Let’s face it. Traditional, open-masonry fireplaces just aren’t very efficient. Every minute they burn, these fireplaces can exhaust as much as 300 cubic feet of heated indoor air outside your home, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. That’s 18,000 cubic feet of heated air lost each hour.

What happens as the warm air is leaving? Cold air from windows, doors and other parts of your home are drawn to the fireplace. The room may stay warm, but the rest of your house is actually getting cooler. Your furnace takes notice and works even harder to heat your entire home resulting in high heating costs.

So you might be asking yourself, how can I enjoy our existing fireplaces without suffering from high energy bills and drafty homes? It’s easy… a gas fireplace insert! Inserts fit directly into the opening of existing masonry-built fireplaces and offer enhanced heating performance, style and money-saving efficiency.

By placing a gas fireplace insert into an existing masonry fireplace, you’ll not only update the look of your home, but you’ll also be enjoying a more efficient, clean-burning fire with the flip of a switch. And, it’s faster and less expensive than most people think; just $2,900 covers the average cost of a gas fireplace insert and installation, and the whole process can usually be completed in just a couple hours.

Fireplace inserts come in numerous designs allowing homeowners to find an insert that fits their needs for style and performance. Two popular, best-rated fireplace inserts are the Heat & Glo Cosmo Insert and the Escape insert.

Marvelous & Modern Gas Fireplace Insert: The Heat & Glo Cosmo Insert. This unique gas insert features a delightfully contemporary design, perfect for stylish spaces of all shapes and sizes. A striking reflective, black glass interior and long ribbon flame makes it a standout supplement to any home.

Why we think you’ll love this gas fireplace insert:

• It’s customizable! Select from 5 colored glasses or ceramic stones for a truly unique internal firebox that will perfectly suit your style.
• It works for both large and small openings! This modern gas fireplace insert comes in two sizes to allow for the perfect, snug fit into your existing masonry fireplace opening. The Cosmo-I35 is ideal for larger fireplace openings (23-3/4″ high) and the Cosmo-I30 ideal for smaller fireplace openings (19-1/8″ high).

Refined, Traditional Gas Fireplace Insert: the Heat & Glo Escape. The well-appointed Escape FireBrick insert offers high-efficiency heating and impressive flames. Deluxe features like an illuminated ember bed, accent lighting and full-function remote make this traditional style fireplace insert, best-in-class.

Why we think you’ll love this gas fireplace insert:

• It’s designed to heat better, faster! The Exclusive FireBrick® material provides authentic masonry appearance inside the firebox and allows for fast, powerful heat output.
• It works for both large and small openings! This traditional gas fireplace insert comes in two sizes to allow for the perfect, snug fit into your existing masonry fireplace opening. The Escape-I30B is ideal for a smaller opening and the Escape-I35 is great for a larger opening.

Interested in saving more on your Gas Fireplace? The Energy Trust of Oregon offers some great cash incentives when you install a qualifying Direct-Vent Gas Fireplace in your home. Additionally, the Oregon Department of Energy offers a state tax credit for high-efficiency Direct-Vent gas units you have installed. This includes zero-clearance gas fireplaces, gas fireplace inserts, and gas stoves. Upgrading to a high-efficiency fireplace, especially with the monetary incentives that are currently available, can save lots of energy and reduce your costs.

Energy Trust of Oregon Rebates

To be eligible for the Energy Trust rebates, there are four important requirements to keep in mind when choosing your fireplace. The unit you have installed must: have a Direct-Vent system, be equipped with an Intermittent Pilot Light (IPI), have a Fireplace Efficiency (FE) rating of at least 70 percent, and be listed as one of the Energy Trust’s qualifying models.

The Energy Trust rebate amount has two tiers, depending on efficiency:

• $250 for units with a 70% – 74.9% Fireplace Efficiency (FE) rating.
• $350 for units with a 75% or greater (FE) rating.

For example, this Heat n Glo Supreme I30 gas insert (shown right) has an efficiency (FE) rating of 72.7 percent, and qualifies for $250 Energy Trust Rebate, as well as a state tax credit.

Talk with one of our sales representatives to learn more about what fireplaces and stoves qualify for rebates.

Oregon State Tax Credits

Direct-Vent gas fireplaces, inserts and stoves with an efficiency (FE) rating of at least 70 percent also qualify for tax credits through the Oregon Department of Energy. This is another great incentive to install a new and efficient heat source in your home.

The eligibility requirements for the Oregon State tax credits are:

• $350 for units with a 70% – 74.9% Fireplace Efficiency (FE) rating.
• $550 for units with a 75% or greater (FE) rating.

For example, this Quadrafire Sapphire gas stove (shown left) has an efficiency (FE) rating of 76.0 percent, and qualifies for both the $350 Energy Trust of Oregon rebate AND a $550 Oregon Department of Energy state tax credit. That is a $900 value!

Call or stop by our Portland, OR location to speak to a sales representative about these Energy Trust rebates and tax credits, and find a qualifying fireplace or stove that is suitable for your home. You can find location information for our Portland Fireside location here.

