures you’re investing in a cleaner, safer, and more efficient heating system. These clean burning stoves meet strict environmental standards, reduce fuel costs, and deliver exceptional performance across the heating season.

If you’re unsure which stove is right for your home, our certified hearth professionals are here to help. Reach us at 888-418-0005 or info@woodstovepro.com.

Author: Sean Summers, NFI Master Hearth Certified Technician – WoodstovePro.com

A fireplace or wood stove adds comfort and warmth to your home, but the right fireplace accessories make using it safer, cleaner, and far more convenient. From protecting your floors to managing ash and firewood, these essential accessories help homeowners enjoy their hearth with confidence and ease throughout the heating season.

Here are the top fireplace accessories every homeowner should consider for safer, simpler heating.

1. Hearth Pads: Protect Floors and Meet Safety Requirements

A hearth pad is one of the most important safety accessories for wood stoves and freestanding fireplaces. Designed to protect floors from sparks, embers, and radiant heat, hearth pads also help installations meet manufacturer and code clearance requirements.

Benefits of a hearth pad include:

• Fire-resistant floor protection
• Added safety around high-heat appliances
• Durable materials like tile, stone, glass, or steel
• Decorative designs that complement your space

If you’re installing or upgrading a stove, a properly sized hearth pad is essential.

2. Fireplace Screens: Contain Sparks and Embers

A fireplace screen provides a critical safety barrier between your fire and your living space. Screens help prevent sparks, popping embers, and rolling logs from escaping the firebox - especially important in homes with pets or children.

Common screen styles include:

• Flat mesh screens
• Folding screens
• Hinged or framed screen doors

In addition to safety, fireplace screens add a polished, finished look to your hearth.

3. Ash Vacuums: Clean Up Safely and Efficiently

An ash vacuum is specifically designed to handle fine ash and cold embers that regular household vacuums cannot safely manage. These vacuums feature metal canisters, heat-resistant hoses, and fine filtration to contain dust.

Why use an ash vacuum:

• Safer ash removal
• Less mess and airborne dust
• Faster cleanup after fires
• Protects your regular vacuum from damage

Always make sure ashes are completely cool before vacuuming.

4. Log Carriers: Keep Firewood Organized and Contained

A log carrier makes transporting firewood easier while keeping bark, dirt, and debris off your floors. Available in canvas, leather, and metal styles, log carriers offer both convenience and visual appeal.

Benefits include:

• Easier wood transport
• Cleaner indoor storage
• Reduced mess near the hearth
• Stylish accent for your fireplace area

Pairing a log carrier with an indoor wood rack helps keep firewood tidy and accessible.

5. Tool Sets and Ash Buckets: Everyday Essentials

No hearth setup is complete without basic tools. Fireplace tool sets typically include a poker, tongs, shovel, and brush—allowing you to manage fires safely. Ash buckets with tight-fitting lids provide a safe way to store and dispose of ashes.

Together, these accessories simplify daily fireplace use and improve overall safety.

Final Thoughts

The right fireplace accessories make heating safer, easier, and more enjoyable. From hearth pads and fireplace screens to ash vacuums and log carriers, each accessory plays a role in protecting your home and simplifying hearth maintenance.

If you need help choosing accessories that match your fireplace or stove, our hearth experts are here to help. Contact us at 888-418-0005 or info@woodstovepro.com.

Author: Sean Summers, NFI Master Hearth Certified Technician – WoodstovePro.com

As temperatures drop and heating season intensifies, your fireplace or stove should be at the top of your winter home prep list. A little preventative fireplace maintenance now can help you avoid safety hazards, performance issues, and unexpected repairs later. Whether you burn wood, pellets, or gas, preparing your hearth properly is essential for comfort and fireplace safety all winter long.

Use this checklist to make sure your hearth is ready before the first fire of the season.

#1: Schedule a Chimney Inspection and Cleaning

A professional inspection is the most important item on any chimney cleaning checklist. Over time, soot, creosote, debris, and even animal nests can build up inside the flue—restricting airflow and increasing fire risk.

Before heating season begins, make sure a certified chimney professional:

• Cleans creosote and soot buildup
• Inspects the chimney liner for cracks or corrosion
• Checks draft performance
• Confirms the chimney cap is secure and clear

Annual chimney inspections are essential for safe operation.

