At aspen Fireplace, we like to communicate with our customers as clear as possible, but there are some important terms to know when researching and purchasing a fireplace or other gas appliance for your home. Use this reference guide of Fireplace terminology to understand exactly what you’re looking for in a fireplace.
B-Vent
A double- wall metal pipe used with range hoods and other appliances to ventilate the gas.
Blower
A motorized fan that circulates air through the fireplace convection air chamber.
British Thermal Unit/ BTU
A unit of measure used to calculate the amount of energy needed to convert 1 pound of water by 1 degree Fahrenheit.
Clearances
The required safe distance between heat sources or flammable objects. For instance, the distance between a stove, fireplace, or chimney and upholstery or fiber carpets.
Direct Vent
A direct line for gasses to be released straight to the outside. No chimney is required when using a direct vent.
Efficiency
The amount of warm air delivered by the fireplace into the room versus the amount of warm air that escapes through the chimney.
Flue
The inner part of the chimney in which gas travels up and out of the fireplace.
A factory created appliance that can be placed directly into an existing fireplace, or can be free standing. It will provide the same amount of heat, with better efficiency.
Modulating Control
An automatic system to regulate the fuel input to the gas fire.
Natural Gas
The gas that burns in a gas fireplace. It is an all-natural, clean burning, fossil fuel that comes into the home via pipeline.
Pilot
The flame that ignites the gas used to start a fire on a gas stove or other gas appliance.
Radiant Heat
Heat that flows from a central point and heats objects it passes along its way.
Thermostat
The digital device that regulates an inside temperature. The thermostat triggers the HVAC unit to start and stop based on pre-set and current temperature.
For questions about fireplace and gas appliance terminology, the professionals at Aspen Fireplace are here to answer your questions. We can also help you select the best fireplace or other gas appliance that is best for you and your family this summer.