There are a number of things to consider when buying a gas fireplace that will make your investment worthwhile--both as a decorative centerpiece and as a heat source. After you decide the size and power of your fireplace, you'll want to choose what kind of venting system it uses, whether it runs off of propane or natural gas, and how it will look with your mantel and hearth. Many people choose a gas fireplace as a secondary heater, reliable even in power outages, or as a beautiful addition that brings romantic flames to a bedroom or living room.

The first important thing to consider when buying a gas fireplace is your source of energy. If your other appliances, like a stove or heater, run off the city's natural gas supply, this might be a good option. Propane gas burns with the same efficiency and ease, but you will need to install a propane tank somewhere on your property. Either of these varieties will come in the same range of heat outputs, represented in BTUs.

Related to power are the heating demands of the selected room. Whether you showcase a large fireplace in a front room or sequester a small one in the master bathroom, when buying a gas fireplace, you'll want to consider the amount of heat you'll require. This will depend on the volume of the room, how well it keeps warmth, and the other sources of heat with which it is equipped. Some people primarily enjoy watching the flickering flames, while others would like a dependable source of heat. You can also hook your gas fireplace to a thermostat to maintain your desired level of coziness, even during a blackout.

There are several different venting options to weigh when buying a gas fireplace. The most common is direct venting, which means you only need a short flue to bring in fresh air from outside and return the spent air to the exterior. These are efficient and easy to install. Ventless gas fireplaces allow you to mount a fireplace on an interior wall and let it vent into the room. Old-fashioned "up-vent" fireplaces use entire chimneys as their flue.

You may already have an older wood-burning fireplace or stove in your home. Another option to consider when buying a gas fireplace is to merely purchase a gas insert. This will use the body and chimney of your existing fireplace, but add a glass front and all the necessary plumbing so that it runs off of gas. Freestanding stoves do not incorporate a flat-faced glass front like a built-in, but they can also be outfitted with gas. Whatever kind you select, make sure to test the height and look of the flames, as well as accessories like glowing coals or ceramic logs so you'll be satisfied with the impact.