#2: Check the Firebox and Surrounding Components

Inspect the interior of your fireplace or stove for visible wear or damage. Look for:

• Cracked firebrick or panels
• Warped metal components
• Rust or flaking surfaces
• Loose grates or baffles

Addressing these issues early helps maintain proper airflow and prevents heat from escaping into unsafe areas.

#3: Inspect Door Seals, Gaskets, and Glass

Tight seals are critical for controlling combustion and preventing smoke leaks. As part of routine fireplace maintenance, check that:

• Door gaskets are flexible and intact
• The door closes snugly
• Glass is clean and free of cracks

If you can pull a dollar bill out easily when the door is closed, it’s time to replace the gasket.

#4: Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Fireplace use increases the importance of working alarms. As part of your winter home prep, test all smoke and carbon monoxide detectors near sleeping areas and hearth spaces.

Replace batteries if needed and ensure detectors are properly positioned according to manufacturer guidelines.

#5: Prepare the Right Fuel

Using the correct fuel improves safety and efficiency:

• Burn only seasoned firewood with moisture content below 20%
• Store wood off the ground and covered on top
• Use approved pellets for pellet stoves
• Never burn trash, treated wood, or cardboard

Proper fuel reduces creosote buildup and supports cleaner burns.

#6: Clean and Stage Fireplace Accessories

Before your first fire, clean and organize:

• Fireplace grates
• Screens or spark guards
• Tool sets
• Ash buckets
• Hearth rugs

Make sure spark protection is in place—especially in homes with pets or children.

#7: Review Your Appliance Manual and Safety Guidelines

If it’s been a while since you last used your fireplace or stove, take a few minutes to review operating instructions. Confirm:

• Proper startup procedures
• Air control settings
• Maximum fuel load guidelines

Following manufacturer recommendations is a key part of ongoing fireplace safety.

Final Thoughts

Preparing your hearth for  heating season helps ensure safer fires, better performance, and fewer surprises during the coldest months. A thorough chimney cleaning checklist combined with routine inspections and proper fuel use will keep your home warm and worry-free all winter.

If you need help with chimney components, maintenance tools, or safety accessories, our certified hearth professionals are ready to help. Contact us at 888-418-0005 or info@woodstovepro.com.

Author: Sean Summers, NFI Master Hearth Certified Technician – WoodstovePro.com

Installing a wood stove is one of the most efficient ways to heat your home—but where you place it plays a major role in how well it performs. The right stove location can help heat travel more evenly, reduce cold spots, and maximize the comfort of your living space. Whether you’re planning a new installation or upgrading an older unit, here’s how to determine where to put a stove in your home for the best heat distribution.

1. Choose a Central Stove Location Whenever Possible

For homes using a wood stove as a primary or supplemental heating source, installing the stove near the center of your home helps distribute heat more evenly. A centrally placed stove allows warm air to radiate outward into surrounding rooms, creating balanced home heating zones without large temperature differences.

Placing the stove in a large, frequently used living area—such as the family room or great room—also ensures the heat is directed where it’s needed most.

2. Take Advantage of Natural Air Flow Paths

Warm air naturally rises, while cooler air sinks. Installing your stove on the main level of a multi-story home allows heat to travel upward through hallways, stairways, and open loft spaces. If your home is open-concept, the stove will have an even easier time distributing heat.

Avoid placing your stove in tight corners or enclosed rooms where heat cannot travel easily. Maximizing airflow is essential to getting the most out of your wood stove.

3. Consider Your Home Heating Zones

Think about how your home is divided into natural heating zones. Bedrooms, living spaces, and basements all have different heating needs. A stove placed on the main level will primarily heat the living areas and upper floors, while a stove in the basement may heat more slowly but deliver long-lasting warmth as heat rises.

Choosing the right location depends on where your family spends most of its time and which areas need steady heat.

4. Avoid Installing the Stove Near Drafty Areas

The worst locations for wood stoves are spots with high air movement—like near exterior doors, uninsulated walls, or drafty windows. Cold drafts can reduce the stove's efficiency, create uneven heating, and make the space around the stove feel cooler than it should.

Always choose a well-insulated part of the home, ideally away from major air leaks.

5. Plan for Required Clearances and Safety Requirements

Your stove location must meet all clearance and installation codes. This includes:

• Proper clearances from walls and furniture
• A non-combustible hearth pad
• Safe flue pipe routing
• Access for loading wood and maintaining the stove

Sometimes the best heating location isn’t feasible due to structural or venting restrictions. A certified installer can help determine the safest option without sacrificing performance.