We offer professional in-house installation on all of our jobs and our expert sales team can meet you at your home prior to your purchase to make sure that the unit you are looking at is the right fit. It’s also a great way to make sure you are installing a unit that will be both energy-efficient and environmentally friendly. Now is a great time to make the decision to upgrade your old fireplace and take advantage of these savings and incentives.

A zero clearance fireplace is a highly efficient, space-saving option designed to be installed safely in close proximity to combustible materials such as wood framing, drywall, and insulation. Unlike traditional masonry fireplaces, which require significant clearance from surrounding structures, a zero clearance fireplace has superior insulation that allows it to be built directly into walls, making it an excellent choice for both new construction and retrofits.

How Does a Zero Clearance Fireplace Work?

A zero clearance fireplace operates similarly to other gas or wood-burning fireplaces but is specifically engineered for enhanced safety and efficiency. These fireplaces are built with a firebox that remains cool on the exterior while containing and directing heat efficiently inside. This design minimizes heat transfer to surrounding materials, allowing for close installation without the risk of structural damage or fire hazards.

Many modern zero clearance fireplaces also feature advanced venting systems, customizable flame settings, and high-efficiency heat distribution, making them an attractive and practical choice for homeowners looking to enhance both warmth and ambiance in their living spaces.

Does a Zero Clearance Fireplace Need a Chimney?

The necessity of a chimney depends on the type of zero clearance fireplace you install. Wood-burning zero clearance fireplaces typically require a chimney to safely expel smoke and combustion gases. However, gas-powered and electric zero clearance fireplaces often utilize direct vent or vent-free technology, eliminating the need for a traditional chimney.

If you're unsure whether your fireplace setup requires additional venting, consult a professional. Fireside Home Solutions provides expert guidance and installation services—schedule a service appointment to ensure your fireplace is operating safely and efficiently.

Benefits of a Zero Clearance Fireplace

• Flexible Installation: Unlike masonry fireplaces, zero clearance fireplaces can be installed almost anywhere in the home, including small spaces and second-story rooms.
• High Energy Efficiency: These fireplaces are designed to retain and distribute heat effectively, making them a cost-effective heating solution.
• Enhanced Safety: The insulated firebox ensures safe installation near combustible materials, reducing fire hazards.
• Modern Aesthetics: Available in a variety of styles and finishes, zero clearance fireplaces complement any interior design.
• Low Maintenance: Many gas and electric models require minimal upkeep compared to traditional wood-burning fireplaces.

Find the Right Zero Clearance Fireplace for Your Home

If you're considering upgrading your home with a zero clearance fireplace, Fireside Home Solutions offers a wide range of options tailored to your needs. Whether you prefer a sleek, contemporary design or a more traditional aesthetic, our selection of zero clearance fireplaces provides both style and functionality. Explore our collection of zero clearance fireplaces, or visit one of our showrooms to see these fireplaces in action.

What good is a night spent in front of the fire if your fireplace is too dirty to see the flames? Wood-burning fireplaces give off a lot of smoke and soot, which can build up on your glass doors over time. More than likely, you’re going to need something a little tougher than an everyday glass cleaner to get the job done. Here are a few ways to put the sparkle back in your glass doors.

1. Wash With Ammonia.

Make a mixture of slightly diluted ammonia and water. The water helps keep the ammonia from evaporating and makes the job easier. Grab some paper towels, spray the glass, and begin to wipe it clean. It could take a few tries to get the window clear. If you have any spots with a lot of buildup, let the mixture sit for a while. When you’re done, wipe the glass clean with a dry cloth.

2. Fight Ashes With Ashes.

Take an old newspaper or cloth and dampen it. Then, dip the newspaper/cloth in your fireplace ashes and start scrubbing those doors. The ashes help to counteract the leftover residue. Once you’ve scrubbed it clean, grab a clean wet cloth and wipe the glass to remove the ash. You can finish with a spritz of glass cleaner and wipe it dry with a paper towel.

3. Get Down To Business.

If you have a lot of buildup on your glass doors, it may take more work to get it clean. A flat razor blade can remove caked-on deposits, just be careful not to scratch the glass. After you’ve scraped them clean, spray the doors down with a solution of white vinegar and water and wipe down with a paper towel or clean cloth.

These tips can keep your wood-burning fireplace doors looking like new. If you’re looking for a fireplace upgrade or just something a little lower maintenance, the experts at Fireside Home Solutions can help find the perfect fireplace for your lifestyle.

The little flame you see in your gas fireplace after you have turned it off is called a pilot light. A Standing Pilot Light runs constantly, whether your fireplace is on or off.

“It’s the middle of summer, why do I feel heat from the front of my fireplace?” “Oh well…it’s only a little flame, it’s no biggy.”
Well that “no biggy” is costing you between $12 and $15 a month. Over the course of a year that’s up to $180, nearly two Benjamins!
Most of today’s gas direct vent fireplaces have an innovation called intermittent pilot ignition.

