A gas fireplace adds warmth, comfort, and style to any home. No messing with logs, no sweeping up ash – just instant heat at the push of a button. But buying one online can be tricky. Get it wrong, and you could end up with the wrong size, an inefficient model, or a unit that doesn’t even work with your home’s setup.
Here’s how to buy a gas fireplace online without making expensive mistakes.
1. Know Your Options
Not all gas fireplaces online are the same. There are three main types:
- Balanced flue: Vents directly outside through a horizontal or vertical flue.
- Conventional flue: Requires a chimney to remove fumes.
- Flueless: Uses a catalytic converter to clean emissions, so no chimney needed.
Before you even look at models, work out which type suits your home. No chimney? That rules out conventional flue models. Want a wall-mounted option? You’ll need a balanced flue or flueless model.
2. Measure Your Space
Size matters. Get a fireplace that’s too small, and it won’t heat your room properly. Too big, and you’ll overheat the space and waste money on gas.
Measure the height, width, and depth of the area where you plan to install it. Check the manufacturer’s recommendations for room size. A fireplace designed for a small room won’t be effective in an open-plan space.
3. Check the Gas Supply
Most gas fireplaces run on either natural gas or LPG (bottled gas). They are not interchangeable. Buy the wrong one, and it won’t work.
Check what type of gas you have at home before you place an order. If you’re unsure, ask your energy provider or a Gas Safe engineer.
4. Choose a Style That Matches Your Home
Gas fireplaces come in a range of designs, from traditional to ultra-modern. Think about what suits your space. A classic log-effect model works well in period homes, while a sleek glass-fronted fireplace complements contemporary interiors.
Decide if you want a hearth-mounted, inset, or wall-hung fireplace. Some models sit flush within an existing fireplace opening, while others mount directly on the wall.
5. Check Efficiency Ratings
A fireplace isn’t just for looks – it should heat your home efficiently. Look at the efficiency rating before you buy.
Higher ratings mean less wasted energy and lower running costs. Aim for a model with at least 75% efficiency if you want effective heating without high bills.
6. Look for Safety Features
A gas fireplace is a heating appliance, so safety matters. Look for these features:
- Oxygen depletion sensor (ODS): Shuts off the gas if oxygen levels drop too low.
- Flame failure device: Cuts gas supply if the flame goes out.
- Glass-fronted design: Reduces heat exposure and improves efficiency.
All gas fireplaces sold in the UK must meet strict safety standards. Check that the model you choose is CE-certified and approved for use in homes.
7. Read Reviews Before Buying
A fireplace might look great in pictures, but how does it perform in real homes? Check customer reviews to see what buyers say about heat output, ease of use, and reliability.
Look for patterns. If multiple reviews mention poor flame control or high gas consumption, it’s a red flag.
8. Consider Installation Costs
Unlike electric fires, gas fireplaces need professional installation. You’ll need a Gas Safe registered engineer to fit and test it.
Check installation requirements before you buy. Some retailers offer installation services, while others leave you to arrange it yourself.
If you’re replacing an old gas fire, you may need a new flue or gas pipework, which adds to the cost.
9. Compare Prices and Delivery Times
Found the perfect fireplace? Now it’s time to shop smart. Compare prices across different retailers. Some offer free delivery, while others charge extra.
Check delivery times too. Some models are in stock for next-day dispatch, while others take weeks to arrive. If you need it quickly, choose a supplier with UK-based stock.
10. Check the Returns Policy
Online shopping always carries some risk. If your fireplace arrives damaged or doesn’t fit, can you return it? Read the retailer’s return policy before ordering.
Some companies offer free returns, while others charge a restocking fee. Make sure you understand the terms before you buy.
Buying a gas fireplace online doesn’t have to be difficult. Get the right type, measure carefully, and check the details before you click ‘buy’. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a stylish, efficient fireplace that heats your home for years to come.