6. Make Sure Heat Can Reach the Rooms You Use the Most

If certain rooms tend to stay cooler, consider whether the stove has a clear heat path to those areas. Open doors, fans, and natural convection can help carry heat, but poor placement can trap warmth in one part of the home.

Many homeowners use quiet, energy-efficient fans to help move warm air down hallways or into adjacent rooms for balanced heat.

7. Think About Daily Convenience

A wood stove needs regular tending, cleaning, and ash removal. Make sure your chosen location:

• Is easy to access
• Has room for bringing in firewood
• Offers space for tools, log carriers, and a safe loading area

Convenience matters when you’re using a stove every day in the heating season.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right location for your wood stove can dramatically improve comfort, efficiency, and ease of use. The best approach is to think about your home’s natural airflow, heating zones, and safety requirements before deciding where to put a stove in your home.

Author: Sean Summers, NFI Master Hearth Certified Technician – WoodstovePro.com

Pellet stoves are clean-burning, efficient, and easy to use—but like any heating appliance, they need regular care to keep them performing safely and reliably. Whether you're new to pellet heating or just want to brush up on best practices, this guide answers the most common homeowner questions about pellet stove cleaning, auger maintenance, and routine upkeep.

Let’s begin:

Q: How often should I clean my pellet stove?

Most pellet stoves need light daily or weekly cleaning and a deep cleaning every 1–2 tons of pellets burned.

Daily or weekly tasks include:

• Emptying the ash pan
• Scraping the burn pot
• Wiping the glass

Deep cleaning should involve:

• Cleaning heat exchange tubes
• Vacuuming ash traps
• Inspecting gaskets
• Checking the auger system

If you use your stove as a primary heat source, you may need to clean it more frequently.

Q: How do I clean my pellet stove properly?

A proper pellet stove cleaning includes:

1. Turning off the stove and letting it cool
2. Emptying the ash pan
3. Scraping carbon buildup in the burn pot
4. Vacuuming ash inside the firebox (with an ash-rated vacuum)
5. Cleaning the heat exchanger
6. Removing soot from the venting pipe
7. Checking door and ash pan gaskets

Always use a metal ash vacuum—not a household vacuum—to avoid fire hazards.

Q: What is auger maintenance and why is it important?

The auger feeds pellets from the hopper into the burn pot. If it becomes clogged or dirty, your stove may fail to ignite or burn inconsistently.

Basic auger maintenance includes:

• Emptying the hopper regularly
• Removing fines (pellet dust)
• Checking for buildup around the auger
• Ensuring smooth pellet feeding

If you hear grinding noises or inconsistent feeding, your auger may need lubrication or cleaning.

Q: Why does my stove produce soot or a dirty burn?

Soot or dark flames usually mean:

• Poor-quality pellets
• A dirty burn pot
• Clogged air inlets
• Incorrect draft settings

Switching to high-quality pellets and keeping your burn pot free of carbon buildup will dramatically improve your burn quality.

Q: How often should I have my pellet stove professionally serviced?

Even with good homeowner maintenance, a pellet stove should be inspected and cleaned by a professional once a year. A technician will:

• Deep-clean internal components
• Check wiring connections
• Test sensors and vacuum switches
• Inspect the auger motor
• Examine the venting system

Q: Why is pellet quality so important?

Low-quality pellets create more ash and produce uneven burns. High-quality pellets:

• Reduce clogs and buildup
• Improve heat output
• Extend the time between cleanings
• Protect the auger and burn pot

Look for pellets with a low moisture content.

Q: When should I replace gaskets, sensors, or other parts?

Replace parts when you notice:

• Door gasket leaks or is loose-fitting
• Slow or failed ignition
• Intermittent auger feeding
• Excessive smoke during startup
• Poor burn quality

Final Thoughts

Proper pellet stove maintenance ensures safer operation, better heat output, and fewer breakdowns—especially during peak heating months. With routine cleaning and occasional professional service, your stove will run smoothly for many years.

Have questions about pellet stove parts, cleaning tools, or troubleshooting? Contact our certified hearth experts at 888-418-0005 or info@woodstovepro.com.

By: Sean Summers, NFI Master Hearth Certified Technician – WoodstovePro.com

A properly functioning chimney liner is one of the most important (and often overlooked) components of your home’s venting system. Whether you have a wood stove, gas appliance, pellet insert, or masonry fireplace, the chimney liner protects your home from heat transfer, improves draft, and helps move harmful combustion gases safely outdoors.