What that means is that you don’t have a pilot light burning in your fireplace year-round. When your fireplace is off, it’s all off. No gas is being consumed at all. Saving energy and saving you money. When you turn your fireplace on, a spark ignites a temporary pilot flame, which in turn lights up your fire. If you want to turn off your standing pilot light, learn more here about how to turn off the pilot light.

The intermittent pilot system, along with direct vent sealed combustion is one of the reasons that gas fireplaces are much more efficient now than they were only a few years ago.

So much so, that in some areas utility partners even offer rebates for replacing older fireplaces with newer more efficient ones; up to $250 in fact. That plus your savings over burning a pilot year around can add up to a $430 savings in the first year! If that isn’t enough incentive for you, some manufacturers offer instant online coupons as well. Typically around $100, but I’ve seen them as high as $500 depending on the time of year and brand of fireplace.

Check into how you can save money and conserve energy today by stopping by or calling one of our Washington or Oregon showrooms.

That little flame can be a big drain… on your pocket book!

Gas fireplaces are widely considered a safe, reliable, and efficient way to heat your home—especially when they’re properly installed, used as intended, and maintained over time. Modern gas fireplace technology has come a long way, with built-in safety systems designed to protect both your home and indoor air quality.

Need service for your gas fireplace? Connect with Fireside Home Solutions and we'll be happy to lend a hand.

Why Modern Gas Fireplaces Are Considered Safe

The majority of gas fireplaces and gas fireplace inserts installed today are direct vent systems. These are designed as sealed units that operate independently from your home’s indoor air.

Here’s why that matters:

• All combustion air is drawn from outside
• All exhaust gases are vented back outside
• The firebox is completely sealed behind glass

Because the system is balanced and sealed, direct vent gas fireplaces deliver consistent heat while maintaining healthy indoor air quality. This design significantly reduces the risks associated with smoke, fumes, or carbon monoxide entering your living space.

Understanding Fireplace Glass Safety

One of the most important—and often overlooked—safety considerations with gas fireplaces is hot glass.

Direct vent gas fireplaces and inserts use a sealed glass front made from tempered or ceramic glass. During normal operation, this glass can reach temperatures well over 400°F. Touching it can cause serious burns.

What makes this especially important is that:

• The glass can remain dangerously hot for up to an hour after the fireplace is turned off
• Thermostat-controlled fireplaces may shut off automatically, making it less obvious the unit was recently in use

To address this risk, updated safety standards now require many gas fireplaces to include protective barrier screens designed to prevent accidental contact with hot glass.

Safety Standards and Barrier Screens Explained

The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) updated fireplace safety requirements to address hot glass injuries—particularly for children and older adults.

As a result:

• Most direct vent gas fireplaces manufactured since 2015 are required to include a safety barrier
• These barriers are designed to reduce burn risk while still allowing heat and flame visibility

If your fireplace already has a factory-installed safety screen, it’s important to leave it in place. Removing it increases the risk of accidental injury.

If your fireplace does not have a built-in barrier, there may still be options available, including manufacturer-approved retrofit screens or professionally designed protective barriers.

Are Ventless Gas Fireplaces Safe?

This is one of the most common questions homeowners ask: are ventless gas fireplaces safe?

Ventless (also called vent-free) gas fireplaces operate differently than direct vent models. They do not vent exhaust outside. Instead, they are engineered to burn gas very cleanly and release heat directly into the room.

Ventless gas fireplaces include multiple built-in safety features, such as:

• Oxygen depletion sensors (ODS) that automatically shut the unit off if oxygen levels drop
• Strict limits on heat output
• Automatic shutoff controls

When installed according to manufacturer guidelines and local building codes, ventless gas fireplaces are generally considered safe. However, they are regulated differently depending on location and may not be allowed in every state or every room of the home.

Because vent-free fireplaces rely on indoor air, professional guidance is especially important when deciding whether this option is right for your space.

Who Is Most at Risk Around Gas Fireplaces?

While anyone can accidentally touch hot glass, children and older adults are especially vulnerable. For that reason:

• Never leave young children unattended in a room with an active or recently used fireplace
• Educate everyone in the household about hot glass safety
• Use approved barriers or screens whenever possible

These precautions, combined with modern safety standards, go a long way toward preventing injuries.

Added Benefits of Fireplace Safety Screens

Beyond safety, barrier screens offer a few unexpected advantages:

• They reduce glare and reflections on the glass
• They soften the flame appearance, adding visual realism
• They mimic the look of traditional wood-burning fireplace screens

In many cases, safety barriers actually enhance the overall look of a gas fireplace rather than detract from it.

Final Thoughts on Gas Fireplace Safety

So, are gas fireplaces safe?

Yes—when professionally installed, used properly, and equipped with modern safety features, gas fireplaces are a safe and dependable heating option.

Whether you’re considering a direct vent fireplace, a gas insert, or exploring ventless options, the best next step is expert guidance.

At Fireside Home Solutions, our team helps homeowners throughout the Seattle and Portland areas choose gas fireplaces that balance comfort, efficiency, and safety. Visit one of our showrooms or contact us to learn more about gas fireplace options, safety features, and professional installation you can trust.