Over time, however, chimney liners wear out—creating serious safety risks if not addressed. Here’s everything homeowners should know about the different chimney liner types and how to tell when it’s time to replace them.

Types of Chimney Liners

1. Stainless Steel Chimney Liners

Stainless steel liners are the most popular and versatile choice for modern chimney systems. They’re compatible with wood, pellet, gas, and oil appliances and offer excellent durability and heat resistance.

• 304 stainless steel liners are ideal for wood and pellet appliances because of superior corrosion resistance.
• 316 stainless steel is commonly used for gas and oil appliances due to its ability to withstand acidic condensates.

Stainless steel liners are easy to install in existing chimneys and are often the go-to solution for older homes.

2. Clay Tile Liners (Terracotta)

Clay tile liners have been used in masonry chimneys for decades. They are inexpensive and long-lasting, but they have limitations:

• They can crack from heat shock
• They’re vulnerable to moisture
• They are difficult and expensive to repair once damaged
  
  

Clay liners are generally acceptable for open fireplaces but are not recommended for modern stoves or inserts without an additional stainless steel liner.

3. Aluminum Chimney Liners

Aluminum liners work for certain low-heat gas appliances, but they are not approved for wood or pellet burning. They also have lower resistance to corrosion and physical damage. Aluminum liners are typically used only in older homes with low-BTU gas furnaces or water heaters.

4. Cast-in-Place Chimney Liners

These are formed by pouring a cement-like insulating material inside the chimney to create a new liner. They offer excellent structural support and insulation, but installation is labor-intensive and expensive. They are most commonly used in historic homes where preserving the structure is important.

Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Chimney Liner

1. Cracks, Gaps, or Erosion Inside the Chimney

Any physical damage—whether in tile, stainless steel, or cast-in-place liners—can allow heat or carbon monoxide to escape into your home. A professional inspection can reveal cracks that aren’t visible from the fireplace opening.

2. Rust, Corrosion, or Flaking Metal

For stainless steel liners, rust or corrosion is a clear sign of acidic damage or moisture exposure. As the liner weakens, it becomes unsafe and must be replaced.

3. Excessive Creosote Buildup

If your liner is collecting creosote rapidly—even after regular cleaning—it may indicate poor draft or liner deterioration. This is especially dangerous for wood-burning appliances.

4. Smoke Backdrafting or Poor Draft

If smoke enters the room when you open the stove or fireplace door, or if the fire struggles to draw properly, your liner may be blocked, undersized, or damaged.

5. Upgrading or Installing a New Appliance

Many new wood stoves, pellet stoves, inserts, and gas units require a properly sized stainless steel liner to work effectively and safely. If your chimney still has an old tile liner, an upgrade may be necessary.

6. Creosote Odor or Staining on Walls or Ceiling

Smoky or musty odors may indicate cracks or gaps in the liner, allowing combustion byproducts to leak into the home.

Final Thoughts

A healthy chimney liner is essential for safe, efficient heating—no matter what type of fuel you burn. If your liner is damaged, outdated, or incompatible with your current appliance, replacing it will dramatically improve draft, reduce safety risks, and extend the life of your chimney system.

Not sure what type of liner you need—or whether it’s time to replace your existing one? Our certified hearth professionals are here to help. Contact us at 888-418-0005 or info@woodstovepro.com for expert advice and high-quality chimney liner solutions.

Author: Sean Summers, NFI Master Hearth Certified Technician – WoodstovePro.com

If you have an existing masonry fireplace and want to upgrade its performance, two popular options rise to the top: gas logs and gas inserts. Both offer convenience, cleaner burning, and instant ambiance compared to wood fires — but they serve very different purposes. The right choice depends on how you use your fireplace, how much heat you want, and the overall look you’re going for.

Here’s a practical guide to help you decide between gas logs and gas inserts, along with the key differences every homeowner should know.

What Are Gas Logs?

Gas logs are decorative burners with ceramic logs designed to mimic a real wood fire. They install directly into your existing open fireplace and provide beautiful flame ambiance with minimal effort.

Pros of Gas Logs:

• Easiest and quickest installation
• Most natural-looking flames
• Great for ambiance and occasional use
• Lower upfront cost
• Works with natural gas or propane

Things to Consider:

• Provide limited heat compared to inserts
• Vent-free options heat more, but may not be allowed in all areas
• Less efficient than enclosed systems
  
  

Best for: Homeowners who want the look of a real fire without the work of burning wood.

What Are Gas Inserts?

Gas inserts are self-contained, sealed combustion units that slide into your existing fireplace opening. They use a direct-vent system to bring in outside air for combustion and exhaust safely outdoors.

Pros of Gas Inserts:

• Extremely efficient heating (often 70–85%+)
• Controlled, thermostat-ready heat
• Sealed glass front increases safety
• Reduces drafts from an old fireplace
• Modern styling and LED ember options
  
  

Things to Consider:

• Higher initial cost than gas logs
• Installation requires a venting kit
• Flames look slightly more controlled than open fireplaces
  
  

Best for: Homeowners who want a reliable, high-efficiency heat source — not just ambiance.

Key Differences at a Glance

How to Choose the Right One

Choose gas logs if you:
✔ Want the open-fireplace look
✔ Prioritize ambiance over heat
✔ Want the lowest-cost upgrade
✔ Use your fireplace occasionally

Choose gas inserts if you:
✔ Want serious supplemental heat
✔ Want better efficiency and lower heating bills
✔ Prefer a sealed, safe, clean-burning system
✔ Use your fireplace regularly

Final Thoughts

Both gas logs and gas inserts can transform your fireplace — but they serve different needs. Gas logs maximize ambiance with open flames, while gas inserts deliver powerful heat and modern efficiency.

Still unsure which option is best for your home? Our certified hearth experts can help you compare models, venting requirements, and installation steps. Contact us at 888-418-0005 or info@woodstovepro.com for personalized recommendations.

By: Sean Summers, NFI Master Hearth Certified Technician – WoodstovePro.com

Fireplaces and stoves provide warmth, comfort, and a welcoming focal point in any home. But just like any heating appliance, they don’t last forever. Over time, components wear out, technology becomes outdated, and efficiency declines. 

Whether you have a wood stove, pellet stove, gas insert, or traditional masonry fireplace, knowing when it’s time to replace your system is essential for safety and performance.

Here are the most common signs that your fireplace or stove may need an upgrade:

1. Your Appliance Is More Than 15–20 Years Old

Most wood stoves and fireplaces last about two decades with proper care—but older units can be dramatically less efficient. Modern EPA-certified stoves produce more heat using less fuel and generate fewer emissions. If your appliance is approaching the 20-year mark, it may be time to consider a safer, cleaner, more efficient replacement.

2. You Notice Cracks, Warping, or Rust

Visible damage is one of the biggest red flags. Cracked firebricks, warped metal, rusted components, and loose connections can all lead to unsafe operation. These issues reduce heat output and can allow smoke, sparks, or even carbon monoxide to escape into your home.

3. It’s Getting Harder to Start or Maintain a Fire

If your wood or pellet stove isn’t burning as well as it used to—struggling to stay lit, producing smoky fires, or requiring constant adjustments—it may indicate draft issues, internal deterioration, or outdated combustion technology. Newer appliances are designed to burn hotter, cleaner, and more consistently.

4. Your Energy Bills Are Rising

A decline in efficiency can cause you to burn more wood or run your gas unit longer just to maintain the same level of heat. Upgrading to a modern high-efficiency stove or insert can significantly reduce fuel costs and improve heat output.

5. There Is Excessive Creosote Buildup

If you’re seeing heavy creosote accumulation despite regular cleaning, your appliance may not be burning efficiently. Poor combustion can become a safety hazard and dramatically increase the risk of chimney fires. This is especially true for older, non-certified stoves.

6. You Want Cleaner Burning or a More Modern Look

Today’s stoves and inserts offer features like automatic combustion control, advanced heat circulation, remote operation, and sleek contemporary designs. Whether you're seeking reduced emissions or a fresh aesthetic, upgrading gives you both style and performance.

7. Your Chimney Professional Recommends Replacement

If an NFI-certified technician recommends replacement, it’s usually for good reason. Internal components, hidden corrosion, or structural issues may not be visible but can still compromise safety.

Final Thoughts

Replacing your fireplace or stove is an investment—but it’s also an opportunity to enhance safety, increase efficiency, lower fuel costs, and upgrade your home’s comfort.

If you’re unsure whether it's time for a replacement, our certified experts at WoodstovePro.com are here to help. Contact us at 888-418-0005 or info@woodstovepro.com for personalized guidance.